Ross Grant was confirmed as part of Martin O’Neill’s staff as the First Team Coach arrives from Hearts. The Fifer will replace Gavin Strachan on the coaching staff and will be tasked with set piece analysis and coaching.
The Jambos benefited hugely from the expertise of Grant, scoring 23 goals from set pieces in the league, which was joint with Rangers. Derek McInnes hailed him as one of their best signings last summer, something that was backed up by the data.
According to our friends at Celts Are Here, Grant was sought by McInnes to join his staff at Rangers. McInnes, who moved across the M8 to take over from Danny Röhl, reportedly failed to convince Grant to make the switch.
Now, the Celtic supporter will join O’Neill, Fotheringham, Maloney and McManus as Celtic look to continue their dominance of Scottish football. Marginal gains have become the norm in football and it is important that Celtic continue to modernise.
Given his allegiances, it is unsurprising that Grant spurned the advances of the Gers while his colleagues on McInnes’ staff at Tynecastle followed him to Ibrox.
Grant worked with and assisted Austin MacPhee, Aston Villa and Portugal coach, in previous roles learning from the seasoned coach and taking his extensive coaching background with Dundee United’s Academy, their first team, Hearts and now, Celtic.
Grant’s LinkedIn bio revealed his role at Hearts, ‘working on designing structured training sessions, tactical planning and enhancing player performance.’ That should give an indication of what Celtic can expect from Grant.
Celtic boss O’Neill spoke positively about the appointment of Grant.
“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.”
