Miller: This winger reportedly close to Celtic move could become a Parkhead hero
By Danny Wright
Joe Miller believes that Jonny Hayes could earn “hero status” at Celtic if they sign him this summer.
The Daily Mail have reported that the 29-year-old winger is close to a move to Parkhead after a bid in excess of £1million was accepted by Aberdeen for the only non-Hoops player to be shortlisted for the Scottish player of the season award this year.
Miller, who had spells with both Celtic and Aberdeen during his playing career, also thinks that Hayes would be a brilliant replacement for Patrick Roberts, who has now returned to Manchester City after an 18-month long loan spell.
“If Hayes can have that same kind of impact this season for Celtic he could earn the same hero status as Roberts did,” said Miller, 49, as quoted by the Daily Record.
“Hayes could become the player everybody is raving about this time next season. I am sure Brendan [Rodgers] will be telling him that. The Celtic manager clearly had Hayes in mind when he was looking to build his team for this season and that is why he has signed him.
“That alone should give Hayes a great deal of confidence when he walks through the doors at Celtic.”
Hayes was easily the stand-out player for Aberdeen as they finished runners-up to Celtic in the Scottish Premiership last season.
The winger scored 11 goals and supplied a stunning 24 assists in 44 appearances for the Dons, who have recently confirmed that their manager Derek McInnes is staying at Pittodrie despite an approach from Sunderland.
Roberts was in equally as good form for the Bhoys last season as the Rodgers’ side won the domestic treble without defeat.
He scored 11 goals and bagged an impressive 19 assists in 47 appearances in both European and domestic contests.
In other Celtic news, a Premier League club is eyeing up a move for this Hoops target.
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