Celtic transfer recruit sold on Parkhead move by ex Rangers star who made feelings on move clear

Shim Mheuka has revealed advice from a former Rangers star that helped seal a loan move to Celtic.

The teenage striker is highly-rated by Chelsea and the Premier League giant have handed him a long-term contract extension. They want him to build experience though and have sent him to the Premiership champions managed by Martin O’Neill, where he’s impressed in cameo performances so far, including a disallowed goal during Saturday’s win at St Mirren.

Mikey Moore is a close friend after time together in the England youth ranks. He spent time on loan at Rangers on the other side of the city last season and there’s now a clear disagreement on who the pair think is Glasgow’s top side. According to Mheuka, Moore still provided sound counsel on moving north, and believes the switch will do him good amid backing from his dad who also played professionally.

What former Rangers star advised star on moving to Celtic?

Mheuka said: "I've been part of the England squads with Mikey so I watched his games from last year. He's a good friend of mine, I spoke to him before I came here. He told me it's a beautiful city and I'd really enjoy it.

"It's more about what's best for me than what Mikey has done, and what was the best next step in my development. But it helped that he is a good mate and did well here. Mikey told me I was on the wrong side of Glasgow, but I told him, 'No I'm on the right side of the city!'

"Dad's been there for me all my life, along with my mum and my brother. It helps having a father who has played the game, and so understands the different elements of what to expect and what not to expect. I wouldn't be here without him. Dad's my best supporter and also my harshest critic. He's always in the back of my mind when I'm playing and I think about what he's thinking.

"He's been such an amazing influence in my life. I've seen a few clips of him playing back in Zimbabwe and read about him in the papers. Dad was a decent player. He played in midfield, either as a number eight or number 10, but he had similar kinds of abilities to me.

Why has Shim Mheuka joined Celtic?

"He was powerful and good on the ball. My family all played a part in my decision to come here, but my dad spoke to me about the manager. Everyone in football knows about him. He's an amazing character who has done fantastic things in the game.

"He's been in the game a long while so I can learn valuable lessons from him, not just in football but in life as well. The appeal of Celtic was everything, from the way they play football, to the fan base and the league itself. This club is the perfect step in my development and to take me to the next level.

"I heard about their interest throughout the window. There are clubs who show interest in you. But it's about talking to those close to you and who have your best interests at heart, whether it's at Chelsea or friends and family, to make the best decision."

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