Hanstviet starts Hoops trial

3rd December 2008

Erlend Hanstveit began his week-long trial at Celtic but refused to speculate on whether it would lead to a permanent move.

The Brann Bergen defender, 27, has been touted as a solution to the Scottish champions' left-back problem and would be available on a free transfer. The Norwegian club's captain has been offered a new deal to extend his 10-year stay there but he delayed a decision on his future until after a new head coach was appointed.

Hanstveit said in the Evening Times: "I was invited over here to train with Celtic for a week, so we will see how it goes before it eventually becomes something concrete."

With the departure of Bergen coach Mons Ivar Mjelde and the appointment of former Tromso boss Steinar Nilsen, Hanstveit is ready to act.

"Now the pieces fall into place and it will make it easier to decide," he said. "The new coach will be in place at Bergen in January, and it is likely I will make my decision about my future before the new year.

"Whatever happens, my relationship with Bergen will remain fine."