Stuart Armstrong spent last night writing an Open University law degree essay after it was put on hold to let him complete his transfer to Celtic.
The 22-year-old midfielder made the move from Dundee United to Parkhead on Monday, signing a three-and-a-half-year deal just before the transfer window closed.
He was joined by team-mate Gary Mackay-Steven, who, having already signed a pre-contract agreement with the Hoops, fast-forwarded his departure from Tannadice after the two clubs agreed on a fee.
The 24-year-old winger signed a four-and-a-half-year deal, with the Tayside club reportedly raking in a total of around £2 million.
At a joint press conference at Celtic Park, Armstrong confirmed his reputation as one of the game’s more cerebral players.
He said: “It has been a busy couple of days. I have an essay due tomorrow morning of 2,000 words that I haven’t even started.
“So once I am done here, I will crack on with that.”
The departure of two of United’s best players left many fans in despair two days after they celebrated the 2-1 Scottish League Cup semi-final win over Aberdeen that set up a March 15 meeting with Celtic in the final.
The Tannadice board issued a statement in an attempt to appease disgruntled supporters, asking them to look at the transfers in the context of the long-term future of the club
However, Armstrong was at odds with part of the statement, which declared “both Gary and Stuart made it clear to management that they wanted to leave Dundee United to further their careers”.
“No, I don’t think so,” said Armstrong when asked if he concurred. “It was up to the clubs, they agreed on a fee and that provided the opportunity to come and speak to the people here. I think that’s how it transpired.
“It was difficult leaving Dundee United behind.”
Mackay-Steven said: “I am so grateful for the way Dundee United treated me.
“It will be a little different when we go back there, but I am sure they will see the bigger picture and know that we still have a part of Dundee United with us, but that we are doing this to further our careers.”
Armstrong proved adept at taking any pressure off himself when asked about Celtic manager Ronny Deila’s claim that he was the Scottish version of German World Cup winner Thomas Muller.
He said: “I think he will soon find out I am not Thomas Muller but it is another step in developing my career under the coaches here.”
Mackay-Steven then admitted it would have been “strange” had he stayed at United and faced Celtic in the March final.
He said: “On Saturday it was a great high for us, getting to another cup final.
“It would have been strange playing for Dundee United against my future employers Celtic.
“And to be here now and know that I won’t be involved at all, is quite strange.
“But football is like that. I would have dealt with if need be.”
He added: “When a club like Celtic shows an interest, your head is immediately turned. It is world-renowned.
“We have played here at Celtic Park before as opposing players and it is an unbelievable place to play your football.”
Celtic also confirmed yesterday that Derry City’s Michael Duffy has signed four-and-a-half-year deal.
The 20-year-old Northern Ireland forward put pen to paper following a trial period during which he bagged two goals in a friendly against Newcastle.
He said: “It feels amazing. It’s like a dream come true.
“I came over on trial just before Christmas and spent eight days here and saw two matches.
“It was brilliant.”