Interviews with new players tend to follow a fairly typical format but there seems to be a very encouraging and confident air about one of the Celtic summer signings. And he appeared to impress the club’s supporters with his performance in the pre-season friendly against Wolves in Dublin.
It is inevitable that in early interviews, players will talk about their delight at joining the club, their hopes for success and their desire to play. A lot of the time there is an acknowledgement of their awareness of Celtic as a great club. But one of the new signings has also spoken about the importance of Champions League football to him.
Kwon Hyeok-kyu, Hyun-jun Yang and Maik Nawrocki all signed with the club this week. They have been doing the media rounds and introducing themselves to the fans since then.
Kwon has been particularly impressive in his interviews. He seems to be particularly looking forward to the Champions League matches and no doubt the tremendous atmosphere at Celtic Park on those nights.
New Celtic signing makes Champions League claim after arriving
Although Kwon is yet to play in the Champions League, he is well aware of it as a football fan, and of Celtic’s performances there last season. As reported by the Glasgow Times, he said:
"“Obviously Celtic is one of the Champions League teams so they are well known in Korea.“That’s why it’s one of my dream clubs.“When I was playing at my former club I always had the Champions League song playing in my car. When you repeat it, I think it then becomes true. I have my chance now to play in the Champions League and I want to become a legendary player here. This positive attitude is what I will take to training every day.“There were two impressive matches – last year’s game against Real Madrid although it wasn’t a good result. Playing in the Champions League has always been one of my dream stages. I am very confident that I can do well.“It’s also a very good chance for me to improve as a player so when the chance is given I will do my best.”"
It is great that Celtic have already secured Champions League group stage football rather than having to go through qualifying rounds. It is likely also to have been a strong factor in securing several early signings in this transfer window.
Kwon’s role as a defensive midfielder is particularly interesting. That role was not particularly a feature under the management of Ange Postecoglou, but there is a recognised need for a bit more safety and strength in midfield at times, particularly against top Champions League opposition.