YOUSSOUF Mulumbu may not have been the sort of high-profile multi-million pound signing that Celtic supporters were longing to see the Parkhead club make during the finals days of the transfer window last week.

But Mulumbu, who impressed greatly during a hugely successful loan spell at Kilmarnock last season, is convinced he can become a big player for the Scottish champions in the months ahead all the same.

The Congolese internationalist, who can operate as a defensive or an attacking midfielder, has played for Paris Saint-Germain, West Bromwich Albion and Norwich City in the past.

He appreciates forcing his way into Brendan Rodgers’s plans will not be straightforward given how well both Scott Brown and Olivier Ntcham are performing in his favoured berths.

The 31-year-old, though, is confident that he can win over the fans who were underwhelmed by his arrival and become a key man for Celtic both in Scotland and Europe in the future.

He believes his versatility will increase his chances of being involved as his new club have Betfred Cup, Europa League, Ladbrokes Premiership and William Hill Scottish Cup games to play.

“Big names happen when you play well,” he said. “I can be a big name in a few months if I score against Rangers and play in some good games.

“It’s all about your performances. I know there is pressure on the team and club but I’m ready for that. I’ve got experience and ability to play. I’m ready and excited to be in the squad.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me in my career and I believe that I will be a good match for Celtic. I had other offers, but I was looking for the best option but once I heard about Celtic I told my agent to make it happen.

“I was really clear with my agent that I wanted to play at the highest level possible. The highest level for me was the English Premier League, but if it didn’t happen, the other option was Celtic. Now I just have to show why I am a Celtic player.

“I need to be patient. My talks with the manager were really clear. I’m aware of all the players here. It’s a big club and there is always competition. But if you show up well in training and on the pitch, then you are going to get your chance.”

Mulumbu added: “I played in Europe for PSG when I was 19, so I have a little bit of experience there. So I can help the young lads.

“I’m here to help the young lads like Olivier Ntcham and Callum McGregor. I know Scott Brown very well. I can play in different positions, which is an advantage for me. So when the gaffer needs me, I’ll be ready.

“I’m 31, but I still have the legs. Once you hit 30 in football people think you’re old, but I proved last season that I can help this team.

“I played on the fake grass last season and it was quite hard. But I don’t feel 31. I don’t want to talk that much. I want to show it on the pitch. This is all I do. I prefer to be quiet and not be arrogant. I always work hard for the team. I know the fans will be happy with my work and we are going to win some titles, for sure.”

Mulumbu was nothing short of a revelation for Kilmarnock last season. He helped the Rugby Park club beat Rangers home and away – in a game he scored the winning goal in - and defeat Celtic at home and draw with them away. He also ensured they rose from the relegation zone in the Premiership and finished in the top six.

He is grateful to Steve Clarke, the Kilmarnock manager who he had previously worked with at West Brom, for helping to revive his career after his move to Norwich had turned awry and has contacted the Scot to express his gratitude.

“I have a huge respect for Steve Clarke,” he said. “I always say ‘thank you’ to the people who help me and I think Kilmarnock were great for me. So I contacted him to thank him for what he did for me and he said he was looking forward to seeing me on September 26.

“I went there was because of Steve Clarke. That was a big factor in my decision. I didn’t go there for money. It went well and we had a great season. Then I wanted to play for a big team. I was lucky to score against Celtic, my performance maybe brought me here.

“But everything goes back to the beginning now. I need to start playing, I need to start performing, I need to start helping my team. Once the gaffer needs me I will be ready to show all the ability I have got.”

“I know the city. I know what it is to be a part of Celtic. I am ready. I know I am going to do great for Celtic.”