Strachan to spend 'wisely' in striker search

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan has vowed to spend “wisely” in his continuing search for a new striker after missing out on Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink last week.

The Bank of Scotland Premier League champions could not agree terms with the Dutchman, who has since joined Charlton after being released by Middlesbrough.

But that will not stop Strachan trying to find an experienced replacement for John Hartson, who moved to West Bromwich Albion this summer.

He said: “At the moment, we have three strikers in Craig Beattie, Maciej Zurawski and Kenny Miller.

“We need at least four strikers though, so we are one short in that department and are looking at options elsewhere within our finances and we will use our finances wisely.”

Miller, who joined the club during from Wolves, is not fazed at the arrival of another man and would welcome even more competition for the two striking positions.

He said: “I feel I’m a far better player than I was when I joined Wolves. Celtic fans might remember me as a young player at Hibs, but I’ve come a long way since then. Hopefully, I will be able to show them that this season.

“There are a lot of quality strikers here, but I’m confident that I’m good enough to be a first choice and, hopefully, hold down a place in this team.

“Obviously, that is the manager’s decision, but I will work hard to prove myself and do enough to earn a place. There is a group of good young forwards here, while we also have Maciej who has a bit more experience.

“Celtic will always be linked with new players as well but I look forward to the challenge. At a massive club like this there is always going to be competition for places but it’s something I look forward to. I’ve come here to win things and, hopefully, score lots of goals.”

Miller has been given the number nine shirt for the coming season and, while he is reluctant to set targets, he has vowed to fire Strachan to a second season of silverware.

The 26-year-old added: “The number nine jersey means a lot to me. When you think of a striker or a goalscorer, that’s the number you associate with them.

“I did ask the boss if I could have it when I signed. Luckily enough, he agreed and I’m delighted with it – hopefully, I’ll wear it proudly next season.

“I don’t really set myself targets. I’m not going to say ‘I want to score 20 or 30 goals’. Basically I want to start this season in good form and score a lot.

“If I’m doing that, then I’ll be able to get in the team and keep my place. I’ve come here to win trophies and score goals. Hopefully I can do both.”

What Celtic lack in experience and numbers at the moment, Strachan has vowed to make up for in fitness.

And Miller has assured fans that the current squad are being made to work hard in pre-season training.

The Scotland international told the Celtic View: “The training has been tough, it’s been the hardest pre-season I’ve had for six or seven years, but it’s been good.”