Blackett joins Celtic

Celtic F.C. have completed the signing of defender Tyler Blackett from Manchester United on a season-long loan deal.

The England Under-21 international, Ronny Deila’s sixth signing of the summer, was introduced to the Celtic support at half-time during the club’s league clash against St Johnstone on Saturday.

The arrival of Blackett gives Deila an insurance policy amid ongoing reports linking Virgil van Dijk with a summer exit from Glasgow, as reported interest from Southampton continues to dominate the headlines.

When asked what Blackett would bring to the team, Deila said: “Quality. That is the most important thing as I have said many times.

“He is a good player, an up and coming young player. He can play centre-back or left-back so we will see.

“He has experience playing for Manchester United. He really wanted to come to Celtic and we wanted him as well so I think he is going to be a good signing.”

Regarding Van Dijk, Deila added: “From a coach’s perspective, we want to keep Virgil because he is a good player. There is interest in him, there has been more than one club interested.”

Meanwhile, Blackett has confirmed his delight at joining the Scottish Premier League champions, and is hoping to hit the ground running.

Speaking to the crowd at Celtic Park on Saturday, Blackett said: “I’m very delighted to be here and I’m just excited to get started.

“I can see that the fans have been great and I’m sure they will be great all season long so thank you to them.”

Blackett, 21, made 11 English Premier League appearances for United last season.

Stones turning in professional performances

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp has commended John Stones for giving ‘good performances’ amid the ongoing transfer saga surrounding the player, which has included three rejected bids from Chelsea.

West Bromwich Albion have left Saido Berahino out of the club’s last three games in all competitions as reports continue to link the former England Under-21 international with Tottenham Hotspur, but Stones has started each of the Toffees’ five matches this term.

Amid the ongoing saga, Stones’ focus has not waned, much to the delight of Roberto Martinez, who has reiterated his desire to keep the player time and time again.

“Roberto Martinez is either playing the greatest game ever, or he genuinely is going to keep him,” he said.

“It’s difficult, because he’ll probably get on the coach and he’ll have messages from everyone – from his agent saying ‘Chelsea have already been on’.

“This is how football works.

“Especially with Chelsea’s result today, conceding goals again, they will be desperate to get him. And you can see why – he’s a top-class player.

“As much as anyone, it will be good for him when this window closes, wherever he may be. If he’s at Chelsea or if he’s at Everton, he can get on with his football.

“People like Berahino aren’t even playing. He’s getting on with it and he’s giving good performances.”

Now then, will Everton sell Stones during the current transfer window?