Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has commented on the significant fee the Bhoys have shelled out to bring Adam Idah back permanently.
The Republic of Ireland international returns to the picture for a sum of £9.5 million inclusive of add-ons. His former club, Norwich City, also retained a 15% sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
Intriguingly, the Canaries aren’t the only club to benefit from the deal. Irish side College Corinthians have earned just under £700,000 with the transfer now finalised, though it will be paid in stages.
Despite the small print dominating the headlines, Idah has earned his move to the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. His nine goals in 19 appearances on loan were pivotal in the Bhoys claiming a domestic double.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of Celtic’s Premier Sports Cup tie against Hibernian this weekend, Rodgers has addressed the fee in question and signalled his excitement at the arrival.
Brendan Rodgers on Adam Idah’s Celtic return and fee
Rodgers explained when questioned on Idah’s arrival [Celtic FC YouTube]: “As if by magic! I’m absolutely delighted; people talk about transfer fees and everything else; this is a guy who paid that last year. I’m delighted for him because I think that he’s got huge potential. He showed that last season, and if ever I was so relaxed on a signing, it was this one here because I knew what his talent is.
“What you never know sometimes in recruitment, and you really understand it and know it until you come in, is the mentality of a player.
“I think what I’ve seen from him in my time here is that he had proven to me that he has that big-game mentality, big-club mentality, so I wanted to do everything I can and I thank the board for reaching out and getting Adam here because I think that over the next two to three years, he can really flourish and show all the quality that he has.
“He’s in an environment where he’ll improve; he’s shown that he can deal with pressure and play big moments, and I’m really excited for him and the Celtic supporters and obviously for the team that we’ve got someone back that can really help us be successful going forward.”
Adam Idah now has the floor to succeed at Celtic
Expectant eyes will be on Idah this weekend if he makes his second debut for the club against Hibernian, which may be a possibility amid Kyogo Furuhashi’s shoulder trouble, making the Japan international a doubt for the clash.
Nevertheless, the Corkonian has already proved himself at Celtic, settling into his new environment in no time at all last term and delivering several pivotal strikes along the way, such as his doubles at Hibernian and Motherwell.
Goals against Rangers at Ibrox and Hampden cemented his status as the man for the big occasion, but the task now is to prove he has the credentials to supersede Furuhashi by taking the number one striking jersey.
Both players will be given countless opportunities across the season to influence games for Celtic. Their presence creates a selection dilemma any manager would love to have.
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