Greg Taylor has moved to quash suggestions that his decision to leave Celtic this summer was influenced by the return of Kieran Tierney.
The Scotland international, who completed a move to PAOK this week after six years at Parkhead on Tuesday, insists he was never one to shy away from competition during his time with the club. Despite Tierney rejoining the Hoops after a spell at Arsenal, Taylor says his exit was based on timing and personal ambition rather than any fear of losing his place.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Taylor said: “I would certainly not say that is fair. There has been competition for my place at Celtic in the whole six years I was there, and it was not something I ever shirked from. I loved that. It drove me on and helped me find my best level. So, no, I wouldn’t say it was particularly Kieran coming back, it just felt like it was the right time for me to try something different.”
Taylor leaves Glasgow with an impressive haul of five league titles, three Scottish Cups, and three League Cups to his name. He was a consistent figure under both Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers, making 216 appearances in total for the club.
The 27-year-old will now embark on a new challenge in Greece, where he joins a PAOK side that finished third in the Super League and will enter the Europa League qualifiers. He signed a three-year deal.
It’s a fresh start and a good challenge for the player. PAOK are going to be celebrating their 100th anniversary soon, and it would be great if the club could enjoy some success during their celebrations.
