Nat Phillips: Liverpool Bhoys told me Celtic is the perfect place for me | OneFootball

As soon as Nat Phillips heard about Celtic’s interest, he was eager to get the move to the Scottish Champions signed, sealed and delivered.

The 26-year-old defender today became the latest addition to Brendan Rodgers’ squad, having joined on a loan deal from Liverpool until January 2024.

And two of his Anfield team-mates spoke glowingly about Celtic and the benefits of the move.

Speaking exclusively to Celtic TV, Nat Phillips said: “Robbo (Andy Robertson) is probably just as excited as I am and I think, potentially, a little bit jealous because he loves it here.

“And the same with Virgil. He had a great time here, so I’ve heard nothing but good things.

"There were a few other options that didn’t quite make me feel the same as this one did, so I was really keen to get it over the line and I’m delighted to be here now.

“We’ve had a few conversations (with Brendan Rodgers) since I’ve been here and they’ve gone really well. They’ve just reassured the decision around this whole thing, and I’m really excited to get working with him.”

And as to why Celtic is the perfect choice for him, the new Bhoy explained, “It’s the history of the club. It’s such a huge club, the club’s aspirations, the level it competes at, the fact that they’re in the Champions League this year and the mentality of the club – they want to be winners in everything they do.”

Now that he’s a Celtic player, Phillips will be watching the UEFA Champions League draw with the same eagerness as all of his new team-mates.

The defender has already gained experience at that level with Liverpool, and he’s looking to add to that in the green and white Hoops.

“I’m really excited,” he said. “Obviously I’ve seen Celtic compete in the competition over the years but hearing the stories of the Champions League nights here, I’m really excited to see how they look.

“I would say that I’m more of a traditional type of defender, one who does the basics well and, ultimately the job of the defender is to keep the ball out of the goal and do that by any means necessary but I would say that, when it comes down to it, I’m someone who’ll put his body on the line for the team.

“I can’t wait to get going, I can’t wait to play in front of the home fans and I’m looking forward to being out there on the pitch.”