MX23RW : Monday, January 28 15:14:50

Bayo takes inspiration from countryman Drogba

Bayo takes inspiration from countryman Drogba
© Reuters
The striker has joined the Scottish champions from Dunajska Streda.

Celtic new boy Vakoun Issouf Bayo revealed countryman Didier Drogba to be his inspiration as he looks to make his mark at Parkhead.

Retired striker Drogba won 105 caps for Ivory Coast during a glittering club career, particularly at Chelsea where he won the Champions League as well as several other major honours.

Brendan Rodgers' latest recruit, who wants to be known only as Bayo, signed from Dunajska Streda on a four-year deal for a reported fee of £2million and was introduced on Wednesday night at half-time of the 4-0 Ladbrokes Premiership win over St Mirren.

Speaking at Celtic Park through an interpreter, the 22-year-old Ivory Coast international acknowledged the influence of his country's football superstar.

He said: "Didier Drogba is a bit like a big brother to me but we haven't spoken to each other.

"I do hope I can have a career as good as he had but we will see what happens.

"When Didier was much younger, this is when you can compare us, he had speed which is one of my qualities and he was also very good with his head which is also one of my qualities,

"So yes, in a way I am inspired and playing in the same style as a young Didier Drogba."

Bayo has been delighted with the welcome he has had from Celtic fans since he arrived in Glasgow.

"I have found it very moving and it made me really happy," he said.

"The fans played a big role in me deciding to sign for Celtic.

"In Slovakia, I am quite well known for enjoying celebrating with the fans when I score and knowing what I know of the Celtic fans, I am really looking forward to having the celebration with them."

Bayo scored 18 goals in 23 games for the Slovak Super League outfit before he made his move and is looking to continue that form in Scotland.

He said: "When I first heard of the offer from Celtic I was really surprised and then obviously very happy.

"I thought this was a good opportunity so I am going to take it, so here I am.

"I would like to keep my scoring record, keep scoring goals, make the club and the supporters happy and win trophies."

However, Bayo has not played for over a month and will now concentrate on getting up to speed with the Europa League last-32 clash with Spanish side Valencia next month a goal.

He said: "It would be fantastic to play in the Europa League. It is something I have been thinking about for a long time.

"But at the moment I need to work on my fitness because I haven't played for a while so it is all about hard work and being match ready and then the coach will decide if I play."


Click here for more stories about Vakoun Issouf Bayo

Click here for more stories about Celtic

Share this article now:
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers pictured on December 29, 2018
Read Next:
Brendan Rodgers confirms Maryan Shved's imminent arrival after St Mirren win
>

Loading ...

Failed to load data.

Loading ...

Failed to load data.

Select and display your favourite team's news and scores in this panel

Loading ...

Failed to load data.

Loading ...

Failed to load data.

Select and display your favourite team's news and scores in this panel
Tables
TeamPWDLFAGDPTS
1Celtic22153453143948
2RangersRangers23136447182945
3Kilmarnock23136434211345
4Aberdeen23134637241343
5Hearts2312382928139
6St Johnstone2211472626037
7Hibernian238873324932
8Livingston238692623330
9Motherwell2383122233-1127
10Hamilton AcademicalHamilton2342171449-3514
11Dundee2334161748-3113
12St Mirren2333171646-3012

Subscribe to our Newsletter


Transfer Talk Daily
Match previews - twice weekly
Morning Briefing (7am UTC)
Ultra close-up image of Kevin De Bruyne [NOT FOR USE IN ARTICLES]Get the latest transfer news, match previews and news direct to your inbox!

Loading ...

Failed to load data.

Loading ...

Failed to load data.

Select and display your favourite team's news and scores in this panel
Login, I already have my ad-free pass
Log in to customise Sports Mole
Buy ad-free access (show me the options)
Buy monthly ad-free access for £1.20/month
Buy yearly ad-free access for £12 (2 months free)
Settings - Logout - Manage your account
Settings - Logout - Manage your account