Celtic striker Giorgos Giakoumakis has revealed the brilliant reason behind his decision to choose the club's iconic number seven jersey.

The Greek international has donned the number worn by greats such as Jimmy Johnstone and Henrik Larsson since he joined Ange Postecoglou's side last summer.

He has been in sensational form since arriving in Glasgow after scoring 17 goals last term.

And now he has revealed the hilarious reason behind taking on the squad number - after a conversation with a former Hoops player and fellow countryman.

He commented: "When I called [Giorgios] Samaras before I signed, he said ‘Don’t take the number nine, it’s pretty heavy because of who wore it before'.

“I asked him who had it and he said ‘me!’

“I remember watching the games when he was playing so I already knew that."

The former VVV-Venlo attacker was a revelation in the second half of last season and made a significant contribution to the Hoops' title success.

This included vital moments such as a hat-trick against Dundee in a 3-2 victory on the same day Rangers dropped points and also a goal in the game in which the Bhoys were crowned champions against Dundee United at Tannadice.

The 27-year-old also opened up about his favourite goal and moment so far while at the Parkhead side.

He continued: “I feel very good right now. I am settled and really happy playing for this jersey.

“My favourite moment? I’ve had many positive memories from the goals I scored.

“The best moment was the goal at Dundee United, which settled the title. We enjoyed the trophy day as well.

“The overhead kick in the last game against Motherwell was my best goal as I was on the line to be top scorer.

“After that, I knew I had time to get a second one.”