Premiership

SHAY McCARTAN SIGNS FOR GLENTORAN

03 Aug 2021
football
© Brian Little/PressEye Shay McCartan
Glentoran have announced the signing of former Northern Ireland international Shay McCartan from Ballymena United.
 
McCartan, 27, makes the switch to the Oval after spending last season with the Sky Blues for whom he bagged 21 goals from 40 appearances across all competitions.
 
Prior to returning to these shores McCartan enjoyed a lengthy career in England which included spells with Burnley, Accrington Stanley, Lincoln City and Bradford City while he was also capped at senior international level against New Zealand and Costa Rica in 2017/18.
 
Speaking about the move, the Newry man told the official Glentoran website: "Once I spoke to Mick (McDermott) and Paul (Millar) and heard the ambitions of the club, I absolutely knew it's something I want to be part of. When I played against the Glens last season it was obvious they were a good team and now I want to play a part in taking things to the next level.
 
"I’m really looking forward to playing in front of big crowds at the Oval. It's an iconic ground and I was always very conscious of it every time I was going to the airport to go back to England. I can guarantee the Glentoran fans that I’ll work hard for the team and make sure I play my part in bringing a lot more success to the club.”
 
And Glentoran boss Mick McDermott followed by saying: "I have always said that if good players become available, Glentoran will be in that market. 
 
"Shay has shown his qualities across multiple seasons in England and last season at Ballymena. There is no doubting his talent. He will definitely become a key member of our team."