CELTIC have announced that Lee Congerton has joined the club as its new Head of Recruitment.

The 43-year-old previously worked alongside Hoops boss Brendan Rodgers at Chelsea and has also had spells as a Technical Director at Hamburg and most recently Sporting Director at Sunderland.

Congerton will be responsible for 'the management of the club's player recruitment and scouting operation, including our international scouting network,' a club statement said.

"I am delighted to be joining a club of Celtic's stature, it is a huge honour and I can't wait to get started in making my contribution to such a fantastic institution," Congerton told celticfc.net.

“In recent years there has been some great work done at the club in the recruitment and development of some high-quality playing talent. I am really looking forward to adding my experience in this area and ensuring that we continue this high level of achievement.

"I know Brendan well, I know how he works and the quality he aims for. I am really looking forward to working with him again and Peter to ensure that we continue to bring the very best to Celtic and give our fans players and a team they will be proud of."

Celtic boss Rodgers insisted that the Ladbrokes Premiership leaders had brought in the very best after the appointment was confirmed.

"It is great news that we have been able to bring someone of Lee's calibre to Celtic," he said.

“He brings knowledge, experience and excellence to such an important area of our work and I know he will add real value to the club.

“We will always strive to be the best in everything we do and in Lee, we have brought the best to Celtic."

Chief Executive Peter Lawwell added: "Player recruitment is such a crucial function of the club and we are delighted to welcome Lee to Celtic to oversee this area.

“We are always looking to develop further, to drive the club forward and ensure that we continue our success in this area and deliver the best players we can to our supporters.

“Given the importance of this appointment we have gone through a thorough process and taken our time to identify the right person.

“Lee was the outstanding candidate for this position and we are sure he will deliver real impact and benefit to the club."