Murphy's joy as he completes Celtic move

Celtic have completed the signing of Sunderland striker Daryl Murphy. The 27-year-old has joined the Parkhead club on a three-year-deal.

He becomes manager Neil Lennon's fourth signing of the summer, following the captures of Charlie Mulgrew, Joe Ledley and Cha Du-Ri. Murphy began his football career with his hometown club, Waterford United, before joining Sunderland in 2005. He also had loan spells at Sheffield Wednesday and then Ipswich Town last season. Murphy admits he had no hesitation in quitting Sunderland for Celtic once he learned of their interest.

Asked why he joined Celtic, he said: "I don't even know where to start. Being Irish, I grew up with Celtic everywhere and as a kid I supported them. The club's history, the fans - there are a million reasons why I joined."

Murphy revealed he is unlikely to join Celtic on their pre-season tour of North America and admits the last few weeks have been a whirlwind. He added: "The first I heard about their interest was about a month ago but at the time I thought it was just speculation in the papers and didn't read too much into it.

"Over the last few weeks I found out it was concrete and it's happened quite fast. I'm just happy to be here."

Meanwhile, Celtic have drawn Portuguese side Braga in the third qualifying round of the Champions League. The Parkhead side will play away in the first leg on 27 or 28 July, with the return at Parkhead on 3 or 4 August. Victory would take Celtic through to join the likes of Tottenham, Sampdoria and Sevilla in the play-offs for a place in the group stages.

Braga, who play at the distinctive AXA Stadium, a venue carved out of the rock face of a former quarry, finished second to Benfica in their domestic competition. It is their first foray into the Europa League.