Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
GORMLEY: WE’RE BACK IN THE TITLE MIX
JOE GORMLEY believes there is “no reason” why Cliftonville can’t muscle in on this season’s title race.
The Reds finished 31 points behind Linfield last term as the Blues lifted the Gibson Cup for the first time in five years. But with new manager Barry Gray at the helm and goal machine Gormley back at Solitude, hopes are high the North Belfast side can challenge for major honours.
“I don’t see why we can’t contest the title this season. There is no reason why we can’t be up there challenging,” Gormley (left) said ahead of today’s opener against Ards.
“We just have to do our talking on the pitch and see where it takes us. Pre-season has been going well, but we just want to get stuck into the league campaign now.
“Barry (Gray) has been great since he came in. Everything has been amazing.”
Gormley left Cliftonville for Peterborough in the summer of 2015 but suffered a cruciate ligament knee injury shortly after signing for the Posh. He admits he had doubts whether he would ever play again, but after signing a pre-contract with the Reds back in January he believes he is “back home” where he belongs.
“After I got injured I honestly didn’t think I would be able to play again,” he added. But I just kept my head and worked hard and managed to get back playing again. “I am enjoying being home, playing football and playing with Cliftonville.”
Meanwhile, Coleraine will open their campaign away to Dungannon Swifts this afternoon, while Glentoran travel to Ballinamallard United.
In the evening kick-off Warrenpoint host Glenavon at Milltown (5.30pm).