Glentoran manager Declan Devine has been named the Northern Ireland Football Writers’ Association (NIFWA) Manager of the Month for January, securing the accolade for the second consecutive month after leading his side through an unbeaten start to 2025.
Devine’s side delivered a six-match unbeaten run in January, which included a league victory over Loughgall and a dramatic County Antrim Shield triumph, edging Larne 5-4 on penalties after a tense final.
Meanwhile, commanding victories over Ballymena United and Crusaders ensured Glentoran’s place in the BetMcLean Cup Final, while hard-fought wins against Harland & Wolff Welders and Linfield secured progress to the Clearer Water Irish Cup Quarter-Finals.
The January transfer window also saw Devine reinforce his squad, bringing in Nathaniel Ferris, Joe Thomson, Christie Pattisson, Ciarán Coll, and Shane McEleney - further strengthening his side following last summer’s significant squad overhaul.
Devine said: "It's brilliant to win this award twice in-a-row because it means the team is doing well. We had a fantastic month in both the cup competitions and in the league. Winning the County Antrim Shield final against Larne was a special night that will live long in the memory.
"The players have shown great courage in the big games. They're not afraid to go toe-to-toe with the best players in the league. We're in good form at the moment, but we need to maintain for the rest of the season so we can compete for more silverware."