Paul Hartley insisted Celtic were always his number one choice - despite interest from the other half of the Old Firm.

The midfielder, 30, completed his move from Hearts to the Scottish champions last night in a move worth £1.1million.

Rangers were also believed to be interested in a transfer deadline day move for the Scotland international.

But childhood Celtic fan Hartley revealed no-one else stood a chance once he realised Gordon Strachan wanted him.

Hartley told the Scottish Sun: "I've never hidden the fact that I'm a Celtic supporter so you can imagine what this day means to me.

"Celtic being prepared to pay over £1million for me just makes all of this extra special.

"They must think I'm a good enough player to spend that kind of money.

"It's a compliment when any club comes in for you but I couldn't knock Celtic back.

"There was only one decision for me once Gordon Strachan said he wanted me."