Fri 18 Sep 2026, 4:00
James Douglas is determined to establish himself in the Glentoran side after forcing his way back into the first-team picture this season.
The 19-year-old has produced a series of encouraging performances during a difficult opening to the campaign, having found regular opportunities harder to come by last season.
Douglas admits being out of the team was challenging but says that experience has strengthened his resolve to make the most of every opportunity he receives.
“It’s good to be getting back involved and to feel part of things again,” said the midfielder.
“Obviously, the results haven’t been good enough, but on a personal level it has been good to be back in the team.
“I’m extremely determined to keep my place. It’s tough when you’re not playing, especially when you’re a full-time footballer because it is everything you work towards every day.
“When the opportunity comes, you have to be ready to take it.”
Douglas retained his place for Tuesday night’s meeting with BoyleSports Premiership leaders Coleraine and delivered another assured performance in midfield.
The Glens appeared to have rescued a point when Jordan Jenkins cancelled out Joe Thomson’s opening goal, only for Lewis McGregor to secure a 2-1 victory for the visitors with a 94th-minute winner.
While disappointed by the result, Douglas believes the performance showed signs of a response from the players.
“It was a tough result to take,” he said.
“There were a lot of positives in the performance and I thought we showed a response, but ultimately we still didn’t get the three points.
“We can take encouragement from parts of the game, but we also know we need to be tighter defensively and make sure those moments don’t continue to cost us.”
Tuesday’s fixture came during an unsettled period for the Club following Declan Devine’s departure, with Tim McCann and Paddy McCourt taking charge of the team.
Douglas believes their familiarity with the players helped provide continuity during preparations for the game.
“Tim and Paddy were here throughout Decky’s time at the Club, so they know every player and everyone knows them,” he added.
“Because of that, it didn’t feel too far removed from what we were used to. They knew the group and were able to keep everyone focused on the game.”
Glentoran now turn their attention to Saturday’s trip to Solitude, where Douglas expects another demanding Premiership contest against Cliftonville.
“Cliftonville are a good team,” he said. “They play good football, they are well coached and they have already produced some strong results this season.
“We know it will be a tough game, but we have to go there ready for that challenge.”
The midfielder also thanked the Glentoran supporters for continuing to stand behind the team and hopes they can be rewarded with a positive result in North Belfast.
“We’re very grateful for the support they have continued to give us,” said Douglas.
“We know we haven’t given enough back to them so far. Hopefully, Saturday can be the start of a new direction.”
For Glentoran fans planning to attend Saturday’s Irish Premiership fixture against Cliftonville at Solitdue, match tickets are available to purchase at: https://cliftonvillefc.ticketco.events/…/cliftonville_v…
