THE AMERICAN DREAM

Cameron Harper used his lockdown back home in California to work on every aspect of his game and is delighted to be back training with the Celtic first-team

- TONY CONNELLY

IT WASN’T just Cameron Harper’s performances in training with the first team that convinced Neil Lennon to include the 18-year-old in the squad for Celtic’s recent game against Dundee United at Tannadice.

The young winger’s attitude and work ethic have helped him take a significant stride forward in his career and he’s convinced that approach will help him continue his progression.

The young American has been living in Scotland for two years now after joining the Celtic Academy. Fittingly, it was Tommy Burns’ son Jonny who set Harper off on his path to Celtic after spotting him training with the USA Under-16s squad in Florida back in 2017.

Harper moved across the Atlantic as a 16-year-old in the summer of 2018 to sign for the Celtic Academy after impressing the coaches during his two trials. He made good progress in his first season in the reserves and had even been called up to train with the first team on a few occasions last season.

When the coronavirus crisis brought football to an abrupt halt earlier this year, Harper returned home to California to be with his family. He was understandably disappointed at not being able to do what he loved. However, he put the time in lockdown to good use and has been rewarded for his dedication.

“I went straight back home to the US just before lockdown fully kicked in,” said Harper in an exclusive interview with the Celtic View. “I’m from a place called Costa Mesa, which is in between San Diego and Los Angeles.

“Not being able to play football was frustrating, but it was good to be with the family for a few months.