Maik Nawrocki was officially unveiled as a Celtic player at a media conference at Celtic Park on Wednesday and clued in fans on what to expect from him at the Bhoys.
The Polish defender signed a five-year deal from Legia Warsaw after the club agreed to a fee of over £4m for his services.
He will immediately compete for a first-team place in the centre of defence alongside Carl Starfelt and Cameron Carter-Vickers, relishing the chance to get involved in Brendan Rodgers’ set-up.
Asked about his style of play, Nawrocki said [The Herald]: “I like to have a lot of possession and to have the ball and to create attacks but you have to defend very well too of course.
“I think the right side is my strongest but the left is not a problem because I played both sides at Legia. Centre-back on both sides in a three or four really.”
That versatility will serve him well when Rodgers is selecting his starting eleven. Nawrocki was also asked about his personality and what it brings to the Celtic squad.
The 22-year-old said: “I think I was a quiet person off the pitch but on the pitch I wanted to show everything and not speak off it. I came to Legia, I was alone so I think I grew as a man too. Legia was the perfect step to prepare me for a club like this.
“It’s a good team with a mix of young players and experienced players. I can grow here. I’m here to make my big step and help the club to achieve their goals.”
He came across as a confident and well-spoken individual in his first media appearances and perhaps even mature for his age. It’s clear he is eager to succeed at Celtic and knows exactly what he is getting into at the club.
It’d be fantastic to now see a glimpse of his talents in upcoming friendlies against Wolves and Atheltic Bilbao, before a potential competitive debut in the early weeks of the season – with Carter-Vickers still getting up to full fitness after a lengthy absence.
In other news, The full Celtic squad depth picture after Yang, Kwon and Nawrocki arrivals.