‘Super’ Samaras strikes twice in Celtic win

Two years ago, Theofanis Gekas made headlines for his superb scoring record with the Bundesliga’s Vfl Bochum. During a one year stay with Bochum, Gekas scored twenty goals to finish atop the scoring chart in Germany. Now, Georgios Samaras looks to be the next Greek to bask in success abroad, as Samaras experiences success with Celtic FC.

After being sacrificed by Sven Goran Eriksson last year, Samaras secured a move from Manchester City on an initial loan deal to the Scottish Champions. After a summer of disappointment during the EURO 2008 Championships, where Greece didn’t put up much of a title defense, Samaras decided he was ready for a starting role. With Gordon Strachan willing to give the Greek an opportunity in the starting eleven, Samaras left Eastlands for greener pastures.

With an attack including several reputable strikers, many feared Samaras would ride the bench again. However, this was not the case. With the Scottish season in full swing after six fixtures, Samaras has already established a lead atop the scorer’s table. With two consecutive two goal performances, Samaras has achieved success individually as well as with the team. Saturday’s two goal clinic of sublime control, and prime finishing showed Samaras has the potential to be a dangerous talisman.

After the weekend’s fixtures, Celtic can be found in second place in the hunt for the Scottish Premier League title; while Samaras sits alone atop the scoring table. Seven goals from the opening six fixtures have given Celtic fans — and supporters of the Greek National Team — plenty of optimism.

If Samaras is to continue his scoring streak with the ‘Hoops’, surely the Greek’s popularity with the Celtic fan base will overflow. With the crowd already accommodating for the Greek, chants of “Ooh! Ah! Samaras! Say ooh ah Samaras!” or ‘gorgeous George” and “Sexy Sami” should continue to echo at Celtic Park.