Glentoran legend answers 'big season' question as he offers firm title verdict

1 month ago 519

They already have the County Antrim Shield in their silverware cabinet and are in the final of the BetMcLean Cup. They are also one of the favourites for the Irish Cup and sit second in the Irish Premiership.

Things are on the rise at Glentoran, but what would constitute a good season for Declan Devine's side?

Oval legend Paul Leeman believes Devine has transformed the fortunes of his former club. And he hopes there is more to come from the current squad as they target more trophies, and European qualification.

Back in November the crisis clouds were hovering above Mersey Street. A 2-0 defeat to Portadown heaped more pressure on Devine.

But since that mediocre performance, Glentoran have gone on a mesmerising 15-game unbeaten run across all competitions.

Asked what would be a good season for the Glens, Leeman told the BBC: "I think when you look at where Glentoran were around October. It was doom and gloom at the Oval and Declan Devine was under a bit of pressure.

"He has turned this season around, and if he can finish second and get automatic European qualification, and maybe win one of the other two cups they're involved in, I think that would be a massive season for Glentoran.

"It would really lay down a marker for next season and give them that confidence. And they will have to go out and challenge for the league championship.

"But there is still a lot of football to be played this season. I like what Declan is saying, it is one game at a time and he's not getting carried away.

Photo showing Paul Leeman

Paul Leeman coached at Glentoran under Gary Smyth

"Glentoran teams of the past got carried away after winning four, five, six games on the bounce. This team isn't. I like all the things Declan is doing and saying, and everything that is happening at Glentoran right now."

As for this season's title race, Leeman believes it will take a miracle for any club to catch Linfield. The Blues went into Saturday's game against Loughgall 17 points clear at the top of the Premiership.

"I don't see Linfield losing the league from the position they're in now. They would have to crumble and the other teams would have to win every game," Leeman said.

"I think Glentoran are their closest competitors at this moment in time. The Glens have a really tough run of games coming up. They have Ballymena away, Larne again, have to go to Cliftonville. Some really tough games.

"Somewhere along the way you will drop points. You heard Declan Devine saying tonight they've only got one fit striker. All these things come into play. Injuries and suspensions.

"So it will be very difficult for the chasing pack to catch Linfield who have got consistency which they have shown throughout the season.

"For me, it's over."

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Source: www.belfastlive.co.uk
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