Celtic summer target makes instant impact with debut double after £6m move

Celtic summer transfer target Justin Devenny made an immediate impact at Stoke City as he scored twice on his debut following his £6million move from Crystal Palace.

The Hoops explored a move for the 22-year-old Northern Ireland international towards the end of the summer window as Martin O’Neill looked to strengthen his midfield options.

Celtic were interested in taking Devenny on loan, but Palace preferred a permanent departure and that ultimately proved a stumbling block in negotiations.

Stoke were prepared to meet those demands, paying around £6million to bring the versatile midfielder to the Championship on a permanent basis.

Devenny was immediately handed a place in the starting XI for Saturday’s home clash with Charlton Athletic and enjoyed a dream debut as Stoke cruised to a 4-0 victory.

He opened the scoring from the penalty spot after just 15 minutes before adding his second later in the contest to cap an impressive first appearance for his new club.

Scotland international George Hirst was also on the scoresheet, while former Dundee defender Luke Graham started at centre-back for the Potters.