John Hartson and Paddy McCourt react as Celtic make ‘tremendous’ loan signing

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Celtic have finally sealed the loan signing of Republic of Ireland defender Shane Duffy.

Hoops boss Neil Lennon told OTB Sports last month that “tentative enquiries” had been made over the Brighton centre-back.

After increasing speculation, the deal was announced on Wednesday, Celtic confirming that Duffy had joined the Scottish Premiership champions on a season-long loan deal.

The 28-year-old, a boyhood Celtic fans, arrives at Parkhead with a wealth of experience, having played over 250 competitive senior club games and winning 33 caps for the Republic.

National manager Stephen Kenny has described him as a “really, really competitive centre half who is tremendous in both boxes” (Daily Record).

Bhoys legend John Hartson was pleased with Duffy’s arrival, welcoming the defender on Twitter and deeming him an “excellent signing”:

And Paddy McCourt also hailed the signing of Duffy on social media:

Duffy, a boyhood Celtic fan, has been on the Seagulls’ books since 2016, making 130 competitive appearances for the English south coast side.

However, he got little game time last season, with just 21 appearances and 16 Premier League starts under his belt.

Brighton have also bolstered their ranks with Ben White’s return from Leeds and Netherlands international Joel Veltman joining from Ajax last month.

Duffy is currently on duty with his country, preparing for their upcoming Nations League matches against Bulgaria and Finland.