killen is big news down under

David Friel
CHRIS KILLEN has revealed his rugby-mad nation of New Zealand is turning its attentions to a different ball-game following his sensational switch to Celtic.

The former Hibernian striker penned a three-year deal for the SPL champions after completing a Bosman move on Thursday and is now challenging the legendary All Blacks for column inches in his homeland.

“My decision to sign for Celtic must be big news back home in New Zealand because my mobile phone has being going constantly for the last 24 hours,” said Killen.

“When the offer to join a club like Celtic comes up then it's a no brainer. The thought of the Champions League was massive.”

Killen’s transfer has been welcomed by his national coach Ricki Herbert. The New Zealand supremo hailed the 25-year-old’s move as a massive boost for football in the country.

“If it works out, this would be absolutely fantastic - outstanding, in fact,” said Herbert. “When you look at Killy's career it's onwards and upwards for him and still at quite a young age.

“Celtic are not only in the top echelon in Britain, they're also a hugely recognisable club around the world. It's a great platform for him - who knows where it will lead?”

Killen is also looking forward to teaming up with some familiar faces when he reports for pre-season training at the start of July.

He said: “It'll be good for me to have old mates like Scott Brown, Gary Caldwell and Derek Riordan in the Celtic dressing room.

“I also know Scott McDonald as we played against each other in a youth international. He's not a bad lad for an Aussie!”

Following the signings of McDonald and Brown, Killen becomes the third addition to Gordon Strachan’s squad this summer.

However, morning newspaper reports linking Celtic with a move for Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler are completely untrue and ill-informed.

Keep checking www.celticfc.net for the chance to win a signed Chris Killen Celtic strip in a fantastic competition.