Celtic supporters are loving what they're hearing from new Bhoy

By Euan Davidson

January 21, 2022

Matt O’Riley, announced as a Celtic signing last night, has been quick to get his message across to fans both old and new.

The former Fulham and MK Dons midfielder has already donned the Hoops, been given a squad number, and interacted with Hoops fans online after making a move from the EFL League One. The pacy, creative midfielder, with England youth caps, brings another rush of excitement to a promising Celtic midfield.

O’Riley, who’s also eligible for Denmark and Norway, expressed his excitement on Twitter, and fans are already replying in their droves. The response to the signing has been overwhelmingly positive, thus far. Especially with the transfer work Ange has already done, and considering the imminent absence of Tom Rogic, called up for Australia by Graham Arnold.

O’Riley could have an unusual start to life at Celtic. Instead of 60,000 at Paradise, or even one of the more spacious Premiership grounds, it might be the 3,000 seater Indodrill in Alloa where he makes his debut. The Hoops face Alloa Athletic in the Scottish Cup on Saturday night.

Regardless, it’s another popular signing. Reo Hatate, Yosuke Ideguchi and Daizen Maeda have already impressed Celtic supporters. Johnny Kenny, 18, signed from Sligo Rovers and there’s real optimism about what he can do.

With the 5th signing of the window, Ange has again captured the imagination. His incredible work ethic makes him sound like a perfect fit for the Celtic boss. Although he was playing in League One, there was substantial interest. Anderlecht and Venezia were reportedly keen, while Championship clubs Blackburn Rovers and West Bromwich Albion wanted him, too [Daily Record].

Celtic fans welcome Matt after O’Riley seals Hoops move

The reaction to Celtic signing O’Riley was decisive.

In Matt O’Riley, the humility and work ethic comes across straight away. Celtic supporters have responded to that, and sound pleased by the midfielder’s ambition.

Here are some of the best responses online:

Pretty unanimous, then.

Humble, hard-working, but with more than a touch of quality, O’Riley seems like a great fit for Ange’s Celtic.

Supporters seem to agree.

Read more: Graham Arnold beams as Celtic star Tom Rogic called up for Australia; will miss key games