IT IS A CURT RESPONSE TO SPECULATION

CURTIS ALLEN admits time will tell whether he is part of Glentoran’s longterm plans.

The striker played his first football in over five months on Tuesday night with a cameo appearance in the 4-0 win over Glenavon.

It was only Allen’s fifth appearance of the season following a delayed return from a groin injury sustained last August.

The 31-year-old is out of contract in the summer, and has been linked with a number of clubs during the January transfer window.

Allen revealed the Glens have yet to offer him a new contract, but insists his only focus is on getting back playing football.

“A mate texted me the other day and said it wouldn’t be a transfer window without Curtis Allen being linked with other clubs,” he joked.

“There has been a lot of speculation. The Glens have sort of indicated I am in their plans, but there hasn’t been a contract put on the table.

“I think Coleraine, Glenavon and Ballymena United have all been in contact with the club wanting to offer me a deal.

“For me it is about getting match fit and the rest will take care of itself.”

Allen is hoping to get more game time in Saturday’s Irish Cup sixth round clash with Queen’s University and is determined to play a part in Glentoran’s run-in.

“Every game will be massive from now to the end of the season, and hopefully I can help the club in the league and Irish Cup.”

are hoping to sign Crusaders captain Colin Coates.

It is understood the Lurgan Blues are closing in on a deal for the 34-year-old defender before Friday’s deadline.

And it is believed

Coates’ team-mate Sean Ward is also on Glenavon’s radar.