Glenavon have completed the signing of former Portadown and Glentoran midfielder Jack Henderson from Annagh United. The 25-year-old's arrival adds proven Championship quality to a squad undergoing significant change after last season's relegation.
Manager Michael O'Connor was quick to welcome his new recruit. "Jack is a very welcome addition to our midfield options," O'Connor said. He highlighted the player's competitive edge, adding, "Jack is a very combative midfielder and he’ll give us a real bite." Henderson arrives with over 100 career appearances, including 51 in the Premiership, and was a nominee for the NIFWA Championship Player of the Year last term.
What experience does Henderson bring?
Jack Henderson brings a wealth of second-tier experience to Mourneview Park. He played 85 times in the Northern Ireland Championship across various clubs, including Bangor and Ballymena United. Last season, he was a mainstay for Annagh United, featuring in 33 matches as they narrowly missed promotion in a play-off defeat to Crusaders. This followed another play-off heartbreak 12 months prior, an 8-3 aggregate loss to Carrick Rangers.
His top-flight career began with a debut for Glentoran in February 2019. Henderson's journey also included a spell playing in America before returning to the domestic game. His nomination for the Championship's top individual award, alongside Stephen Lowry and John Butcher of Limavady United, underscores his consistent performance level.
How does he fit into Glenavon's rebuild?
Henderson's signing is a key part of Michael O'Connor's extensive squad reshuffle this summer. The manager has been forced to rebuild following Glenavon's drop from the Premiership and the recent departure of several players due to injuries and Ben Wilson's move to Brentford. Henderson is one of numerous new faces, joining a list that includes Mark Patton, Brandon Doyle, Ethan Devine, Deaglan Healy, Ryan Waide, Peter Maguire, Lorcan Donnelly, Jude Johnson, and Alex Watson.
The club also confirmed the permanent transfer of Matthew Allen to Dollingstown. This influx of talent aims to provide a fresh start and the depth needed for a promotion push, with the current squad sitting fourth in their league and on a three-game unbeaten run after an opening day 3-1 loss to Ards.
What is Glenavon's current context?
The signing comes as Glenavon prepare for life back in the Championship, aiming to bounce straight back. The club's final Premiership season in 2025 ended with a 9th place finish, securing 36 points from 33 games with a record of 11 wins, 3 draws, and 19 losses. Their recent form was WWLDD, but they finished a considerable 37 points behind champions Larne.
Offensively, they scored 36 goals last season but conceded 57, leaving them with a -21 goal difference. Fans can track the team's progress in the new campaign and view the full squad online. The immediate focus turns to their next challenge, a home fixture against 7th-placed Carrick Rangers on December 19th, 2026, a team Henderson knows well from past play-off battles. You can follow all upcoming matches on the club's fixtures page.
Henderson's proven track record in the division and his combative style are seen as direct answers to the physical demands of a promotion race. His ability to perform in high-pressure play-off situations could be invaluable as Glenavon look to climb the standings and secure a swift return to the top flight.
