Transfer Latest – Irish international defender O’Riordan joins Celtic

Fran Alonso has made his sixth summer signing bringing in experienced Irish international defender Claire O’Riordan from recently promoted German side MSV Duisburg. O’Riordan is 27 years old and joined the Frauen-Bundesliga side in July 2018 where she has established herself as a central defender in their first team.

She made her international debut for Ireland against Hungary in 2016 and is now a Celtic player. “It seemed like a good fit for both of us and I’m really looking forward to bringing my experience here,” Claire told Celtic TV.

“It feels really excited, I’m excited about the challenge ahead. It’s been nice meeting the team, the players and the coaching staff, everyone has been so welcoming and friendly so it’s all good so far.

“I had a really good conversation with Fran and I really liked the idea of his philosophy for playing, I think that’s something that I want to improve in my game. It just seemed like a good fit for both of us and I am looking forward to bringing my experience here and seeing what the season has ahead.

“Being a player winning trophies and titles are always a goal that you are aiming to achieve and being successful here at the club last season was a great stepping stone for them and they want to be progressive. That’s something that I want to buy into and be part of and hopefully going forward we can do it.

Being across the pond, playing GAA, I feel that I have that physical attribute to my game. Duals is a big thing and being strong in the air and that’s what I can bring to this team and hopefully being able to share my experience and the knowledge that I’ve gain in the past few seasons being in Germany.”

Welcome to Celtic, Claire.

About Author

The Celtic Star founder and editor David Faulds has edited numerous Celtic books over the past decade or so including several from Lisbon Lions, Willie Wallace, Tommy Gemmell and Jim Craig. Earliest Celtic memories include a win over East Fife at Celtic Park and the 4-1 League Cup loss to Partick Thistle as a 6 year old. Best game? Easy 4-2, 1979 when Ten Men Won the League. Email editor@thecelticstar.co.uk

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