Celtic complete Telfer signing

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan confirmed tonight that Paul Telfer had signed a two-year contract with the club.

He revealed that the 33-year-old Scotland international has completed his move from Southampton following his side’s 2-2 draw with Sporting Lisbon in Glasgow tonight.

Telfer gives Strachan versatility and commitment and joins new signings Artur Boruc, Maciej Zurawski, Jeremie Aliadiere, Mo Camara and Adam Virgo in the club.

But the Hoops boss is concerned that events in London had prevented the versatile defender from signing in time to face Artmedia Bratislava in the Champions League qualifier.

He said: “He has come up here and he has signed but it’s just a case of getting the forms through.

“Craig Beattie played there at right-back and he gave it his best shot going forward but defensively it was a bit of a problem at times.

“He is a smashing player and we need to work with him but we have not had that time since Gary Irvine got injured so that area has been a bit of a problem.

“But if Paul Telfer had a fitness test then I would guarantee that he will win it.

“The guy has been playing a long time and we have tried to bring in young players but they cost money and like Adam (Virgo) he brings many options.

“They can play in many positions and that’s what we need. This is a small squad and we need more quality but those players can play in various positions.

“If everything goes to plan tonight then he will be signed in time to play in midweek but because of what happened in London earlier today there has been a breakdown in communication. Hopefully we can get that sorted out.”