Last season’s league runners-up Glentoran Women have appointed former Irish League men’s striker Diarmuid O’Carroll, who won the league with Cliftonville and Crusaders, as manager during the close season.
The east Belfast club have recently re-signed Northern Ireland goalkeeper Emma Higgins, who has previously had spells with Leeds United and Doncaster Rovers Belles as well as playing in Iceland.
The Glens finished 12 points behind the Blues in last season’s title race, but Higgins is confident she and her new teammates can close that gap this campaign.
“Glentoran has always been in my heart, I grew up playing for them and am delighted to be back,” she said.
“Diarmuid has fantastic experience in the men’s game and enjoyed a lot of success. His passion and desire to succeed will hugely benefit the squad, especially the younger girls.
“I am confident that I can help us concede fewer goals this season and close the gap on Linfield. We know Comber Rec are going to come at us in the opening match and we need to be ready for that.”