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Brendan Rodgers 'taken aback' by Adam Idah attributes

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has high hopes for Adam Idah after his loan move to Glasgow
Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has high hopes for Adam Idah after his loan move to Glasgow

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has said that he was "taken aback" by the attributes offered by Republic of Ireland forward Adam Idah, after the Norwich City man joined the Scottish giants on loan for remainder of the season.

Idah makes the move north in the hopes of kickstarting his career, after seeing his playing time dwindle at Carrow Road in recent months.

His was the second arrival at Celtic Park during the winter transfer window, after the club signed winger Nicolas Kuhn from Rapid Wien on a five-and-a-half year deal.

"He's the level of player that we would liked to have brought in," Rodgers told Sky Sports on Friday.

"I've mentioned before that we could only really bring in what I felt was quality signings and I think the two guys that we've brought in over the short and longer term can do really well for us.

"Adam is a young player that I had seen in the Premier League breaking through as a youngster and I've got to say that I was taken aback by his attributes. I think through one reason or another it hasn't quite worked out for him so far at Norwich, he had some injuries and whatever else but there's absolutely no doubting his talent.

"He's a big, big talent with huge potential still and at 22, a player that has great years ahead of him. We'll work with each other and see if we can maximise that talent. I know he's delighted to be here and I'm delighted that he is as well."

Idah so far has 22 caps for Ireland, scoring three goals, and an upturn in club fortunes would bound to be beneficial for his international prospects, with a new manager set to come on board in due course.

Idah got "goosebumps" when he first ran out at Celtic Park and is even more excited to be able to fulfil his lifelong dream of playing for the cinch Premiership champions.

He could make his debut at Aberdeen on Saturday, said: "The last couple of days have been very stressful but I'm so happy to be here.

"I found out there was interest on Monday morning and from there it kicked on and I was here, there and everywhere.

"It was a no-brainer. I have always said I wanted to play for Celtic.

"It's such a big club and the gaffer here has an amazing history. With him developing all these young players, it will suit me to a tee."

The Cork native added: "With the Irish background and my friends and family back home, we all support Celtic.

"We played Celtic in pre-season last year and when I walked out into the stadium it was a big shock to me and just gave me goosebumps.

"I always wanted to play here, I just didn't think it would be this early, so I am even more excited to be here.

"My phone was popping off on Thursday night and all the messages from the fans have been amazing. I am very thankful for their big welcome and I am looking forward to seeing them in person."

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