United tie up deal for Miller

Manchester United have finalised a pre-contract agreement for Celtic midfielder Liam Miller.

Cork-born Miller, who will join United on July 1 on a long-term contract, is thrilled at the prospect.

Miller, 22, said: “As a young boy I only ever supported two clubs, Glasgow Celtic and Manchester United. I am honoured to have played for Celtic for six years and now I look forward to joining Manchester United.

“It’s very exciting and is going to be a challenge to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world.”

United manager Alex Ferguson said: “We recognised the potential of Liam, he has had a great season at Celtic. He is very much part of our progressive thinking of developing a young team over the next few years.”

United chief executive David Gill said: “I am pleased to have Liam joining us, it focuses our continued commitment to bring in young players for the future.”

Miller joined Celtic in June 1998 aged 16 and this season has played in all but one of Celtic’s 19 SPL games scoring three goals.

He also played in all the club’s Champion League matches, scoring three times.