Celtic have appointed Ross Grant as their new set-piece coach, poaching the highly-rated specialist from Hearts. Grant played a key role last season as the Jambos topped the Premiership's scoring charts from set-pieces with 23 goals alongside Rangers.
Grant's Impact at Hearts
Derek McInnes, now in charge at Ibrox, hailed Grant as his "best signing so far" after the coach swapped Dundee United for Gorgie last summer. Under Grant's guidance, Hearts became one of the most dangerous teams from dead-ball situations in the Scottish top flight.
Move to Celtic
Grant will join Martin O'Neill's Double-winning coaching staff ahead of the new campaign. A Celtic statement read: "The club has been working on developing its football backroom team in recent weeks and we are now also pleased to confirm that Ross Grant will be joining Martin O'Neill's coaching staff, with Ross having particular focus on set piece analysis and coaching."
The statement added: "Ross joins the Premiership champions from Heart of Midlothian, where he was a hugely important part of their coaching team last season. Holding a UEFA 'A' Licence, he also previously worked with Dundee United for four years and has spent the last year with Hearts. A lifelong Celtic supporter, Ross has valuable experience in set-piece analysis, coaching and player development."
O'Neill's Welcome
Hoops boss O'Neill said: "I am really pleased to welcome Ross to our backroom staff, I know he is a highly rated coach and look forward to working with him." Grant previously worked under ex-Scotland and Hearts set-piece guru Austin MacPhee and could fill the void left by Gavin Strachan, who joined West Brom last week.
