Giorgos Giakoumakis: I've learned lots from former Celtic man Samaras

By Euan Davidson

August 31, 2021

New Bhoy Giorgos Giakoumakis has told Celtic supporters that he’s learned a lot from another famous Greek striker; former Celt Georgios Samaras.

Samaras, who played in the Green and White between 2008 and 2014, was a fan favourite at Parkhead. All in, he scored 71 goals and assisted 49 for Celtic [Transfermarkt], and he’s already imparted wisdom to the next Greek striker at Paradise.

The ex-Greece international Samaras is now CEO at OFI Crete, where Giakoumakis was loaned in 2019.

Speaking to Celtic supporters for the first time since joining the club, Giakoumakis said [Celtic FC]:

“I’ve watched a lot of Georgios’ games and we worked together in Greece, he’s now the president of OFI Crete where I played for two years.

“We’ve known each other for a while and we keep in touch, I’ve learned lots from him and that’s made me even more excited to come and play here.

“He told me that the fans are great, that I will represent a very big club, and I’ll be expected to win every game.

“The manager’s attacking style of play is perfect for me. I can’t wait to come, to meet the fans and start something really good together.”

Samaras approval will be welcome boost for Celtic fans and Giakoumakis alike

Samaras enjoyed his best years at Celtic, and formed a really meaningful bond with supporters before his eventual move to West Bromwich Albion.

In 6 years, the striker wasn’t almost the most prolific. But he did score vital goals, in Europe and domestically. His strikes against Rangers, for example, live long in the memory.

So, it’s great to hear that Sammy, as he was affectionately known, effectively sold Giakoumakis on the move. Although talks with Ange Postecoglou clearly worked, a second opinion via Samaras was hardly a bad idea.

Celtic fans have already taken to Giakoumakis, the club’s 10th signing of this window. Now he has an endorsement from Samaras? He’ll be a fan favourite already.

If he enjoys half of the relationship Samaras had with the Hoops faithful, he’ll be a very beloved man indeed.

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