Celtic Raid Hearts as Ross Grant Joins O’Neill’s Backroom Team
Hearts' set-piece specialist makes Parkhead switch, replacing Gavin Strachan in champions’ coaching setup
Celtic have announced the signing of Hearts coach Ross Grant as part of Martin O’Neill’s backroom team ahead of the new season.
The Premiership champions confirmed the appointment as they continue to fine-tune their coaching setup following last month’s title win, edging out Grant’s former side in the process.
Grant makes the switch from Tynecastle to Parkhead after playing a key role in Hearts’ impressive campaign, but now finds himself with the League champions following a summer of upheaval in Edinburgh.
The move comes after the departure of Gavin Strachan, with O’Neill wasting little time in bringing in a specialist operator to bolster his staff, particularly in the increasingly crucial area of set-piece coaching.
In an official statement, Celtic said: “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.
“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 himself welcomed the addition, saying: “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’s exit is the latest blow for Hearts, who have seen their core dismantled in dramatic fashion since the end of the season. Manager Derek McInnes has already jumped ship to Rangers, while captain Lawrence Shankland also made the move to Ibrox.
For Celtic, though, it’s another calculated raid on a direct rival and a clear signal that O’Neill is leaving nothing to chance as he looks to retain the title.