Donnelly to join Newington on loan

Jay Donnelly most recent goal for Glentoran came against Crusaders in the BetMcClean Cup last month

Glentoran striker Jay Donnelly will spend the rest of the season on loan at NIFL Championship side Newington.

The former Cliftonville man has scored 78 goals in 179 appearances for the east Belfast club and won the Irish Premiership's Golden Boot award in 2021-22.

The 29-year-old, who joined the club in 2020, has fallen down the pecking order under manager Declan Devine this season with Jordan Jenkins and David Fisher leading the line in the former Derry City boss' 4-3-3 formation.

Glentoran added Loughgall's Nathaniel Ferris, another striker, last week.

"We felt the best decision was to facilitate a loan move that allows [Donnelly] to play regularly and regain his sharpness in a competitive environment," said Devine.

"We know the quality Jay possesses and this loan provides him with the platform to rebuild momentum with consistent game time.

"We have no doubt he will make a real impact at Newington and we wish him all the best for the remainder of the season."

Donnelly's older brother, Ruaridhri, who has since returned to Cliftonville, spent the second half of last season on loan at Newington, also from Glentoran.

Elsewhere on transfer deadline day, Loughgall moved to replace Ferris by bringing former Glentoran striker Kirk McLaughlin to Lakeview Park from Coleraine.