Ljungberg back in Europe, signs for Celtic

Former FC Arsenal star Freddie Ljungberg is back in Europe with Scottish giants Celtic Glasgow after two years in the North American 'Major League Soccer'. Ljungberg has signed a short term contract until the end of the season and could play his first match tomorrow against Glasgow Rangers in the Old Firm derby.

Long time Swedish international Ljungberg started his career with Halmstads BK as a junior before he moved on to Arsenal FC, where he was one of the stars along with Thierry Henry, Jens Lehmann and others. He left the Gunners in 2007 due to numerous injuries and joined London rivals West Ham United, but also left them after only a season due to persisting injuries.

In summer 2008 it looked his career was over, then in late 2008 he signed a contract with MLS expansion team Seattle Sounders, but last July he was traded to Chicago Fire and at the end of the MLS season Ljungberg said that he would want to return to European football. Celtic Glasgow then offered him a one week trial which worked as manager Neil Lennon liked what he saw and Ljungberg was given a contract.

33 year old Ljungberg told the clubs official website: "I knew a lot about Celtic before I came here. It's a big club and there is great passion for football here. I like the way that Neil (Lennon) spoke to me, and how persistent the club were. I want to feel that passion again."

"I've got the number seven shirt, it's a great honour and I will wear it with pride and hopefully do it justice," Ljungberg added.

One will have to see if Ljungberg can recreate his old magic at Celtic as he is said to be fully injury free and wanting to prove himself in European football.