Glenavon issue statement after Danny Purkis joins Glentoran

Glenavon have released Danny Purkis from his agreement with the club after the player agreed to make an "acceptable donation" to the club.

The 27-year-old is preparing to return to the Irish Premiership after signing for Glentoran at the weekend.

Purkis left Glenavon last season to rejoin former club East Belfast in the Amateur League, citing family reasons for his decision..

It is understood Purkis signed an agreement at the time which stated he would not feature for any other Irish Premiership side until 2024, which is when his professional deal with Glenavon was due to expire. Glenavon said the club held talks with Purkis last week before reaching a mutual agreement.

The Mournview Park side said in a statement: "Following discussions last week with the player and his representative at their request, it has been mutually agreed that the player will be released from his agreement with Glenavon FC which he signed on leaving the Club in September 2021. In return the player has agreed to make an acceptable donation to Glenavon FC."

Purkis started his career with Glentoran before having spells with clubs including Harland and Wolff Welders, East Belfast and Glenavon.

Speaking at the weekend, Glens boss Mick McDermott said: “We are very happy to get Danny to Glentoran.

"He is a proven goalscorer in the Premier League and is a handful for defenders every time he steps on the pitch. Danny is a player who has worked hard at his game over the past few seasons.

"He has matured as a player, and we know he will definitely strengthen our team. An East Belfast lad coming home!”