Grant made an immediate impact in his first spell with the Club when he initially came on loan from Preston North End at the start of the 1996-1997 season before making the move permanent in January 1997. His winning goal against Cliftonville in the Irish Cup Final that year sealed his place in the hearts of the Glenavon fans.

“It was unbelievable playing at Windsor Park in front of a big crowd and to win the Irish Cup in my first season in the Irish League and then to play in Europe and score against Legia Warsaw was a dream come true,” said Tony.

“I’ve always felt a great affinity for this club and the people here and I think I played some of the best football of my career with Glenavon. I had the opportunity to stay with Drogheda or to move to other Eircom League sides but I wanted to come back to Glenavon as, with the ambition shown by the new board and the management team, the club is definitely going in the right direction and I’m sure I can make an impact here. Stevie and Alan have put together a good squad that will challenge and hopefully push on in the new League and be challenging at the top end.

“I was pretty young when I was first at the Club but I’ve gained a lot of experience since, playing games in Europe and with some of the top Eircom League sides, Shamrock Rovers, Bohemians and Drogheda. The Drogs have 26 full time professionals and it’s a very competitive setup. I’ve always been dedicated and disciplined and determined to be the best that I could be. Glenavon gave me the chance in 1996 and I grabbed it with both hands. I may not be a prolific goal scorer but I can also create chances for others. I’m fit and I feel there’s another good 3 or 4 years in me and I can’t wait to get started.”