Investors’ money is raising standards, says Crusaders boss Stephen Baxter

Stephen Baxter has welcomed the finances that have been injected into Irish League football

Crusaders manager Stephen Baxter believes the Irish League is benefitting from outside investment — but he’s certainly not envious of what is going on at other clubs.

Although Larne and Glentoran have been restructured after being bought over in recent years, with Carrick Rangers and Coleraine about to go down a similar route, Baxter admits it’s all good for the game. However, he’s not jealous in any shape or form.

Ahead of tonight’s Sports Direct Premiership blockbuster against north Belfast ruvals Cliftonville at Seaview, the world’s longest serving boss does stress that financial investment is certainly making it tougher for every club to win the Gibson Cup.

“It’s becoming more difficult to negotiate, there is no question,” says Baxter.

“I’ve said all along, investment is good for the game. When money is coming into the game, it means there is always going to be improvements.

“You already see it in ground improvements and general facilities around different stadiums. It makes it more appealing for spectators, which means a growth in numbers, which we’ve already seen this season.

“It also means there are better players also coming to the League — I’m certainly a big fan of that. If certain clubs benefit from that investment, then they are doing something very positive behind the scenes to move their club forward.

“I’m all for that. I never look enviously at any other club. In my opinion, you look after your own boat; get on with what you do and manage what you have. Everything will look after itself.

“The European money is also a big benefit, but it’s all about how you spend it; where you invest it and how you invest it. It does