Auston Trusty 'ecstatic' after completing deadline day move to Celtic

Auston Trusty says he is “ecstatic” after completing a move from Sheffield United to Celtic.

The American international defender has signed a five-year contract with the champions and becomes the latest recruit to manager Brendan Rodgers’ squad.

Trusty, who has played for USA at youth level and has two senior caps, played 32 games in the Enghlish Premier League last season and will now look to help Celtic achieve their ambitions in Europe and domestic competition.

“I feel ecstatic,” he told Celtic TV. “It’s just such an historic and amazing club, and it’s a club I’ve known about since I was a little kid.

“Growing up in Philadelphia, football wasn’t such a popular sport but I knew Celtic, I knew who Celtic were. It’s a dream come true to join this club and such a massive organisation.”

🗣 IT'S AUSTON!!!

Auston Trusty has arrived 😎#CelticFC🍀 pic.twitter.com/eCQLkCUfyG
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) August 30, 2024

The 26-year-old centre-back said that he had enjoyed positive discussions with Rodgers about his role in the team and is looking forward to getting started.

“The manager told me to be the best that I can be,” he said. “That’s off the pitch, as a teammate and everything on the pitch.

“He said that he believes in me and believes in everything I can do, it’s up to me and he’ll provide me with the environment where I can thrive.

“I’m looking forward to meeting all the guys as well. From what I’ve heard it’s a great environment around the club too so I’m looking forward to it.”

Rodgers was delighted to see the deal completed and believes Trusty will prove to be an important part of his squad.

“We are so pleased to sign Auston and he is a really welcome addition to our squad,” the Celtic boss said.

“He is a quick, strong, athletic defender with great ability and good experience and a player who has done really well to make his way to the USA national squad.

“We are really looking forward to working with Auston. I know he is really excited to be joining Celtic and looking forward to facing the challenges ahead and playing his part as we strive to bring our fans success once again.”