Wilfried Nancy: My Celtic team will attack but also be 'disgusting' to play against

New Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy says he wants to his team to be on the front foot and attack with aggression, while also being “disgusting” to play against.

The former Columbus Crew was confirmed as the permanent replacement to Brendan Rodgers on Wednesday and will take charge of the team following a successful interim spell back in the dugout for Martin O’Neill.

However, it could be a bit of a baptism of fire for the Frenchman who will get his first taste of Scottish football in a top-of-the-table clash with league leaders Hearts on Sunday.

Despite being nine points clear at the start of last month, it is now only goal difference separating the Tynecastle club and the champions, meaning if Nancy wins his first game, he will take the Hoops to the Premiership summit.

After that will be a Europa League clash against Serie A leaders AS Roma at Celtic Park before the League Cup final against St Mirren next weekend.

Speaking to the media for the first time since being appointed, Nancy explained his vision for the club and revealed his excitement to get started.

He said: “We want to play offensive football, but what does that mean?

“Of course, every team wants to score goals and so on, but for me it is about proactivity, to be on top of the opposition and to attack the ball as soon as possible.

“But, then we also want to be disgusting to play against when we defend, because there will be moments when we have to suffer, so the idea is to be good defensively also.

“It is step by step, I arrived two days ago and we have another two days to prepare for the game.

“At every organisation, the idea is to always improve. We have a transfer window opening soon, but first, I am going to have to assess the team and get to know them a little bit better.

“I know them as players, because I have watched many games, now it is about getting to know them personally, and after that we will see what is best for the team.

“I like to take my time, but I know I don’t have a lot of time. The idea is to identify the profile that we need to make the next step forward.

“We have a quality team, with quality players, but they have to believe a little bit more in themselves, for me it is important to have tactical flexibility and players who can play in different positions.”