A Premier League legend has made a sensational return to management two years on from his last managerial position with a surprise new club

A Premier League icon has made a sensational return to management. The 54-year-old returns to the dugout two years after his last managerial position.

Everton fan favourite Duncan Ferguson, who clocked up 273 appearances and netted 72 goals over two stints at Goodison Park, has previously managed Forest Green Rovers and Inverness Caledonian Thistle, as well as twice stepping in as caretaker manager of the Toffees in December 2019 and January 2022. 'Big Dunc' will now take charge of Irish Premiership club Glentoran after being announced on a multi-year contract.

Glentoran, who secured third place in the NIFL Premiership last season, have clinched the championship title 23 times (second only to local rivals Linfield on 57), though their most recent triumph was back in 2009.

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Their former manager Declan Devine was given his marching orders last month, prompting Tim McCann and Paddy McCourt to take the reins as temporary joint managers. They've since guided the team to third position in the league, boasting four victories and a draw from six Irish Premiership matches.

Ferguson said: "I am delighted to become manager of Glentoran. This is a big club with a tremendous history, and it is a great opportunity for me. I understand the responsibility that comes with the job.

"I want to win trophies here. Glentoran should be challenging for the title and every cup and shield we enter. I know that success here will be judged on what we win.

"The more I spoke with Ali and Paul (Ali Pour, Glentoran owner, and Paul Millar, sporting director) the more I wanted the job. Their ambition matches my own, and I am looking forward to getting onto the training pitch, working with the players and seeing what we can achieve together.

"I want us to play with confidence, get forward and give the supporters football they enjoy watching. I am thorough in my preparation and expect a lot from my players. It will take time to put my ideas into practice, but I will be clear from day one about how I want us to play and what I expect.

"I have signed for the long term and will be living in Belfast. I want to get to know the people at the Club and in the wider community and become part of life here. That is important to me.

"I have heard so much about the Glentoran supporters and what this Club means to them. We have a responsibility to win games and make them proud. Their support has to be earned, and I am looking forward to getting started."