bhoy georgios in dreamland

David Friel
HE came, he saw, he helped Celtic conquer Scottish football for a third successive year. Now Georgios Samaras has returned and he’s back for good this time.

The Greek striker, who had a title-winning loan spell with the Hoops last season, finalised his dream transfer to the SPL champions on Tuesday morning as he signed a three-year deal.

He will join up with the Celtic squad as they prepare for the first of eight pre-season matches, starting against Southampton on Friday night, and he admitted his heart was always set on a move to Scotland, despite interest from elsewhere.

“I am so happy at the moment,” said the new Celt. “This was always my first choice. I wanted to stay at Celtic and my door was closed to other clubs who showed an interest.

“I never spoke officially, or unofficially, to other clubs about joining them. My priority was Celtic and here I am.

“I had a really beautiful four months here last season. I enjoyed the football, I love the attitude and mentality of the club – they think the same way as I do about football.

“We play attacking football, while the gaffer, my team-mates and the supporters were also very positive with me.

“Celtic are one of the biggest clubs in Europe. They win trophies and they play in the Champions League. As a football player, that’s what you want and that’s the reason why I signed here.”

Despite only making 21 appearances for Celtic last season, Samaras quickly became a fans’ favourite. He scored on his debut against Kilmarnock and grabbed vital SPL goals against Hibernian, Motherwell, Aberdeen and Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

He was also part of the Celtic team that won the title at Tannadice on a dramatic last day of the season. Having had a taste of glory, the Greece internationalist now wants more.

Samaras said: “My aims are the same as they always are at this stage of the season. I want to play games, win games and win trophies with Celtic.

“I want to have success in Scotland and also try to have a good run in Europe. I think they are realistic targets for the club and I want to play my part in that.

“I know how big a club this is. It’s a huge club with lots of supporters. You must the handle the pressure because we have to win every single game.

“I’m here because I want to be a winner. I want to handle that pressure and win more trophies for Celtic.”