Celtic have completed the signing of Newcastle United goalkeeper Fraser Forster on a season-long loan.

The 22-year-old, who stands at 6ft 7in, impressed while on loan at Norwich last season and has also been farmed out to Bristol Rovers and Stockport.

"I'm here to provide competition and I aim to be number one," Forster said.

"I'm going to work as hard as I can and hopefully prove to the gaffer I should be playing. I've got to prove, if I'm playing, that I'm worthy of the shirt."

Celtic manager Neil Lennon revealed at the weekend that Forster came highly recommended.

"His age is the only thing going against him because otherwise he's all the qualities you look for," he said.

Forster helped Norwich win promotion to the Championship last season.

And manager Paul Lambert, the former Celtic midfielder, had hoped to bring Forster back to Carrow Road but was priced out of a move for the Englishman.

Burnley also made a move for the keeper in July, but at that time Newcastle were reluctant to let him leave.

MY SPORT: DEBATE Give your reaction to Celtic's latest signing

Forster, who was in Glasgow for a medical on Monday, has yet to play a first-team game for Newcastle and is third in the pecking order at St James' Park behind Steve Harper and Tim Krul.

Lukasz Zaluska has been Lennon's first-choice keeper this season, with Dominic Cervi providing back-up from the bench.

And Forster, who said he faced a difficult task in claiming the number one jersey, revealed Lambert's role in his move to Celtic.

"Paul told me what a big club it was and I relish the chance to come and perform," Forster said.

"He didn't have to sell it to me. He was a fantastic player here and did a lot for me last year, and I can't thank him enough for that.

"He told me I should get myself up here and sign the papers as quickly as possible."

The goalkeeper, who is currently recovering from a slight hip injury, is unavailable for the Europa League clash against Utrecht but hopes to press for a first-team place within the coming weeks.

"I'm just getting fit, I missed a few weeks and had a few days' training. I've been working hard in the gym and it shouldn't take too long."

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