Shane Duffy's former Blackburn boss predicts success for a Celtic 'warrior'

Duffy has been at Brighton since 2016 and has made more than 100 appearances for the club. He was key man in helping Albion achieve promotion to Premier League and maintaining their top flight status.

His opportunities were limited under Graham Potter last season and the Ireland international was set to slip further down the pecking order with Ben White returning from his loan at Leeds United and the arrival of Dutch international defender Joel Veltman.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon made it clear he wanted to add a central defender and Duffy, a lifelong Celtic fan, was the number one target.

The Hoops were able to agree a loan deal with Albion despite interest from Premier League rivals West Ham and West Brom.

He moves to Parkhead with the aim of helping Celtic secure an unprecedented tenth successive title.

Gary Bower signed Duffy for Blackburn Rovers from Everton back in 2014. The Ireland international made 63 appearances for the Rovers before his £4m switch to Brighton.

“I can definitely see him being the sort of player Neil (Lennon) will rely on," said Bower. "He wants to play games and from what I’ve read, he’s turned down further opportunities in the Premier League to move to Scotland.

“I don’t know what’s been agreed, but if this year proves to be successful, he may want to stay beyond the loan deal and maybe stay the rest of his career, the sort of fan he is.

“Celtic are getting someone very passionate about playing for them and there’s no doubt, being part of what could be an historic season was a huge part of his decision.

“He’s a warrior and loves defending. Shane’s a massive physical presence in both boxes and will be a big threat in the opposition’s penalty area with set pieces.

“He’ll throw his body around, he’s a brave lad, will put his head in and most importantly, he wants to win and being a Celtic fan, the fans will really appreciate that.

“Shane’s good to have around the place and bringing the Premier League experience he’s had with Brighton, he’ll be a welcome addition to Neil’s squad.”

Bowyer added: “I saw him from 16 years of age, starting out at Everton then going on loan to Yeovil and we did a very good deal to bring him to Blackburn, but they got good money when he went to Brighton.

“That experience he’s had, you can see the development in him, going from a young defender, who’s made the odd mistake to a player who I believe has got better and better with age."

Duffy who is currently away on international duty with Ireland was pleased to get the deal finalised after a summer of intense transfer speculation.

“I am really delighted," said the defender who has made 33 appearances for his country. "It is something that I have always dreamed of doing and to get the chance and for the club to want me, it is a special moment.

"I am just excited to get up now and get going and hopefully bring success to the club."