Kazim-Richards discusses why he chose to sign for Celtic

Colin Kazim-Richards arrived at Celtic with a stern reputation but insists he signed for Celtic to win trophies and not to simply lift a pay cheque.

The 29-year-old striker completed his deadline day move from Feyenoord to the Hoops on a free transfer, signing a two-and-a-half-year deal.

Since his arrival he has made two appearances and displayed his ability in both games against Aberdeen and East Kilbride.

His ability to bring others into play and score goals or assist someone in the team could be a useful asset for Ronny Deila and help complement Leigh Griffiths.

The Scottish international has largely led the line by himself this season and has healthy return of 29 goals to date in the Hoops jersey.

Scoring has never been the strong point of Kazim-Richards game, and the best spell in his 11-year career, his most recent one at Feyenoord highlights that – finding the net 14 times in 49 appearances for the Rotterdam club.

And despite criticism following him where ever he goes, he maintains that he is always honest with fans and himself.

As quoted by the Glasgow Evening Times , the Turkish international said:

When I’m rubbish I’ll tell you. I’ll be the first to say that.

I think people respect that. I’m my worst critic. I go home, I can’t sleep, I rewind the game and that technology kills me.

I’m not the type of centre forward who demands the ball all the time.

I think can learn a lot from Leigh because he’s got that. And I think he can learn from me because I bring everyone into play.

In the Europa League last year, I had the most assists in the group stage. In general, when I play I bring goals to the team.

It can be me scoring or other guys scoring. You can see that when I come out of the team.

And whilst others in recent years have come to Celtic late in their career for a pay cheque and the glamour of playing at a big club, Kazim-Richards insists he isn’t that type of player.

Football means a lot to me. I’m not here just to get a pay cheque or be a celebrity. We’re in the winning business. That’s what it is.

That’s why I came to this beautiful club. They know how to win and I want to be part of that.

So far in his career, the Turkish international striker has scored 55 senior career goals in 408 appearances for both club and country.

His next opportunity to impress fans since his arrival will come on Saturday as Celtic face Ross County at Paradise.