Former Scotland defender and current Swansea manager Russell Martin has explained that after speaking to Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou, there was only one destination for Matt O’Riley.
Former England youth international O’Riley, wanted by a host of clubs this season, is something of a coup for the Hoops despite having played in League One. Eligible for Norway and Denmark, O’Riley had clubs including PSV Eindhoven and Liverpool interested in his services.
According to Russell Martin, though, who was keen to bring O’Riley to Swansea City, O’Riley was sold on Ange Postecoglou’s tactics. After speaking to the passionate Celtic manager, there was only really one choice for the ex-Fulham talent.
Martin said [The Sun]: “He wanted to play in a team that dominates the ball, where he can flourish and excel, so I don’t think he’d have jumped in this window for any team.
“When I found out about Celtic I spoke to him and he was really keen because of the size of the club and the way they play.
“He was really impressed with the new manager too. He takes all of that into account. We were never in the battle to sign him. I’d have loved to get him, but it wasn’t an option for us financially.”
Exciting talent Matt O’Riley could get Postecoglou nod for Celtic debut tomorrow
Given our struggles for match-fit midfielders, Matt O’Riley could face a proverbial baptism of fire at Tynecastle tomorrow.
The Bhoys head to Edinburgh to face Robbie Neilson’s side, missing Yosuke Ideguchi, Callum McGregor, Tom Rogic and David Turnbull.
So, O’Riley could line up in a significantly unusual-looking midfield trio very soon. But he’ll be absolutely raring to go.
His form in League One – 7 goals and 6 assists for MK Dons [Transfermarkt] – suggests there’s a player ready to go for a testing debut at Tynecastle. With Hearts looking for revenge after a loss at Celtic Park, it should be a game with plenty of needle.
However, Ange Postecoglou has built a squad that’s more than capable of fighting for each other and handling themselves. Given O’Riley’s enthusiasm to get involved at Celtic, and his incredible work ethic, he should fit in absolutely fine.
O’Riley eluded Swansea City, European powerhouses and Premier League clubs to play for Celtic and Ange Postecoglou. Tomorrow, we’ll likely see what he’s all about.
And, foremost, what Ange saw in him to convince him of a move to Paradise.
Read more: Hearts fans set to leave Robbie Neilson embarrassed after his Celtic ticket comments
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