Strachan gets fans' backing

The Affiliation of Celtic Supporters Associations have welcomed the arrival of new manager Gordon Strachan and the possibility of a permanent deal for striker Craig Bellamy.

The Hoops boss is also determined to keep Neil Lennon and Jackie McNamara at the club after their deals expire this summer.

Strachan revealed he had already spoken to Bellamy about his future after moving to Parkhead on loan from Newcastle and is confident a permanent deal can be reached.

Affiliation secretary Peter Rafferty is also optimistic after attending the press conference to unveil Martin O’Neill’s successor.

He said: “He (Bellamy) realises what it means to be playing here with the crowd behind him.

“Newcastle are a big team but, compared with Celtic, I don’t think they are as big, although a few Geordies might disagree.

“But nevertheless he knows what it is like to play here.

“He turned our club round at the latter end of the season.

“Craig scored a few good goals and is an exciting player with great pace.

“It was also nice to hear Gordon talking about Neil Lennon and Jackie McNamara – players who have been here for a while – because you need that type of player in the dressing room.

“So the whole package is quite good and we are looking forward to the new season.”

But Rafferty also welcomed the arrival of Strachan at the club as he replaces a “legend”.

He told Sky Sports News: “It is a very positive appointment.

“Now that Gordon is the manager, Celtic supporters around the world will back him 100%.

“He did mention – probably the most important thing – that he did get offers over the last 15 months to join other clubs but didn’t think that was for him.

“When the suggestion came up to be Celtic manager, he went for it straightaway.

“Martin turned this club on its head. He won seven trophies and took us to the UEFA Cup final.

“He has done everything we asked of him and more. He is a legend.

“He was charismatic and was very good for the club. He also got 100% backing.

“He is known as St Martin here in Glasgow and further afield so that is a very hard act to follow but I’m sure Gordon Strachan will give it his very best shot.”