I just wanted to be one of the Bhoys, says Greek star Samaras

GEORGIOS SAMARAS revealed he “closed the doors” on all other clubs to fulfil his wish to sign a permanent deal with Celtic.

The Greece international signed a three-year deal with the Scottish champions having scored six times in 21 appearances in a four-month loan spell from Manchester City last season.

Samaras, 23, who made one substitute appearance for Greece at Euro 2008, this summer, is thought to have cost Celtic around £1m. The former Heerenveen striker stressed his desire to remain in Glasgow. “It was my first choice,” he said. “I never spoke to any other clubs, my priority was Celtic and I was focused on them.

“I had a beautiful four months last season. I enjoyed the football and the attitude of the club is exactly how I think about football: always attacking.

“And of course, the gaffer, my team-mates and supporters are also positives. Celtic is one of the biggest clubs in Europe, winning trophies and playing in the Champions League and that’s also why I’m here.”

Samaras was rarely handed a starting jersey during his loan spell at the club last season, manager Gordon Strachan preferring to go with Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink and Scott McDonald, who notched 51 goals between them as the Hoops captured their third SPL title in succession. The Greece striker insists he is determined to break that partnership up this season.

“Jan and Scott scored a lot of goals last season but I will try to push them hard,” he said. “I will push for them and me to give more and try and make the attack more competitive, which is good for the club.”