Scott out to impress boss Brendan
SCOTT ALLAN is frank in admitting he felt like a gatecrasher to Celtic’s title party last year.
Signed from Hibs in August, the midfielder made just two league starts throughout a campaign which culminated in the Hoops claiming their fifthsuccessive championship.
Yet, while an additional 11 off the bench was enough to secure his winner’s medal, the 24-year-old couldn’t shake the feeling it was almost obtained under false pretences.
“Although I got my medal I didn’t feel I earned it,” said Allan.
“For me last season was all about keeping my head down and hoping for a run of games. But it never came.
“It was hard to take at times but you have to swallow it.
“One manager is for you but another might not be. That’s just the way the game is.
“Because of that, the party at the end was more about celebrating with a lot of boys who I am close to.
“We are a team and people help you through certain things. I was delighted at their success and it was fun to share it with them.
“However, as a footballer, you just want to play as much as possible.”
Early signs are that opportunity could come courtesy of the new Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers.
Rodgers was effusive when describing his opening impressions of the player. Flatly ruling out the possibility of his joining Gary Caldwell’s Wigan Athletic on a season-long loan in the English Championship.
“I want to be a successful Celtic player, that’s all I’m concentrating on,” said Allan.
“The new manager has been a breath of fresh air and it’s a second chance for some of us. Hopefully I can grab mine with both hands.
“With a bit of luck, I can be his type of player. I’ve heard about what he wants from us and I’ve watched his teams play.
“I have to put the work in, catch his eye early doors and take my chance.
“He’s spoken to me a few times individually. He gave me a lot of encouragement but what he said will stay between myself and the manager.
“The manager put things in my head that I need to work on. But I got the impression that he’s done his research on me – I’m sure he’ll have done that with every player here.
“He’s thorough. That comes from being at the big clubs he’s been at.
“What I got from him was really positive. I can’t wait to work with him.”