CALLUM McGREGOR reckons Celtic fans will enjoy the new-look Patryk Klimala when the Premiership kicks off on August 1.
The Polish striker cost £3.5million when he arrived from Jagiellonia Bialystok in the January transfer window, but made only three appearances, two as substitute, and is still waiting for his first Hoops goal.
However, Klimala has bulked up during the coronavirus pandemic and cut an impressive figure on the return to training at Lennoxtown.
Scotland international midfielder McGregor thinks the 21-year-old frontman, who has also had his head shaved, now resembles a nightclub bouncer!
The champions’ vice-captain, speaking to the Daily Record, said: “There are a few dodgy haircuts in the squad. A few of the boys have grown it out and are so scared to touch it!
“They might need to wait for the barbers to re-open.
“Patryk has shaved his head a few times – he’s looking like a bouncer! He has come back looking in great condition. He’s obviously been working hard on the physical side during lockdown and he’s returned looking really strong.
“The good thing is he’s still looked really quick in training. It’s important not to lose that half a yard of pace when you are starting to bulk up a bit.
“But he looks in top condition and raring to go –as are all of the rest of the lads.
“Everyone has been really professional in their time off and are just looking forward to playing games again.”
Klimala and £2million Ismaila Soro were hoping to get first-team opportunities in the run-in, but it’s back to square one since football went into lockdown in mid-March.
McGregor added: “I’ve got a lot of sympathy for the boys who made big moves in January. It’s a whole new life for them and they are trying to settle in – then the whole world shuts down.
“It’s hard enough under normal circumstances in a new country.
“The Scottish lads have had support of their families through this and it’s been difficult enough, but it’ll have been even tougher on the likes of Patryk.
“Getting back in these last few weeks is a fresh start for everyone, and especially for someone like him.
“He’s going to get a good pre-season and some minutes under his belt. I’m sure it won’t be long before he is showing us what he can do and playing a real part in the squad.”
