New Celtic star Jiri Jarosik has revealed how Chris Sutton sold him on a move to Parkhead.

The 28-year-old midfielder made the switch from Chelsea for an undisclosed fee last night after signing a three-year contract, with the option of an additional year with the Scottish champions.

Despite failing to make an impact during his time at Stamford Bridge, a successful loan spell at Birmingham last season meant he was targeted by several clubs this summer.

Celtic claim they beat off competition from the Premiership, Spain, Germany and Russia to land the Czech Republic international.

But Jarosik admits former Hoops star Sutton - now at Birmingham - had a part to play in his decision to come to Scotland.

He explained: "I spoke about Celtic with Chris Sutton and he told me the fans are great so I am happy to be here.

"Celtic are a big club and I am the winning type. Last year I played in Birmingham and it was a bit different."

Celtic have secured automatic entry to the group stages of the Champions League next season and Jarosik admits the opportunity to play in Europe's most elite club competition was also a key factor in the move.

He added: "I'm happy to be here because Celtic have a big history and they are a massive club. They have the best fans in the world and I'd love to play in the Champions League every year."

And what will Celtic receive in return from the towering midfielder?

"I am strong in the air and I like shooting, from left or right. It's no problem for me," said Jarosik.