Pressley sets his sights on title glory

STEVEN PRESSLEY has revealed the opportunity to lift more silverware was one of the major factors in his decision to sign for Celtic.

The former Hearts skipper chose to join his one-time Coventry team-mate Gordon Strachan at Parkhead ahead of a move to Charlton.

Pressley, who left Tynecastle earlier this month after criticising the way the club was being run, has signed a contract until May 2008.

The 33-year-old former Rangers player joins a small band of players to have belonged to both Glasgow giants, following the likes of Mo Johnston and new team-mate Kenny Miller.

Pressley said: “I’m absolutely thrilled and honoured to join Celtic. It’s a fantastic opportunity for me at this age.

“There are plenty of challenges. There is the opportunity to win silverware here at Celtic Park. In eight-and-a-half years at Hearts I got the opportunity to do that only once and it was a fantastic feeling.

“Here there are expectations to do that on a regular basis and an added pressure with that but one I’m looking forward to.’’

Pressley admitted the opportunity to play Champions League football had influenced his decision.

The former Rangers player is ineligible for the clash with AC Milan in February as he played with Hearts in the qualifying stages but with the Hoops 15 points ahead in the Bank of Scotland Premier League, he will not have to wait too long.

Strachan feels Pressley is the “leader” the centre of his defence needs.

“I’ve known him since he was a kid and he has got better every year, not only as a player, as a man.

“He has shown over the last few years he is an exceptional leader. He has presence, not only on the field but in the dressing room.

“Steven will be the perfect example on and off the pitch of how to deal with being a centre-half and a Celtic player,” said Strachan.

Pressley is confident he can win over any doubters in the Hoops support.

He said: “I think the most important factor is that I’m passionate about my football. Regardless of where I play it’s important that you show the correct commitment. If I do that hopefully I can endear myself to the Celtic faithful.”