Why 'bullish' McCowan has already impressed one of his Celtic heroes

The 26-year-old secured his dream move to Celtic Park from Dundee on transfer deadline day and made his debut off the bench in the Glasgow derby triumph over Rangers just two days later.

It’s been a whirlwind start to life in Glasgow for the midfielder, who told the media this week he intends to push for a spot in Brendan Rodgers’ starting lineup.

McCowan’s "bullish" words have already impressed one of his Celtic heroes, John Hartson. Speaking to The Go Radio Football Show, the Welshman said: “Listening to that attitude there, I think it’s very bullish. He’s sending out a message that I haven’t come here to play second fiddle. He backs himself, which I think every player has to. That’s great. That’s the type of thing a manager actually wants to listen to. He’s got real character.

Read more:

• Who McCowan wants to emulate and his former Celtic idol

• Willie Collum explains toughest part of refereeing Celtic vs Rangers

• ‘Grateful for the opportunity’: Lawal reflects on life after Celtic

“So, I don’t think he’ll play every game. I think he will have to bide his time because we saw how good Bernardo was against Rangers and then obviously Hatate and McGregor in there as well. But there’ll be injuries, there’ll be opportunities for him. There’s no doubt about that.

"I just like the fact that he’s backing himself really, really early after maybe one game. A Celtic fan, that just goes out the window. It’s great for the Celtic supporters, but that’s not going to make him play any well or any better. It’s just a great, great moment for him to join his boyhood club, but it doesn’t mean he’s going to play any better."