New Celtic signing Shane Duffy has officially spoken for the first time since completing a move to Parkhead.
Duffy is currently on international duty with the Republic of Ireland ahead of some crucial Nations League matches. However, the official Ireland twitter account has tweeted an exclusive interview with the new Celtic centre-back.
Brighton have also announced the news on social media, confirming that the player has signed a one-year loan deal with the Scottish champions.
And Duffy was clearly buzzing in his interview on the FAI’s twitter account as he gave former Celt Paddy McCourt a special mention. Speaking after finalising the move, Duffy said the following:
“It’s took a little while to get done, but I’m over the moon. It’s something I’ve always dreamed of doing and to get the chance and for the club to want me – it’s a special moment for me. I’m just really excited to get up there and get going and bring success to the club.
“People will know the connection with Derry and Ireland with Celtic. It’s all we knew growing up. It’s my boyhood club and literally it’s been my dream as a kid to play for Celtic. To go and play for the club that you love is a huge honour, and hopefully I can make them proud.
“Paddy (McCourt) has been great with me. I spoke to him a couple of weeks ago when it was all happening. He had great words to say and with the career he had at Celtic, if I have half of that then I’ll be delighted. He’s someone I look up to.”
Massive coup
It’s been perhaps the worst kept secret in Glasgow in recent days that this was eventually going to get over the line.
However, now that it’s been officially announced, it’s a massive relief to see that such an experienced veteran like Duffy is making his way to Glasgow.
The Irishman brings with him a vast wealth of experience. With just under 100 games in the Premier League as well as 132 Championship appearances, there’s not a lot in Scotland that should surprise him (Transfermarkt).
The Celtic supporters will now be watching their new man keenly as he gets set to play for his country over the next week. With Celtic’s next match against Ross County coming up next weekend, a debut for the big centre-back will be firmly hoped for by supporters.
Regardless, it’s great to get this deal done. Duffy is clearly looking forward to the season ahead, and things just got a little brighter at Parkhead.
Now, all focus should turn to finding further recruits with yet more areas of the Celtic squad needing strengthened.
In other news, we take a look at why speculation linking one Celt with Liverpool could be a positive for the club.
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