Nir Bitton is taking care of new Celtic team-mate Hatem Elhamed.
Nir Bitton has told Celtic’s official website that he feels like a father figure to new signing Hatem Elhamed.
The 28-year-old is one of five senior players to join the Hoops this summer and has already made a positive impression to the Parkhead faithful.
Elhamed, an Israel international, knows Bitton from playing alongside him for their country, as well as former club Ashdod.
And the big Celtic midfielder, who moved to Glasgow in 2013, has joked to the club’s official website that he views Elhamed like his ‘baby’ at the moment.
“He’s like my baby now, I’m like his Dad! I’ve been here for six years, and I’m trying to guide him, I’m trying to help him in all different ways.
“For him, it’s good to have someone familiar here. He’ll want to work hard, show his qualities and he’s managed to do that well up to this point.
“Hatem is a great player, and he’s showed that in the games he’s played so far. He’s got plenty of ability and I’m sure he’ll keep that up between as the season progresses.”
There’s been a lot of encouraging signs from Elhamed so far and he’ll no doubt improve. His experience outside of Israel is limited and therefore the more he plays, the better he’ll get under manager Neil Lennon.
Elhamed, a right-back, picked up an assist in the League Cup win at home to Dunfermline last week.
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