Glentoran have announced the departure of first team coach Kieran Harding. It brings to an end his four-and-a-half-year involvement with the club.
Harding joined the Glens in 2018 as assistant manager to Ronnie McFall. He remained in the post following the arrival of Mick McDermott and Paul Millar in 2019.
McDermott praised Harding for the "important role" he played in Glentoran's transition from a part-time club to its current professional status.
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“Kieran was at the club prior to my arrival, and he has played an important role during our transition from a part-time club to where we are today. I have known Kieran since I took my first coaching badges with the IFA in the 90’s and have nothing but respect for him," McDermott told the club's website.
"He has performed multiple roles as part of our First Team staff and always acts in a highly professional manner. Kieran's work responsibilities as a senior business leader have impacted on his ability to commit to a full-time football environment, which continues to evolve at Glentoran with every season.
"Kieran will now focus on his role within the business community and as a Coach Educator with the Irish FA. I personally thank him for his support and professionalism and without doubt - he will always be welcome at the Oval.
"Thanks Kieran."
Harding spoke of the transformation Glentoran had enjoyed in recent times, starting with former boss McFall's arrival to "stabilise things" back in 2019.
“Glentoran has been transformed as a club since I joined four and a half years ago with Ronnie McFall to help stabilise things on the pitch. I have enjoyed every minute of my time here with Ronnie, Gary Smith and now with Mick," Harding added.
"The subsequent investment and transformation to a full-time club has been exciting and will without doubt bring much more success to the club and its fans in the near future. Regretfully I am unable to commit the time required to be part of that future success.
"I want to record my thanks to the fans, the Board, Ronnie, Gary, Mick, the staff and in particular the players who have made my time here memorable, on occasion challenging but nevertheless successful. Finally I want to wish all associated with Glentoran best wishes for future.”
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