Darren O’Dea discloses how Tommy Burns shaped his career

Add as preferred source on Google

Former Celtic defender Darren O’Dea has paid tribute to the man who shaped his career – former Hoops legend Tommy Burns.

Burns was Celtic’s youth supremo when O’Dea made his breakthrough to the Hoops first-team, and the recently retired centre-back has lauded the former Hoops manager.

“Tommy taught me the principles of being a person and a player” he told the Scottish Sun.

“Tommy taught every young player at Celtic the basics of applying yourself every day.”

“I will always take with me”

“He pushed us all the time, but he wanted us to improve and Tommy’s influence is something I will always take with me.”

It will be interesting to see if Burns’ philosophy about young players is still used at Celtic Park. It would be a smart move if it was.

Methods are still being used

Celtic have brought through a number of young players in recent years. Therefore, the chances are the methods used by Burns are still being taught at the club.

O’Dea had a good career which has just come to an end. Quite possibly the highlight of his time as a player was the opening goal in the 2-0 league cup final victory over Rangers in 2009.

It was unfortunate for O’Dea that his playing career ended with relegation with Dundee. But he scored a goal in a cup final against for Celtic. Not many players can say they did that.