Leigh Griffiths has revealed that Derek Riordan was the player that inspired him to become a professional.
As a young Hibs fan ‘Deeks’ was the striker than Griffiths looked upto before going on to emulate his achievement of playing for Hibs and Celtic.
With his off-the-field controversies Riordan was a surprise signing for Gordon Strachan at the end of his first season in charge at Celtic Park.
The ability of the fair haired striker was never in doubt but a major question mark hung over him with questions over whether he had the dedication to make the most of his undoubted ability.
Life at Celtic wasn’t quite as straight-forward as at Easter Road with Riordan limited to just 13 starting appearances although he did manage to score eight goals plus a priceless penalty in the dramatic Champions League shoot out victory over Spartak Moscow.
Disillusioned he returned to Hibs two years later before his career wandered off to various outposts including Shaanxi Chanba in China, St Johnstone, Bristol Rovers, Brechin and Elgin City.