Ben Siegrist buzzing for Angeball as Celtic signing admits it used to annoy the hell out of him

He has pretty much mastered the art of providing the last line of defence behind a regular football team.

But, at the age of 30, the mundane business of stopping shots and claiming crosses is no longer enough to stimulate Ben Siegrist. Which is why yesterday the Swiss keeper signed up for a whole new experience. How to keep goal, according to Ange Postecoglou.

Granted, the very idea might scare the life out of lesser men – and at times last season it did seem as if even Joe Hart was being exposed to a whole new world of high tariff risk taking. But for Siegrist, this is the opportunity he has waited a whole career for.

And the former Dundee United No.1 could hardly wipe the smile off his face after being officially unveiled as the latest recruit of Postecoglou’s ongoing Celtic rebuild: “Ultimately, it was down to the manager – it was down to his vision,” Siegrist explained as he reflected on the easiest decision of his professional life.

“I could go to another team and play another 100 or 150 games or I could go somewhere I feel like it’s going to improve me the most. That’s what it came down to, my willingness to improve – to better myself – and measure myself day in, day out against the best players Scotland has to offer.

“That was the fantastic opportunity I didn’t want to pass up. I had the urge to look for something new, something that really pushes me and improves me.

“So when the manager did tell me his vision for the club and the part I’m going to be playing, I felt it was the right spot for me. I wanted to be part of it. I wanted to call this home and be part of this side now.

“I had a good conversation with the goalie coach Stevie Woods who has a fantastic reputation and I really look forward to working