Ballymena United boss David Jeffrey believes he has secured a “very exciting talent” in versatile Glentoran full-back Mal Smith who has joined the Braid club on loan.
The 20-year-old, who had been linked with a move to the Showgrounds in the summer, has joined the Sky Blues until the end of the season.
Confirming the deal on Ballymena United TV, Jeffrey said: “Mal Smith is a very exciting young talent and he will be in our ranks for the remainder of the season.
“He can play at full-back or he can play in the middle of the park and we’re absolutely delighted to have a young man of such talent coming to join us.
“I’ve got to thank (Glentoran boss) Michael McDermott for making him available. Mal will benefit us and I hope and trust we will benefit him.”
Since making his debut for the Glens in a 5-0 win over Warrenpoint Town in 2019, Smith has scored three goals in 28 appearances for the club.
After the player signed a new two year contract with the Glens last July, McDermott declared: “Mal will go on to be a top player in our league.”
Smith, who came through the ranks of the club’s academy, featured as a substitute in the 2020 Irish Cup final win over Ballymena at Windsor Park.
