GLENTORAN Women have announced the signing of talented young centre back Faye Loughran from Lisburn Rangers.
The 18-year-old Northern Ireland youth international joins the club after three and a half seasons in the Sports Direct Women’s Premiership, where she was an ever-present figure in the Lisburn Rangers defence.
Originally from Dungannon, Loughran came through the ranks at Dungannon United Youth Boys before joining Lisburn Rangers in 2022.
She has also represented Northern Ireland at both U17 and U19 level.
Faye is renowned for her strength in the tackle and ability to play out from the back and has developed into one of the most promising young defenders in the domestic game.
She becomes Glentoran’s second signing of the season following the return of creative midfielder Mia Moore, as Kim Turner strengthens her squad in pursuit of silverware.
The Glens currently sit top of the Sports Direct Women’s Premiership, six points clear of nearest rivals Cliftonville, with Loughran making her debut in Friday night’s high-stakes clash against the title challengers at the Danny Blanchflower Stadium.
Speaking about the move, Faye Loughran said: “I’m absolutely delighted to join Glentoran. It’s a massive club with a winning mentality and I’m really excited to be part of it.
“There’s real quality and depth throughout the squad, and from playing against Glentoran in the past, I know just how good the players are. It’s a top class group and I’m looking forward to challenging myself to earn a place in the team.
“I want to win things here and take my football career to the next level. My goal is to keep pushing myself, improve both personally and professionally, and contribute to the success of the team.
“Working under Kim again was a big factor in my decision. I’ve really enjoyed playing for her at underage level with Northern Ireland. I love her coaching style and how much she invests in developing young players.
“She sets high standards and I know this is the right environment for me to grow and progress.”
Kim Turner, Glentoran Women’s First Team Manager said: “We’re delighted to bring Faye to Glentoran. She’s a player I know well from the U19 international setup and someone I’ve always rated very highly.
“Faye is composed, confident on the ball, and has the physicality and awareness you want in a centre back. She’s also driven and eager to learn and that’s exactly the kind of mentality we value here at the Glens.
“She’s had a fantastic few seasons at Lisburn Rangers and now gets the opportunity to test herself in a highly competitive environment with top players around her. We believe she’s got huge potential and we’re excited to see her grow with us and push on in her football career.”
