‘Fantastic signing’ – Exclusive: Phillips blown away after Celtic complete £2.5m deal
Kevin Phillips has hailed Celtic boss Neil Lennon for the signing of Brighton defender Shane Duffy on a season-long loan.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, the former England international claimed that the 28-year-old’s Premier League experience will give him “a massive advantage” in Scotland.
The Hoops confirmed yesterday that the centre-half had joined on a season-long loan deal after Football Insider revealed that he was to have a medical on Tuesday after the two clubs agreed on a £2.5million deal.
The Bhoys have more than doubled their initial offer of £1million to secure Duffy‘s services and will pay the majority of the his £45,000-a-week wages.
The Republic of Ireland international was the subject of interest from West Ham and West Brom but the player had his heart set on a move to Glasgow.
When asked by Football Insider if fans should be excited about the arrival of the centre-back, Phillips said: “I have been a big admirer of Shane Duffy over the years.
“He struggled last year but going up there he will not be doing as much defending as he would have done at a lower club in the Premier League. His Premier League experience will give have a massive advantage in that league and I think he will settle very quickly.
“He is very assured and a leader. It is a fantastic, professional signing from Neil Lennon.”
Speaking while on international duty, Duffy said: “I’m delighted, it’s something that I’ve always dreamed of doing and I’m just excited to get up there now and get going.
“Hopefully I can do my best for the club. I’m over the moon, it’s been a long time coming!”
In other Celtic news, Frank McAvennie reveals the reason why he thinks Tom Rogic is quitting the club this summer.