adminCeltic have strengthened their backroom staff by appointing highly rated set-piece coach Ross Grant from Hearts in a move that is expected to boost the club’s preparations for the new season.
While much of the summer attention has focused on new player arrivals, the Scottish champions have quietly made an important addition behind the scenes by recruiting one of the Premiership’s most respected specialist coaches.
Grant earned widespread praise during his time at Hearts, where he played a major role in developing one of the league’s most effective set-piece units. Hearts finished last season level with Rangers for the most goals scored from dead-ball situations, with both clubs finding the net 23 times from corners, free-kicks, and other set-piece opportunities.
His reputation continued to grow after former Hearts manager described him as his “best signing so far” following his arrival from . Despite that praise, Grant has now opted to continue his career at Celtic, the club he has supported since childhood.
Grant joins manager ‘s coaching staff with responsibility for set-piece analysis and coaching, bringing valuable experience in tactical preparation and player development.
Confirming the appointment, Celtic said:
“The club has been working on developing its football backroom team in recent weeks and we are now also pleased to confirm that Ross Grant will be joining Martin O’Neill’s coaching staff, with Ross having particular focus on set-piece analysis and coaching.
Ross joins the Premiership champions from Heart of Midlothian, where he was a hugely important part of their coaching team last season.
Holding a UEFA ‘A’ Licence, he also previously worked with Dundee United for four years and has spent the last year with Hearts. A lifelong Celtic supporter, Ross has valuable experience in set-piece analysis, coaching and player development.”
Grant also previously worked alongside respected set-piece specialist , further enhancing his reputation as one of Scotland’s brightest emerging coaches.
His appointment also fills the vacancy created by the departure of , who recently left to join .
Speaking about the new addition, O’Neill said:
“I am really pleased to welcome Ross to our backroom staff. I know he is a highly rated coach and look forward to working with him.”
Set-pieces have become increasingly influential in modern football, with clubs investing heavily in specialist coaching to gain an advantage in tightly contested matches. Celtic’s decision to recruit Grant reflects the club’s determination to improve every aspect of its performance as it looks to defend domestic honours and compete more effectively in Europe.
His expertise could prove particularly valuable for defenders and aerial threats throughout the squad, helping the Hoops become even more dangerous from corners and free-kicks during the coming campaign.
Celtic Linked With Callum Hudson-Odoi
Away from the coaching changes, Celtic continue to make headlines in the transfer market, with reports suggesting the club is pushing to secure the signing of .
The Scottish champions are reportedly looking to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new season, and Hudson-Odoi has emerged as one of their most ambitious targets.
The 25-year-old winger, who came through the academy at before later rebuilding his career at , is believed to have attracted serious interest from Celtic.
Hudson-Odoi previously spent the 2022-23 campaign on loan with before returning to England, where he established himself as an important player for Nottingham Forest with a string of impressive performances.
Should Celtic complete a deal, it would represent one of the club’s most eye-catching signings in recent years. His pace, creativity, dribbling ability, and top-level experience could provide a significant boost as the Hoops aim to retain their dominance in Scottish football while making greater progress in European competition.
Supporters have reacted enthusiastically to the reports, believing the England international could become a major addition to the squad. While comparisons with club legend may be premature, there is growing excitement over the potential impact Hudson-Odoi could make if the transfer is completed.
Although official confirmation is still awaited, optimism continues to build among Celtic supporters as the club looks to strengthen both on and off the pitch ahead of what promises to be another demanding campaign.
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