Glentoran new boy Aidan Wilson says he was determined to join the Big Two giants after being made feel “wanted” by manager Mick McDermott and his assistant Paul Millar.
Wilson, who arrives in East Belfast from Stephen Baxter’s Crusaders, became the Ovalmen’s second major signing of the summer on Friday afternoon.
The versatile 23-year-old, who can play at centre-back or full-back, joins former Queen of the South and Derry City striker Ally Roy who was snapped up on Wednesday.
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Wilson, who learned his trade as a young player at Rangers, had been weighing up his options but resolved to join the Glens after meeting with McDermott and Millar.
“Mick and Windy (Millar) really wanted me, which is a big thing for me,” he said.
“They gave me a lot of confidence that I was going to come here and do well and I think that’s a big thing for a player, when a manager shows confidence in you.
“That sort of eagerness to get you in is really good. I was a bit uncertain about my future but I’m delighted to finally get it done and be here.”
Wilson, who captained Scotland at U19s level, said the lure of signing full-time with the Glens was also a key factor behind his move.
“I spent a good two years at Crusaders and it was lovely to win the Irish Cup at the end of it,” he told Glentoran’s YouTube channel.
“But I was really looking to get back into proper full-time football and I thought Glentoran was the right place to do that.
“Glentoran is a big club with a big fanbase and arguably the best fans in the league, so I’m really looking forward to getting out on the pitch for the club.
“I’m sure next season will be tough but it’s one I’m looking forward to. I can’t wait until the new season starts.”
Glens boss McDermott said Wilson arrives at the BetMcLean Oval with a “great pedigree” thanks to his 14 years with Rangers from a young age.
The Helensburgh-born defender played twice for the Old Firm giants as a teenager under former boss Pedro Caixinha, making his debut in a 2-1 defeat to Aberdeen at Ibrox in 2017.
“Aidan is a talented and versatile defender who is comfortable in any of the positions along the backline,” said McDermott.
“He is a dedicated professional and having met him I was impressed with his aspirations for his career. He had options and we are happy that he has decided to join our club.”
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