Celtic’s move to sign Matt O’Riley has left Swansea City manager Russell Martin absolutely gutted, the Scottish Sun reports.
The newspaper states that O’Riley has knocked back interest from many Championship clubs, Swansea included. And it’s said that this has left Martin extremely disappointed.
The Scottish Sun believes that Martin was extremely confident of luring the player up a division and into his squad. Instead, O’Riley is set for Celtic Park with the Daily Record claiming the move will be finalised at some stage today.
Martin is already on record bigging up the incoming Celtic talent too. Speaking only last week via Wales Online, Martin said: “Matt O’Riley is a fantastic player but he’s an MK Dons player. He would be a permanent addition that would take a certain level of investment for him to become a player away from MK Dons.
“Before we do any business, especially permanently, it will take investment coming in. But I don’t want to comment on any individual players. He’s a guy I’ve got a lot of respect for as a player and a person.
“I wish him nothing but success in his career. He’s having a fantastic season and lucky for MK Dons they have a player with so much ability.”
Russell Martin clearly wanted Celtic-bound O’Riley in Wales
Well it might not be something he admits, but Martin clearly wanted the Celtic-bound midfielder to be joining his club this month. That much is evident when you look back at his comments last week.
It would be interesting to know how far down the line O’Riley was with any potential move to Wales. Especially if Martin is said to be gutted by Celtic swooping in and taking him instead.
The deal has still to officially be announced by the club. However, any Riley McGree-like controversies don’t look anywhere near likely as things stand.
Martin, of course, is a former Rangers centre-back after playing for them under Graeme Murty. And it’s fair to say his side are struggling the Championship this season as they sit 17th place with very little chance of promotion prospects this term.
You can see why O’Riley believed Celtic to be the bigger project. We have a package that absolutely no club in the Championship can offer. Especially not one struggling to avoid relegation this season.
Hopefully, this is one that is indeed announced today as we look to add to our ranks before Saturday’s Scottish Cup tie at Alloa.
In other news, Airdrieonians boss left eagerly awaiting transfer decision from Celtic man Kerr McInroy
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