In what has been an incredibly busy day at the Oval Glentoran has announced two high profile new full international signings, five new contracts or extensions, and a departure from the club.
Dayle Coleing
After widespread media speculation, the signing of Dayle Coleing has been confirmed. Dale (24) is a goalkeeper, signed from Europa FC in his native Gibraltar. Dayle is currently the regular goalie for his full international team. The Glens beat off competition from teams in Spain’s Segunda B Division for a player widely reckoned to have a great future for club and country.
Gael Bigirimana
Despite being just 26, midfielder Gael has vast experience in England and Scotland where he has made over 160 appearances in the top 3 divisions in England and the Scottish Premiership. This includes 24 senior appearances for Newcastle United in the English Premiership. His other clubs were Coventry City, Motherwell and Hibernian. Gael has 13 full international caps for Burundi, including appearances in the finals of the African Cup of Nations
Contract extensions
Following our recent success in the Sadler’s Peaky Blinder Irish Cup Final, the following players have signed new contracts with the club: Elliott Morris, Ciaran O’Connor, Steven Gordon and Keith Cowan. Glentoran Academy graduate Mal Smith has signed an extension to his existing contract.
Cameron Stewart has also signed a new contract following his full recovery from the injury he sustained last Christmas. All these players have been added to our Europa League Squad.
Elvio Van Overbeek
Elvio has left Glentoran to return to his native Holland, following a successful season in East Belfast. Mick McDermott said of Elvio: “Elvio has decided to return to Holland. Throughout his time at the Oval he has been a top professional and a special person who we will all miss at Glentoran. He contributed to our success this year in a big way. We will welcome him back at any time and wish him every success in his life and career.”
Watch out for full interviews with Dayle, Gael and Mick on GlensTV over the next few days.