Former Celtic Women’s defender Caitlin Hayes took to social media earlier tonight, sharing a photo on Instagram with former Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley at Brighton’s Amex Stadium. Both players, who enjoyed their time at Celtic, and are now playing in England—O’Riley in the Premier League and Hayes in the Women’s Super League. With the duo at the Brighton Player of the Year awards last night.
O’Riley joined Brighton in August for just over £25 million, breaking the Scottish transfer record. He made over 100 appearances for Celtic after moving from MK Dons in 2022, scoring 27 goals and helping Celtic win three consecutive Scottish Premiership titles.
He also won several awards, including Celtic’s Player of the Year in 2024. O’Riley had a strong start at Brighton, scoring on his Premier League debut against Manchester City after an injury setback in his EFL Cup debut, but injuries have kept him out for a while. Going on to make 19 appearances for Brighton this season.
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Hayes, on the other hand, moved to Brighton in January after five successful years at Celtic. During her time at Celtic, she helped the team win two Scottish Cups and the SWPL title last season. She also scored 40 goals, an incredible achievement for a defender.
Her move to Brighton boosts the Irish presence in the Women’s Super League, as she joins fellow Irish defender Anna Patten at Aston Villa. Since joining Brighton, Hayes has played five times this season and looks set to continue performing at a high level.
Both players had an incredible impact at Celtic, and now at Brighton, Celtic supporters will definitely be keeping an eye on their progress in England as they continue to build on the success they started in Glasgow.
