Could set-piece coach Ross Grant be Celtic's key summer signing?
Celtic have hired set-piece specialist Ross Grant from Hearts. We analyze how his tactical impact could transform the Scottish champions' dead-ball effectiveness.
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The role of a set-piece coach has moved past the era of skepticism to become a vital component of modern football. While Celtic fans remain impatient for new player arrivals, the club has made a strategic move by poaching set-play specialist Ross Grant from Hearts.
The numbers behind Grant's tenure at Tynecastle offer a clear explanation for his reputation. During the last Scottish Premiership campaign, Hearts recorded a league-high 23 set-piece goals, sharing the top spot with Rangers. In contrast, Celtic ranked in the middle of the table, highlighting a clear area for improvement.
Grant's influence was multifaceted: his Hearts side led the division in successful corners into the box and aerial duels won. This precision allowed players like Claudio Braga and Stuart Findlay to thrive, with both defenders scoring five times each from corners. It is this tactical edge that Celtic are now looking to integrate.
I know he is a highly rated coach and I look forward to working with him. Martin O'Neill
The transition to Celtic brings both potential and challenges. While Celtic have players capable of capitalizing on deliveries, such as Arne Engels, there is uncertainty regarding the future of key contributors like Engels and Daizen Maeda due to summer transfer rumors. The intrigue now lies in whether Grant's specific set-piece expertise will drive the club's remaining recruitment strategy as they look to build on their title-winning form.