Old Firm active in last day of transfers

By: Ian Rose | September 1st, 2007

Celtic got rid of some extra baggage and Rangers brought in some new blood, as the Old Firm made their final moves before the transfer window slammed shut last night at midnight. Here’s a breakdown of the four big moves.

Graveson to Everton
The Toffees got Thomas Graveson back after a two-year absence that saw him bounce from Real Madrid to Celtic, never really finding a place at either. Celtic fans will be, for the most part, happy to see the Danish troublemaker go, and even happier to see his inflated salary off their books. Good move.

Miller to Derby County
Celtic sold Kenny Miller on deadline day to the struggling Premier League newbies Derby for an undisclosed fee. The Scotland striker has had his ups and downs at Celtic Park, and was more famous last season for the goals he missed than the ones he made, but seemed to be coming into form early this campaign. Billy Davies could certainly use a competent goal-scorer at Derby, but time will tell if he can stay healthy in the fast-paced English game.

Faye to Rangers
The Rangers midfield got a bit of a defensive boost with the addition of Andy Faye on loan from Charlton. I’m not sure if Faye is the quality of player that Rangers will need to hold their own in that tough Champions League group, but he should make it that much harder to put one past Allan McGregor.

Naismith to Rangers
In the blockbuster signing of deadline day, Rangers have finally signed Steven Naismith, who has been looking to leave Kilmarnock and get onto an Old Firm side for months. Naismith was the best young player in Scotland last season, along with Scott Brown, but will struggle to find a place on a Rangers side rich in offensive options. His age, combined with the ludicrous Under-21 bench rule, should help him secure a steady place as at least a sub, while his addition means even less playing time for older Rangers signings like DeMarcus Beasley. It won’t help him for long, though. He turns 21 in two weeks. This was possibly the last signing in Europe, with the final papers being faxed into the SFA at 11:59 last night. See kids, don’t listen to your parents, procrastination works.