Celtic striker Leigh Griffiths has urged his side to continue their pursuit of Scotland’s “hidden gems” this summer.
The Scottish club have already snapped up on of Scotland’s biggest talents this summer in Aberdeen winger Jonny Hayes, in a deal that was confirmed by the club a week ago.
Hayes had scored 11 goals and supplied 24 assists from 44 appearances in all competitions last season, and Griffiths has shared his delight as the signing of Aberdeen’s “best player”.
However, the 26-year-old Hoops goalscorer also urged manager Brendan Rodgers to continue along the same path in pursuit of his remaining summer signings, instead of spending big-money on European talent.
He told the Daily Record: “I’m really pleased to see Jonny sign. He’s been Aberdeen’s best player for a couple of seasons now and will be a great addition.
“He’s scored a couple of worldies against us and it’s good he will be on the same team now. If there is more to come, they will be welcome.
“The thing is, Celtic are renowned for going in and spending big money on players but you can find hidden gems from the Scottish game.”
After Hayes, Griffiths used current Celtic star Stuart Armstrong as another prime example of Celtic’s success in identifying the hidden gems in Scottish football.
Armstrong moved to Celtic from Dundee United in February 2015, and he has since become a vital asset to the first-team squad.
The 25-year-old thrived under the stewardship of Rodgers last season, registering an incredible 17 goals and seven assists for Celtic as they cruised to a domestic treble.
But despite last season’s remarkable success, Rodgers is set to further strengthen his squad ahead of their treble-defence, as well as their upcoming Champions League campaign.
Rodgers has made a challenge on the European stage his next aim as manager at Parkhead, and their campaign begins with a third-qualifying round clash against either Linfield or SP La Florita next month.
He may therefore target proven Champions League talent, but Griffiths believes narrowing their search for new talent to within the borders of Scotland could still be a worthwhile enterprise.