Former Celtic Transfer Target Explains Why He Snubbed Celts for Premier League

Former Celtic Transfer Target Explains Why He Snubbed Celts for Premier League

Dylan Reid, who was once a Celtic transfer target, has explained why he decided to make the leap to the Premier League, rather than staying in his native Scotland (per The Scottish Sun).

Reid, 17, cited his concerns with a potential lack of first team football at Celtic. He believed that he would only get game time in Celtic’s B team, in the Lowland League – which he thinks is not the right thing for his development.

Additionally, he also mentioned Palace’s track record of developing youngsters as an influence towards his final decision.

In an interview, Reid said: “It’s obviously a big deal moving away but I feel I’m ready for it. I turn 18 next week and coming to London doesn’t faze me at all. I’ve moved into digs and I’m getting looked after well, so it’s all good.

“I’m able to focus on my football and working to become the best player I can possibly become, which is what it’s all about. The set-up is brilliant at Palace. The club is geared towards youth and bringing through their own players. That’s one of the things that made me want to come here. I just felt this was a club that would give me a chance to progress.

“Palace don’t seem to spend a lot of money on new players, when they have a good one coming through they push them into the team. That’s the incentive for me. The plan is for me to play for the Under-18s between now and the end of the season, before going in with the Under-21s from next summer. I trained with that squad when I first came down to see the place and get a feel for it.”