Glentoran financial viability 'more secure' after cash injection

Glentoran chairman Terence Brannigan says the club's financial viability is now more secure following a fresh cash injection by their main sponsors.

Speaking on Thursday, Brannigan wouldn't disclose how much new money was being put in by McLean Bookmakers.

Brannigan denied reports suggesting that the club's debts are now in the region of £1.5m.

However, BBC Sport understands that manager Eddie Patterson and back-room staff have not been paid for November.

Brannigan said that outstanding wages have now all been paid to the players.

This was also confirmed on Thursday by club captain Colin Nixon.

The club's first-team squad refused to train for a time last month after not receiving wages for the previous eight weeks.

Refusing to reveal details of the latest package, Brannigan described this amount as "commercially sensitive" although there is speculation that it is in the region of £50,000.

A new director, Kevin Milhench, has joined the Glentoran board as part of the deal.

The club says he's there to help with the proposed new stadium development project, believed to be in Belfast's Titanic quarter.

Club chairman Brannigan said Thursday's announcement was "great news for Glentoran".

"McClean's financial package and business support, which is ring-fenced to sit outside of the sponsorship agreement, is integral to ensuring a successful resolution to our cash flow management and securing the long-term future of the club," added Brannigan.