Reo Hatate says he is "extremely honoured" to finally don the Celtic shirt.
And he says he can't wait to get going under Ange Postecoglou, a manager he has long since admired from afar.
Reo was one of a trio of New Year's Day acquisitions by the Hoops, joining alongside compatriots Daizen Maeda and Yosuke Ideguchi in a major boost to Postecoglou's squad.
The former Kawasaki Frontale man, who will wear the No.41 shirt at Parkhead, knows all about his new Australian boss having watched his Yokohama F.Marinos side closely over the years.
And he couldn't hide his excitement as he spoke for the first time as a Celtic player.
He told the Celtic website : “I am extremely honoured to finally be able to wear this historical uniform.
"I’ve only been able to see Celtic Park on videos and pictures, so I’m really excited to finally be able to experience this great stadium and I’m extremely looking forward to meeting the fans and playing in front of them.
“As a Japanese, it’s really exciting to see a manager who has experience in Japan and in the international stage.
“In Japan, I have always played against his teams but I’ve always observed and thought his way of playing is very strategical and attacking, so it’s extremely fun for the audience.”
Described as a 'utility man', Reo offers relief at left-back and in midfield and hopes his versatility makes him a real asset to his new side.
He went on: “Being able to play in different positions has given me confidence as a footballer. With this team, I want to be able to bring out the best in my style of play and contribute to the attacking side of things a bit more.
"I hope to be the best version of myself so I can contribute towards Celtic and I want the fans to see how I play and to know my style as soon as possible.
"I will do my best in training and in the games and I’m really looking forward to it.”
