Watch the real Carlton Cole on video
The top tier of the English game has virtually been a no go area for Celtic as television money transforms the finances of the game.
Carlton doesn’t seem to have captured the imagination of the Celtic support but his words of welcome suggest that he’s moved north for more than a decent paypacket.
“Being a Celt is not about the money, it’s about wearing the shirt with pride,” he told the Celtic website. “It was the same at West Ham, if you put on that shirt and wore it with pride, the fans would take to you.
“I had a good rapport with the fans and that’s what I’m here for, as I can see the same sort of thing at Celtic.
“As soon as I came here everyone was explaining to me, even the taxi drivers, how much the club means to them, that’s what I wanted to hear and I want to hopefully be a hero to them.”
Cole added: “It’s a big relief, just to be a part of such a big club and make friends, that’s what I’ve wanted since the summer started and when Celtic said they wanted me at the club, I just ran over.
“I’ve been up here alone for the past two or three weeks and I’ve settled in really well. The people of Glasgow are really welcoming and I’ve had just a great rapport with people.
“There were other clubs interested but I showed my commitment to stay here when I was injured. You can’t really sign an injured player but Celtic accommodated me well and I thought this was the best place for me to be.
“The players have taken to me well and I’ve taken to them and there’s a great atmosphere in the changing room and I just wanted to be part of it.”