Loovens explains Bhoys choice

Dutch defender keen to play in Europe this season

Last updated: 15th August 2008

Glenn Loovens

Loovens: Wants to play in Europe

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Glenn Loovens says he has chosen to join Celtic ahead of Rangers due to the chance to play in the UEFA Champions League this season.

Cardiff City have given Loovens permission to speak to Celtic after a fee, believed to be in the region of £2.5million, was agreed between the two clubs.

Rangers had also shown an interest in the Dutch defender, but the Ibrox club's elimination from Europe last week has scuppered their hopes of signing Loovens.

Though the centre-half acknowledged it was a tough decision, he is hoping to become a Celtic player in time to face Dundee United in the SPL on Sunday.

Flattered

"I had the choice of Rangers and Celtic and it was a hard decision to make," Loovens told the Scottish Daily Express.

"But the chance to play in the Champions League is what swung it for me. It's a stage every player wants to grace.

"I was flattered by Rangers' interest, but the chance to play in Europe was just too good to turn down.

"I'm delighted to be joining a club like Celtic. They are a big club and it will be a dream to play for them.

"Everything should be tied up over the next two days and I'm hoping to be available for the game on Sunday."