Heart ruled head, says Bhoys' Bobo
Bobo Balde has revealed that his heart ruled his head in deciding to sign a four-and-a-half year deal with Celtic.
Middlesbrough and other clubs had offered him more money to leave but the cult-figure opted to stay at Parkhead.
Balde said: “I have had many things to consider over the last few weeks and I appreciate the pre-contract offers given to me by a number of clubs .
“My heart has been with Celtic for some time and that was a big factor in my decision. I want to help Celtic try to retain the championship and again experience big European matches like we have done in the recent past.”
The 29-year-old looked set for a January transfer window move to the Premiership but as the club unveiled new loan signing Craig Bellamy, Martin O’Neill revealed the player had decided to stay until the summer at least.
That gave the Hoops hope Balde would accept their own contract offer and that became reality last night.
O’Neill has now tied John Hartson and Balde to new deals and competition for places is the best it has been for some time with the arrivals of Bellamy and Stephane Henchoz.
O’Neill enthused: “I am absolutely delighted that Bobo has decided to stay at the football club. He has been an integral part of the team since he arrived from Toulouse three-and-a-half years ago and he has become a firm favourite with the fans.
“I think I echo everyone’s sentiments when I say how pleased I am that he is staying with the club.”
Having made 169 appearances and scored 13 goals for Celtic, Balde has been a key part of their success.
The Parkhead board have been criticised for not giving O’Neill more money but the fans will be happy Balde is secured, with Neil Lennon and Jackie McNamara set to follow.
Chief executive Peter Lawwell said: “The Celtic board is pleased to be able to support Martin in retaining another quality player at the club.
“Bobo has been a tremendous servant to Celtic football club and it was no surprise that there was significant interest in him during the recent transfer window. Clearly we are all delighted that he has decided to stay with Celtic.”
The arrival of Bellamy possibly had a big influence on Balde’s decision. The Welsh international has been handed the number 47 shirt.
