Brendan Rodgers insists he can’t wait to work alongside Celtic’s new head of football operations Paul Tisdale.
As first reported by Mail Sport, the 51-year-old has been appointed to a new senior role overseeing talent identification and development and will also be tasked with revamping the club’s data and analytics function.
The former Exeter City manager, who describes himself as a “football doctor”, also coached MK Dons, Bristol City and Yeovil Town in a managerial career that spanned more than 1,000 games.
Head of recruitment Mark Lawwell and head scout Joe Dudgeon left Celtic in March. And Tisdale, once described as “the most stylish man in football”, will now work with manager Rodgers to deliver players capable of improving Champions League results.
“I am very pleased to have been able to bring Paul to the club in this important new role and I am looking forward to working with him,” said Rodgers.
“He is a hugely talented man who I know will make a really positive difference for us and give us a new advantage.”
Paul Tisdale has been appointed head of football operations at Celtic
The Englishman has managed more than 1,000 games for clubs such as Exeter and Bristol City.
“He knows modern football inside out, he understands what we need as a club, what our team needs to operate at a high level and how we can develop positively and successfully in a number of roles within the club.
‘I have known Paul for some time and know his work very well. I know that he will be a great asset to Celtic and that his knowledge, talent and tremendous work ethic will be crucial for us as we move forward in a number of areas, always aiming to deliver greater performance and increasing success. ‘
His playing career cut short by injury at the age of 26, Tisdale is credited with discovering Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins at Exeter, as well as Welsh international Ethan Ampidou and current Swansea captain Matt Grimes.
Brendan Rodgers insists he hopes to work with Tisdale at Celtic
The Englishman, who established himself as a football consultant during lockdown, provided advice to clubs such as Crystal Palace and Fulham on recruitment, football operations, analysis and coach development.
And, after helping Celtic during a summer transfer window when they broke the club’s transfer record twice, he now moves to Parkhead permanently.
“It is a great honor to accept this new role at Celtic and join a club of such pedigree and stature,” said Tisdale.
‘I can’t wait to join the team, start my work and get positive results. Celtic demands and deserves excellence in all areas and I know that is something the board and Brendan strive for at all times.
“In my role, I will do everything I can to further develop our work in talent identification, development and analysis, always with the aim of ensuring high-level support for football performance.
“As I already know Celtic, I know there are a lot of genuine, quality people at the club, all working in the same direction and passionate about success.
“I look forward to joining them as we work together to deliver excellence for the club and our fans.”