Loovens brushes off Jones jibe

Dutch stopper says SPL not just a two-team league

Last updated: 20th August 2008

Glenn Loovens

Loovens: Bhoys not a bad move

I have to see Scottish football with my own eyes, but I don't think there are any easy games.

Celtic's new signing Glenn Loovens
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Glenn Loovens has rejected talk that leaving Cardiff City for SPL champions Celtic is a step in the wrong direction.

Loovens' old manager Dave Jones claimed the 24-year-old's move was not good for his career as he was joining a two-team league.

The former Feyenoord defender watched Celtic's 1-1 draw with Dundee United at Tannadice last Sunday and the Dutchman believes the SPL may not necessarily be contested between Rangers and Celtic this term.

He is also looking forward to a campaign of UEFA Champions League football with The Bhoys following their SPL success last season.

My opinion

"The manager at Cardiff had his opinion. I have my opinion - which is the one that counts for myself," said Loovens.

"Of course, this is a big step for me. If you play to win things, play in the Champions League, then how can you say that's a step down?

"I have to see Scottish football with my own eyes, but I don't think there are any easy games. I watched Sunday's match against Dundee United and they played really well.

"I don't think it's just about two teams.

"He [Jones] said things to me, but it was to try and convince me to stay. That's his right to say it, but I decided to join Celtic."

International hopes

Loovens also hopes plying his trade in the SPL will bolster his chances of breaking into the Dutch national team under Bert van Marwijk, who replaced Marco van Basten after Euro 2008.

"I played for the national team from 14 years old until the Under-21s and when I see all the boys coming through from that side, I want to get involved as well," he continued.

"Who did I play for at those levels? Do you have a minute? I always played with Wesley Sneijder, Rafael van der Vaart and Robin van Persie.

"It wasn't difficult to see them progress because I knew I wasn't ready for it. Now, I feel I'm getting better and closer to the level which is required. Let's hope I can get up to that level."