Celtic pick up prized pair

Celtic FC have boosted their chances of UEFA Champions League success by completing a double transfer today.

Long contracts
The Scottish champions have finalised moves for Denmark defender Ulrik Laursen and Sweden goalkeeper Magnus Hedman. Both have cost €1.5m with Laursen agreeing a five-year deal and Hedman signing a four-year contract.

'Bigger stage'
Laursen, 26, has moved from Celtic's Scottish rivals Hibernian FC. "My main concern is with Celtic and the national team could be a bonus," he said. "I've had two of the best years in my career playing with Hibs and it is a great club, but Celtic is a bigger club and a bigger stage and I wanted to try that in my career."

'Positive things'
Hedman, 29, said he spoke to compatriots Henrik Larsson and Johan Mjällby before deciding to leave English club Coventry City FC. "I've talked to them over the years and they told me about how much they loved playing for Celtic and how much they loved the city and the country," Hedman said. "It was always positive things and I think you can see that from the way they have been committed to the club."

First test
Celtic will enter the Champions League in the third qualifying round later this month. They will meet the winners of MŠK Zilina and FC Basel, who drew 1-1 in the first leg of their second qualifying round tie last night.