GAVIN STRACHAN hopes to emulate his famous father Gordon at Celtic.
The former Hoops gaffer had a jolt at the start of his career as Martin O’Neill’s successor in 2005 with a dreadful defeat to Artmedia Bratislava in the Champions League qualifier.
But the chirpy character recovered splendidly to lead the Hoops to the title – their 40th flag in history – and also a League Cup success.
Gavin, who has taken over the role of Damien Duff as the champions bid for a historic 10 title on the trot, is ready to hit the ground running.
Strachan, speaking to the club website, said: “It is a huge honour to be appointed to this position with Celtic, such a giant of a club and a real iconic footballing institution – this really is an opportunity I could simply not turn down.
“I am hugely excited about getting started with Neil, John and the players as we get ready for the challenges ahead.
“Neil and John have been massive figures in the club’s nine-in-a-row journey and it will be fantastic to be part of such a great management and coaching team. The club has had a phenomenal run of success in recent years and I know everyone at Celtic and our supporters will be doing all we can, together, to keep this run going.
“I know we are looking ahead to a really exciting season and, for me personally, it is a great time to join this brilliant club.
“I will work my hardest every day to bring success to the club.”
Gaffer Lennon welcomed the new Bhoy and added: “We are delighted to bring Gavin to Celtic. He is a brilliant appointment for us and someone I know will work really well with myself, John Kennedy, the players and the rest of our backroom team.
“We had a number of options for the role, but Gavin was the outstanding candidate. He is a really talented, experienced, hard working and respected coach and I know he has the right qualities to make a great contribution to the club.
“We are all really pleased to welcome Gavin to our team.”
Strachan effectively takes the place as No.3 on the first-team coaching staff as successor to Duff who has joined Stephen Kenny’s Republic of Ireland international set-up.
The Hoops’ latest recruit had been assistant manager to Darren Ferguson at League One side Peterborough United.
