Myallby lines up another tackle against Rangers
Like the doting Father who has just witnessed his son become a man, Johan Myallby has fittingly had the final say in the transfer of the player many AIK fans compared to the peerless Swede.
Big Dolph, ever the nurturer has stated that it will take a little time for Jos to settle in, however he feels that the attributes the player has at his disposal will stand him in good stead.
“There is a bit of a transition when you move to a new league, especially one as quick and competitive as the SPL. For me, it took a few months to just get used to the pace of the game.
“But Jos is a clever player, so he will learn quickly and get used to his new environment without any problems. Mental strength is important, very important, when a player is moving to a club like Celtic – and he seems to be strong in that department.
“Because he has a good brain, he will find it quite easy to gel and settle into the squad. That is important for any player. Celtic need to get good use out of him quickly, because they have spent money in order to make him an important part of the squad.”
Meanwhile former AIK teammate and recovering Hun Bojan Djordjic sang the praises of Hooiveld, stating that possibly Jos is the defender that the Celtic support have been dreaming of in recent times.
If the fee is the £1.5million that people are talking about, then I would say that’s an absolute bargain,” he said. “Most people in Britain don’t know a lot about Swedish football so they will be quite surprised by how good Jos is.
“In some ways he’s a typical British centre-half in that he’s brave and a born leader. He reminds me a bit of Bobo Balde as he isn’t scared to get stuck in. But he’s not just some basic bruiser. He can play a bit as well, is a good passer, and is comfortable on the ball. I would say he will be a really good addition for Celtic.
“He’s a big personality to have in the dressing room and used to cheer people up when things weren’t going well. And the media will love him, too, as he just says whatever he’s thinking. Sometimes he’s maybe too honest, but he just can’t help himself.
“When it comes to massive clubs like Celtic and Rangers, there is no real need to speak to anyone. You just go and sign and I’m sure there were no doubts in his mind.
“My only advice for him was that he should choose Rangers instead! But they weren’t in for him – so Celtic had to do.”
Yours in Celtic
Clydebuilt