Luca has set his sights on making history
Midfielder Luca Connell joined Celtic from Bolton Wanderers yesterday and said he’s arrived to help the Hoops win 10 titles in a row.
The 18-year-old, who can play in midfield or at left-back, signed a fouryear deal at Parkhead.
He said: “My new team-mates have got a lot of history and I want to help them make more. I believe we can win 10 in a row.
“It is unbelievable to sign for such a massive club, known all around the world.”
Republic of Ireland boss Mick McCarthy sprung a surprise by including Connell in his squad for the recent Euro 2020 qualifiers with Denmark and Gibraltar.
Although born in Liverpool, he qualifies for the Republic through his grandparents. He believes his upbringing on Merseyside will help him cope with the scrutiny that comes with playing for Celtic.
He went on: “I’m confident and I feel I can talk to anyone. It’s in the Scouse nature to be outgoing.
“I’m especially looking forward to the Champions League. If I can make my debut in the Champions League, then I’ll need that Scouse confidence.”
Connell spent 10 years with Wanderers but has never met Celtic boss Neil Lennon, who managed Bolton from 2014 to 2016.
He said: “The first team had a separate training ground, so I never bumped into him. I’m looking forward to meeting him.”
Celtic pipped a host of English clubs to clinch the youngster’s signature.
Brighton and Southampton had bids rejected in January, while Tottenham, Watford, Leeds United, Wolves and Norwich City were all showing an interest.
The administrators handling struggling Bolton’s affairs claim Celtic will pay more than they were obliged to for the player.
There was some confusion over whether or not the Scottish Champions would have to pay a cross-border development fee if he terminated his contract with the club.
A spokesperson said: “We took legal advice once Luca submitted his notice of termination. A discrepancy in the regulations between England and Scotland meant we had no option but to accept the situation.
“To their credit, Celtic recognised that, and have agreed to pay substantially more than the financial obligations in Luca’s contract.”