Ray Houghton has urged Celtic to press ahead with their interest in signing Republic of Ireland international Keith Andrews.

The SPL champions have reportedly held talks with the 31-year-old over a Bosman move to Glasgow, after his short-term contract with West Bromwich Albion expired.

Andrews is said to have been offered a deal to stay in England’s top flight but Houghton believes Celtic should act now to pull off a signing “coup”.

“Keith would be a tremendous acquisition for Celtic,” Houghton told the Daily Record. “He has a fantastic attitude and is a born winner. He loves a challenge and is not afraid to put his foot in.

“He also has a great engine, can get up and down the park and weighs in with the odd goal now and then.

“This boy can play and I would be absolutely delighted if Celtic signed him as it would be a real coup for the club.

“I am sure Celtic will be among a number of clubs looking to sign Keith after the Euros.

“Champions League football could help Celtic as he has done a lot in his career but he has not played in Europe’s elite club competition. That’s a big draw for any player.”

Andrews is in the Republic of Ireland squad for the European Championships and is expected to be a first choice for manager Giovanni Trapattoni’s side.

The former Blackburn Rovers player had a spell on loan at Ipswich Town last season and previously played for MK Dons, Hull City, Walsall, Stoke City, Oxford United and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

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