Donati, 26, snapped up the number 18 jersey recently vacated by the former Hoops skipper after completing his £3million move from AC Milan. The significance of adopting that particular squad number has not been lost on the Italian midfielder. Lennon became a cult figure during his seven years at Celtic, before quitting the Scottish champions this summer for a fresh challenge at Nottingham Forest. But, far from being daunted by the prospect of such a comparison, Donati is so confident in his own ability that he believes he can be just as successful as Lennon. "I knew Lennon wore this shirt before and I understand it's a very important number," he said. "I understand the responsibility I have wearing this shirt. "I knew that the number was free and I want to wear it and honour the player that wore it before me and perhaps even try to do better." Unfortunately for Celtic fans, Donati also shares Lennon's lack of prowess in front of goal, averaging around a goal a season in Serie A. However he insists he has plenty to offer and is confident he will quickly adapt to life in the SPL. "As a midfielder I like doing everything," he said. "I like running the whole game, I like defending and attacking, I like doing every aspect of the game. "I love it all. "I like the way people play football here, the fact they play close to the ground rather than long balls. "I'm very happy about that and looking forward to playing here. "I haven't spoken directly to anyone who has had an experience here but everything I have heard about the experience in Scotland has been very positive." Donati was paraded to the Scottish press on Friday morning in the Parkhead boardroom, surrounded by the trophies the club have accumulated over the years, including last season's prizes. And he is determined to play a part in bringing more silverware to the east end of Glasgow this term. He said: "Coming from Italy, I've heard so many wonderful things about the club but seeing is believing. "Since I've been here it has been wonderful. I've only been here for 24 hours but so far it has been a fantastic experience. "I want to play in a winning team, a team that wins championships. I also really want to play in the Champions League." Celtic reportedly fought off strong competition from Sampdoria, Palermo and Atalanta - where Donati spent last season on loan - to land the man who cost AC Milan £10million back in 2001. The former Serie A star is well aware he now has to work hard to force his way into new boss Gordon Strachan's plans and says he is relishing the challenge. "There will be a high level of competition and I like to compete," he insisted. "And I like to play to win. "There are 20-23 people in a squad and each one of them has an important role, a part to play. "I like to play to my best level and to win." He added: "I was very surprised when I met Gordon Strachan because he is a man who has made history in football, played in two World Cups and been a very successful man. "But he is so friendly and he made me feel welcome right away. The rest of the management have also been so helpful."