Georgios Samaras

Samaras was born in Heraklion, the capital city of the Greek island of Crete to a Melbourne-born father who had settled back in Greece before Georgios' birth.{{Cite web|last=Lynch|first=Michael|date=2006-05-24|title=Star who slipped the net|url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/soccer/star-who-slipped-the-net-20060524-ge2dif.html|access-date=2021-08-25|website=The Age|archive-date=25 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210825053311/https://www.theage.com.au/sport/soccer/star-who-slipped-the-net-20060524-ge2dif.html|url-status=live}} His grandfather, also called Georgios, was from Arnaia[https://www.dokari.gr/sports/podosfairo/story/12219/thrinei-o-giorgos-samaras-ehase-ena-apo-ta-pio-agapimena-toy-prosopa Θρηνεί ο Γιώργος Σαμαρά dokari.gt] and was also one of the founders of Australian side South Melbourne FC.

His favourite footballer growing up was Marco van Basten. Samaras was also a keen basketball fan and his father, Ioannis Samaras, often let him stay up until the early hours of the morning so he could watch his hero Michael Jordan.{{cite book

|title=The Official Celtic FC Annual 2010

|year=2009

|publisher= Grange Communications

|isbn=978-1-906211-74-5

|page=58}}

In 1994, when he was 10 years old, Samaras joined his boyhood heroes, OFI.{{cite book

|title=The Official Celtic FC Annual 2011|year=2010|publisher= Grange Communications|isbn=978-1-907104-60-2|page=59}} His father was playing for them at the time and then retired in 1996. Six months later, he became Academy chief manager, a position he retained until 2000, when he became manager. Samaras credits his father highly with helping start his football career. His influence meant that Samaras trained every day of his childhood and he also got to spend a lot of time behind the scenes at OFI. Samaras left for Eredivisie club Heerenveen in 2001.{{cite news|url=http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/sport/football/s/207/207404_city_samaras_can_be_the_new_goat.html|title=City: Samaras can be the new Goat|work=Manchester Evening News|date=10 March 2006|access-date=27 November 2011|archive-date=18 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118203929/http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/sport/football/s/207/207404_city_samaras_can_be_the_new_goat.html|url-status=live

}}

Samaras broke into the Heerenveen team during the 2002–03 season, still aged only 18. He scored three goals in his first four appearances, all of which were from the bench.{{cite news|title=Heerenveen braced for Samaras loss|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/01b1-0e6d5db52060-be4543cc1776-1000--heerenveen-braced-for-samaras-loss/|publisher=UEFA|date=28 January 2006|access-date=12 January 2011|archive-date=17 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120117215052/http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/newsid=389866.html|url-status=live}} This form prompted Heerenveen activate a three-year extension clause in his contract.{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2262588/|title=Heerenveen put faith in youth|publisher=Sky Sports|date= 10 April 2003|access-date=29 November 2011|archive-date=18 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141118053257/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2262588/|url-status=live}}

Samaras' first goal of the 2003–04 season came, on 25 October, in a shock 2–1 loss for Heerenveen against NEC Nijmegen.{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11912/2279639/|title=Eredivisie Round-Up|publisher=Sky Sports|date=25 October 2003|access-date=8 December 2011|archive-date=18 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141118081854/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11912/2279639/|url-status=live}} On 3 December, Samaras scored as Heerenveen beat ADO Den Haag 2–0.{{cite news|url=https://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11912/2282835/|title=Eredivisie round-up|publisher=Sky Sports|date=3 December 2003|access-date=8 December 2011|archive-date=15 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160215171855/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11912/2282835|url-status=live}} His next goal came 10 days later as he scored an equaliser to secure a draw 1–1 for Heerenveen against RBC Roosendaal.{{cite news|url=https://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11914/2283821/|title=Eredivisie round-up|publisher=Sky Sports|date=13 December 2003|access-date=8 December 2011|archive-date=15 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160215171856/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11914/2283821|url-status=live}} He then scored on 20 December, as Heerenveen beat Roda JC 2–1.{{cite news|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11914/2284740/|title=Eredivisie Round-Up|publisher=Sky Sports|date=20 December 2003|access-date = 8 December 2011|archive-date=18 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141118101314/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11914/2284740/|url-status=live}}

Samaras' first goal of the 2004–05 season came on 11 September, in a 2–0 win over De Graafschap.{{cite news|url=https://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11914/2310263/|title=Eredivisie Round-up|publisher=Sky Sports|date=11 September 2004|access-date=8 December 2011|archive-date=15 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160215171855/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11914/2310263|url-status=live}} He then scored a last-minute winner on 3 October, as Heerenveen secure all three points against ADO Den Haag.{{cite news

| url = http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11912/2312640/

| title = Eredivisie Round-up

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 3 October 2004

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118060333/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11912/2312640/

| url-status = live

}} On 28 November, Samaras scored one of Heerenveen's goals as they staged a late comeback against title-chasing Feyenoord, and secured a 2–2 draw.{{cite news

| url = http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11912/2318384/

| title = Eredivisie Round-Up

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 28 November 2004

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118101322/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11912/2318384/

| url-status = live

}} He then scored on 22 January, as Heerenveen, who were performing very well in the Eredivisie, beat Den Bosch 2–1.{{cite news

| url = http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11914/2324771/

| title = Eredivisie round-up

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 22 January 2004

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118051019/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11914/2324771/

| url-status = live

}} On 12 March, Samaras scored an equaliser against RKC Waalwijk, but Heerenveen then conceded a late goal and fell to a 2–1 defeat.{{cite news

| url = http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2329355/

| title = Eredivisie round-up

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 12 March 2005

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118101305/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2329355/

| url-status = live

}} On 2 April, Samaras scored to help Heerenveen secure a shock 2–1 victory over Ajax.{{cite news

| url = http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11913/2331391/

| title = Eredivisie round-up

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 2 April 2005

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118050856/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11913/2331391/

| url-status = live

}} A fortnight later, Samaras scored the equaliser as Heerenveen came from behind to beat Vitesse Arnhem 3–1. This win moved Heerenveen up to fifth in the table.{{cite news

| url = http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2332681/

| title = Eredivisie round-up

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 16 April 2005

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118101257/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2332681/

| url-status = live

}} In the next match Samaras, along with Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, scored a hat-trick as relegation candidates RBC Roosendaal were defeated 7–1 and Heerenveen pushed to finish the league in a European spot.{{cite news

| url = http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2333412/

| title = Heerenveen hit seven

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 22 April 2005

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 6 April 2013

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130406060642/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2333412/

| url-status = live

}}

At the start of the 2005–06 season, Sevilla were reported to be interested in Samaras as a replacement for Júlio Baptista.{{cite news

| url = http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11675/2345091/

| title = Sevilla target Kanoute

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 9 August 2005

| access-date = 29 November 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118101253/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11675/2345091/

| url-status = live

}} While Arsenal were also looking at him after they had missed out on signing Baptista, some news organisations had reported that Arsenal had already signed Samaras and that he would join at the end of the season. However, the player's father, Ioannis Samaras said that this was untrue and that his son wanted to stay at the club for another year.{{cite news

| url = https://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11670/2338526/

| title = Gunners rumour scotched

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 31 July 2005

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 15 February 2016

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160215171855/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11670/2338526

| url-status = live

}} Samaras scored on the opening day of the season, on 20 August, when he helped Heerenveen to a 5–4 victory over Roda JC.{{cite news

| url = http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11913/2346569/

| title = Eredivisie Round-Up

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 20 August 2005

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118060246/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11913/2346569/

| url-status = live

}} He picked up a minor leg injury in September, which ruled him out of Heerenveen's UEFA Cup tie against Baník Ostrava.{{cite news

| url = http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2348143/

| title = Kissi out of Uefa Cup tie

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 14 September 2005

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118052623/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2348143/

| url-status = live

}} But he returned to action on 23 September, and scored as Heerenveen beat NEC Nijmegen 2–1.{{cite news

| url = http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2350208/

| title = Heerenveen beat NEC

| publisher = Sky Sports

| date = 23 September 2005

| access-date = 3 December 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118081904/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11917/2350208/

| url-status = live

}} On 14 December, Samaras scored as Heerenveen came back from behind to beat Levski Sofia 2–1 in the UEFA Cup.{{cite news

| url = https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/match/81989--heerenveen-vs-levski/

| title = Heerenveen-Levski

| publisher = UEFA

| date = 14 December 2005

| access-date = 28 November 2011

| archive-date = 15 February 2016

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160215171854/http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2005/matches/round=2209/match=81989/index.html

| url-status = live

}} On 30 December, Samaras scored twice as Heerenveen beat Ajax 4–2.{{cite news

| url = http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=192205&cc=5901&league=NED.1

| archive-url = https://archive.today/20130102214314/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=192205&cc=5901&league=NED.1

| url-status = dead

| archive-date = 2 January 2013

| title = Heerenveen 4–2 Ajax Amsterdam

| publisher = ESPN

| work = Soccernet

| date = 30 December 2005

| access-date = 28 November 2011

}} In January 2006, Arsenal and Manchester City showed interest in signing the striker.[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4602012.stm Arsenal show interest in Samaras] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170811145658/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4602012.stm |date=11 August 2017 }} BBC Sport, 11 January 2006. Retrieved 18 June 2012 Samaras tried to get released from his contract after Heerenveen had rejected a bid from Manchester City. However, the Dutch arbitration commission ruled that he had no grounds to end his contract.{{cite news |title=Man City target may go on strike |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/4617492.stm |publisher=BBC Sport |date=27 January 2006 |access-date=13 January 2011 |archive-date=20 July 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060720030709/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/4617492.stm |url-status=live }} Samaras scored 25 goals in 88 appearances for Heerenveen.[http://www.soccerbase.com/players/player.sd?player_id=34693 Georgios Samaras] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103135907/http://www.soccerbase.com/players/player.sd?player_id=34693 |date=3 November 2012 }} Soccerbase. Retrieved 18 June 2012

Samaras moved to Manchester City on 30 January 2006 for a fee of £6 million,{{cite news |title=Samaras seals £6m Man City switch |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/4658660.stm |publisher=BBC Sport |date=30 January 2006 |access-date=20 August 2010 |archive-date=19 February 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060219153525/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/4658660.stm |url-status=live }} a record for a Greek player. He was given the number 20 shirt.{{cite news| url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/spl/celtic/georgios-samaras-has-all-the-attributes-to-be-a-lethal-weapon-for-celtic-but-his-inconsistency-still-frustrates-1.991402| title=Georgios Samaras has all the attributes to be a lethal weapon for Celtic but his inconsistency still frustrates| work=The Herald|location=Glasgow| date=1 December 2009| access-date=16 May 2011| archive-date=11 October 2012| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011155357/http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/spl/celtic/georgios-samaras-has-all-the-attributes-to-be-a-lethal-weapon-for-celtic-but-his-inconsistency-still-frustrates-1.991402| url-status=live}} Samaras made his debut for City on 1 February, as a 65th-minute replacement for Cole in a 3–0 home win against Newcastle United.{{cite news |title=Man City 3–0 Newcastle |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4657216.stm |publisher=BBC Sport |date=1 February 2006 |access-date=13 January 2011 |archive-date=8 February 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060208035825/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4657216.stm |url-status=live }} His first goal for the club came in the following home match, against Charlton Athletic.{{cite news |title=Samaras Eyes Europe |url=http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/sport/football/manchester_city/s/204/204556_samaras_eyes_europe.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130421041007/http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/sport/football/manchester_city/s/204/204556_samaras_eyes_europe.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=21 April 2013 |work=Manchester Evening News |date=15 February 2006 }} The following month Samaras scored in a 2–1 home win against Aston Villa, to put City through to the quarter-finals of the League Cup. This was his fourth goal in six appearances.{{cite news

| url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2333715/Samaras-gives-City-chance-to-dream.html

| title = Samaras gives City chance to dream

| work = The Telegraph

| date = 15 March 2006

| access-date = 28 November 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118053410/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2333715/Samaras-gives-City-chance-to-dream.html

| url-status = live

}} Samaras scored one further goal that season, in a 2–1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4867580.stm

| title = Tottenham 2–1 Man City

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 8 April 2006

| access-date = 3 December 2011

| archive-date = 11 April 2006

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060411152339/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4867580.stm

| url-status = live

}}

Samaras' first goal of the 2006–07 season came on 20 September, in a 2–1 loss in the League Cup to League One side Chesterfield.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/5351868.stm

| title = Chesterfield 2–1 Man City

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 20 September 2006

| access-date = 3 December 2011

| archive-date = 5 November 2021

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211105215309/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/league_cup/5351868.stm

| url-status = live

}} Four days later, Samaras scored twice, as Manchester City beat West Ham United 2–0. City had won just three of their previous 16 games, and the club, as well as Samaras, had been receiving a lot of criticism from fans.{{cite news

| url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2346440/Samaras-lifts-City-gloom.html

| title = Samaras lifts City gloom

| work = The Telegraph

| date = 24 September 2006

| access-date = 3 December 2011

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118071131/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2346440/Samaras-lifts-City-gloom.html

| url-status = live

}}

On 2 January, Samaras came on as a half-time substitute, and scored twice, as they beat Everton 2–1.{{cite news

| url = https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/manchester-city-2-everton-1-samaras-wakes-pearces-men-from-slumber-430503.html

| title = Manchester City 2 Everton 1: Samaras wakes Pearce's men from slumber

| work = The Independent

| date = 2 January 2007

| access-date = 3 December 2011

| archive-date = 15 February 2016

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160215171854/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/manchester-city-2-everton-1-samaras-wakes-pearces-men-from-slumber-430503.html

| url-status = live

}}

In March, the Daily Mirror reported that the reason Manchester City were struggling so badly was that they didn't have any quality strikers. They went on say that the £6 million spent on Samaras looked like "very bad business" especially compared to the £2.5 million Blackburn Rovers had spent on Benni McCarthy. They also described Samaras as looking like a "fish out of water" as he struggled to adapt to the different style of play in England.{{cite news

| url = https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/tm_headline=tame-city-in-a-stu--&method=full&objectid=18733314&siteid=115875-name_page.html

| title = tame city in a stu

| work = Daily Mirror

| date = 10 March 2007

| access-date = 3 December 2011

| archive-date = 5 November 2021

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211105215239/https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/tame-city-in-a-stu-655271

| url-status = live

}} On 10 March, defender Richard Dunne said that he felt the reason that City were performing so badly was that their foreign players, including Samaras, were letting the side down by not working hard enough. Samaras responded to his criticisms, by saying that he felt it was Pearce's fault that he wasn't playing well because the manager wasn't giving him a regular run of games. He also said that he felt a lot of criticism stemmed from his high transfer fee, saying that it is normal for expensive players to be criticised more than most when they don't play well. Samaras also said that he had come through tougher periods than this and his self-belief would not be shaken, he said that his desire was to become a Champions League player.

Sven-Göran Eriksson took over from Pearce for the 2007–08 season and, following a spending spree, Samaras was reportedly deemed surplus to requirements by the new manager. Samaras' agent Paul Koutsoliakos said that, despite interest from across Europe, his client wanted to stay in the Premier League and prove his ability.{{cite news

| url = https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/samaras-keen-to-stay-in-england-if-cut-loose-by-city-463489.html

| title = Samaras keen to stay in England if cut loose by City

| work = The Independent

| date = 30 August 2007

| access-date = 3 December 2011

| archive-date = 15 February 2016

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160215171854/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/samaras-keen-to-stay-in-england-if-cut-loose-by-city-463489.html

| url-status = dead

}} Samaras was linked with a £2.5 million move to Middlesbrough towards the end of the transfer window but ended up staying at City.{{cite news

| url = https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/2007/08/29/southgate-closes-in-on-samaras-115875-19703333/

| title = Southgate closes in on Samaras

| work = Daily Mirror

| date = 29 August 2007

| access-date = 3 December 2011

| archive-date = 5 November 2021

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211105215238/https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/southgate-closes-in-on-samaras-715103

| url-status = live

}} Eriksson stated that although he was unimpressed with Samaras when he first joined, he felt the player had improved and adapted his style of play a lot during pre-season and that he now felt comfortable keeping him at the club.{{cite news

| url = https://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/23390/Sven-sick-of-Samaras-tricks

| title = sven sick of samaras tricks

| work = Daily Express

| date = 28 October 2007

| access-date = 3 December 2011

| archive-date = 5 November 2021

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211105215254/https://www.express.co.uk/sport/othersport/23390/Sven-sick-of-Samaras-tricks

| url-status = live

}}

Samaras had been widely criticised, and even booed, by City fans at times during the previous season and Eriksson said that he hoped it would not happen again and that he appreciated why Samaras could have found it hard to play under those circumstances. Samaras was behind the likes of Valeri Bojinov and Rolando Bianchi in the pecking order and was included in the squad for the first time only on 25 September, when he was selected for a League Cup match against Norwich City. He started the match and scored a last-minute winner to put Manchester City into the quarter-final.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/7008012.stm

| title = Man City 1–0 Norwich

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 25 September 2007

| access-date = 3 December 2011

| archive-date = 15 December 2019

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191215035725/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/7008012.stm

| url-status = live

}}

By the time the January transfer window came, Eriksson had decided to sell Samaras, amongst others, to try and raise funds for the club.{{cite news

| url = https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/2008/01/11/sven-can-only-spend-10m-115875-20281791/

| title = Sven can only spend £10m

| work = Daily Mirror

| date = 11 January 2008

| access-date = 11 December 2011

| archive-date = 5 November 2021

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211105215238/https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/sven-can-only-spend-10m-720709

| url-status = live

}} Birmingham City had chased him for several weeks and had a £2.5 million offer accepted, meeting Manchester City's valuation of the player, but they pulled out of the deal with a week of the transfer window remaining.{{cite news

| url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2289723/Alex-McLeish-abandons-Georgios-Samaras-bid.html

| title = Alex McLeish abandons Georgios Samaras bid

| work = The Telegraph

| date = 22 January 2008

| access-date = 11 December 2011

| archive-date = 15 February 2016

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160215171854/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2289723/Alex-McLeish-abandons-Georgios-Samaras-bid.html

| url-status = live

}} Several teams including Rangers, Middlesbrough, Espanyol, Bolton Wanderers and Charlton Athletic had expressed an interest in signing him, but it was Celtic to whom he eventually moved.

Samaras failed to get a regular place in the first team over the two years he was at Manchester City. Mainly used as a substitute, he scored 12 goals in 63 appearances for the Eastlands club.[http://soccernet.espn.go.com/player/_/id/26416/georgios-samaras?cc=5739 Georgios Samaras] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102061739/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/player/_/id/26416/georgios-samaras?cc=5739 |date=2 November 2012 }} ESPN Soccernet

On 29 January 2008, Samaras signed for Scottish Premier League club Celtic on a six-month loan deal, with the club having an option to buy him at the end of his loan spell. He said that he wanted the move because he needed to be playing first team football to get into the Greece squad for Euro 2008. He also said that he was attracted to the fact that he would regularly be able to play in European competition with Celtic.{{cite news

| url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2290353/Samaras-joins-Celtic-on-loan-from-Man-City.html

| title = Samaras joins Celtic on loan from Man City

| work = The Telegraph

| date = 29 January 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118052305/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2290353/Samaras-joins-Celtic-on-loan-from-Man-City.html

| url-status = live

}}{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/7214941.stm

| title = Celtic make double signing swoop

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 29 January 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 1 February 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080201140728/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/7214941.stm

| url-status = live

}}

Samaras was given the number 9 shirt and made his debut on 4 February, in a 5–1 win in the Scottish Cup over Kilmarnock. He scored the final goal of the game after coming on as a substitute.{{cite news

| url = http://www.heraldscotland.com/kilmarnock-1-5-celtic-1.873963

| title = Kilmarnock 1 – 5 Celtic

| work = The Herald|location=Glasgow

| date = 4 February 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 8 October 2012

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121008045814/http://www.heraldscotland.com/kilmarnock-1-5-celtic-1.873963

| url-status = live

}} On 20 February, he came on as a substitute in Celtic's 3–2 defeat to Barcelona, this was his first ever Champions League match.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/7250340.stm

| title = Celtic 2–3 Barcelona

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 20 February 2008

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 25 February 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080225155101/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/7250340.stm

| url-status = live

}} A week later he scored the winner in a 2–1 win over Inverness Caledonian Thistle to help Celtic keep up the pressure on league leaders Rangers.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7264042.stm

| title = Celtic 2–1 Inverness CT

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 27 February 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 3 March 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080303065608/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7264042.stm

| url-status = live

}} He then scored in Celtic's next match, a 2–0 win over Hibernian, after coming on as a substitute.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7270212.stm

| title = Hibernian 0–2 Celtic

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 1 March 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 5 March 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080305010819/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7270212.stm

| url-status = live

}} Samaras' next goal came on 23 March, he again came on as a substitute and rounded off the scoring in a 3–0 win over Gretna.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7306432.stm

| title = Gretna 0–3 Celtic

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 23 March 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 25 March 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080325090359/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7306432.stm

| url-status = live

}} On 19 April, he scored the only goal of the game as Celtic beat Aberdeen 1–0, and moved to the top of the league for the first time in 2008.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7353577.stm

| title = Celtic 1–0 Aberdeen

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 19 April 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 24 April 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080424032031/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7353577.stm

| url-status = live

}} The next month, on 3 May, Samaras again came on as a substitute and scored the winner. His goal gave Celtic a 2–1 victory over Motherwell and kept up Celtic's late challenge for the league title.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7379011.stm

| title = Motherwell 1–2 Celtic

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 3 May 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 17 May 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140517152352/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7379011.stm

| url-status = live

}} Celtic won the title on the last day of the season, 22 May, by beating Dundee United 1–0. Samaras came on as a late substitute and collected his first winners' medal after the match.{{cite news

| url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2301271/Celtic-win-third-successive-SPL-title.html

| title = Celtic win third successive SPL title

| work = The Daily Telegraph

| date = 22 May 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 18 November 2014

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141118081551/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2301271/Celtic-win-third-successive-SPL-title.html

| url-status = live

}}

Samaras' contribution in the second half of the season proved vital to Celtic winning the title, he scored several important goals which kept alive Celtic's faltering title hopes.{{cite news

| url = https://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/may/04/scottishpremierleague.motherwell

| title = Samaras proves Celtic's saviour

| work = The Guardian

| date = 4 May 2008

| access-date = 8 December 2011

| archive-date = 16 September 2015

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150916005944/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/may/04/scottishpremierleague.motherwell

| url-status = live

}} His signing was also credited with reviving the previously underperforming Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink.

File:Georgio Samaras Celtic.jpg

After his successful loan spell,{{cite news

|url = http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/2008/06/02/werder-bremen-could-snatch-away-celtic-loan-star-georgios-samaras-86908-20592046/

|title = Werder Bremen could snatch away Celtic loan star Georgios Samaras

|work = Daily Record

|date = 2 June 2008

|access-date = 11 December 2011

|archive-date = 5 June 2008

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080605020749/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/2008/06/02/werder-bremen-could-snatch-away-celtic-loan-star-georgios-samaras-86908-20592046/

|url-status = live

}} Samaras left Manchester City on 15 July 2008 and signed a three-year contract with Celtic.{{cite news

| url = http://www.heraldscotland.com/celtic-sign-samaras-from-man-city-1.884640

| title = Celtic sign Samaras from Man City

| work = The Herald|location=Glasgow

| date = 15 July 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 8 October 2012

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121008050038/http://www.heraldscotland.com/celtic-sign-samaras-from-man-city-1.884640

| url-status = live

}} Although the fee was not disclosed, it was reported to be around £3 million.{{cite news

| url = https://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/jul/15/celtic.auxerre

| title = Samaras leaves City to complete Celtic switch

| work = The Guardian

| date = 15 July 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 25 April 2015

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150425131812/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/jul/15/celtic.auxerre

| url-status = live

}}{{cite news

|url = http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/2008/07/15/celtic-sign-georgios-samaras-on-three-year-deal-86908-20644436/

|title = Celtic sign Georgios Samaras on three-year deal

|work = Daily Record

|date = 15 July 2008

|access-date = 11 December 2011

|archive-date = 7 August 2008

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080807064842/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/2008/07/15/celtic-sign-georgios-samaras-on-three-year-deal-86908-20644436/

|url-status = live

}}{{cite news

|url = https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=afNjTAv7Rt88&refer=latin_america

|title = Tottenham May Sign Striker Luis Garcia, Sun Reports: Roundup

|publisher = Bloomberg News

|date = 11 July 2008

|access-date = 11 December 2011

|url-status = dead

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20111217223239/http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive

|archive-date = 17 December 2011

}}{{cite news

|url = http://www.scotsman.com/sport/samaras_signs_three_year_deal_at_celtic_1_1266552

|title = Samaras signs three-year deal at Celtic

|work = The Scotsman

|date = 15 July 2008

|access-date = 11 December 2011

|archive-date = 15 February 2016

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160215171854/http://www.scotsman.com/sport/samaras_signs_three_year_deal_at_celtic_1_1266552

|url-status = live

}} Samaras' first goals of the 2008–09 season came on 23 August. He scored twice as Celtic beat Falkirk 3–0.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7575843.stm

| title = Celtic 3–0 Falkirk

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 23 August 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 29 August 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080829161808/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7575843.stm

| url-status = live

}} On 13 September, he scored another two goals as Celtic beat Motherwell 4–2.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7611546.stm

| title = Motherwell 2–4 Celtic

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 13 September 2008

| access-date = 11 December 2011

| archive-date = 19 September 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080919212216/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7611546.stm

| url-status = live

}} He scored twice again in Celtic's next match as they beat Kilmarnock 3–1.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7624437.stm

| title = Kilmarnock 1–3 Celtic

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 21 September 2008

| access-date = 11 December 2011

| archive-date = 23 September 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080923234407/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7624437.stm

| url-status = live

}} He then scored another two goals as Celtic beat Livingston 4–0 and advanced to the League Cup quarter-final.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/7629596.stm

| title = Celtic 4–0 Livingston

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 23 September 2008

| access-date = 11 December 2011

| archive-date = 25 September 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080925192536/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/7629596.stm

| url-status = live

}} He was named SPL Player of the Month for September, at this point he was also the top scorer with seven goals.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7649064.stm

| title = Strachan and Samaras net awards

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 3 October 2008

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 4 October 2008

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081004203443/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7649064.stm

| url-status = live

}}

Samaras suffered a knee cartilage injury in mid-October, after a successful operation he was expected to be out for a month. This meant he would be likely to miss crucial Champions League ties against Manchester United and Aalborg.{{cite news

|url = http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/celtic/2008/10/23/celtic-hitman-georgios-samaras-faces-fitness-battle-for-aalborg-crunch-86908-20831044/

|title = Celtic hitman Georgios Samaras faces fitness battle for Aalborg crunch

|work = Daily Record

|date = 23 October 2008

|access-date = 11 December 2011

|archive-date = 29 January 2012

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120129233603/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/celtic/2008/10/23/celtic-hitman-georgios-samaras-faces-fitness-battle-for-aalborg-crunch-86908-20831044/

|url-status = live

}} He returned earlier than expected and was back in training on 9 November, having missed seven games.{{cite news

|url = http://www.scotsman.com/sport/samaras_in_training_but_injury_crisis_far_from_over_1_1146108

|title = Samaras in training but injury crisis far from over

|work = The Scotsman

|date = 10 November 2008

|access-date = 11 December 2011

|archive-date = 15 February 2016

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160215171854/http://www.scotsman.com/sport/samaras_in_training_but_injury_crisis_far_from_over_1_1146108

|url-status = live

}} Samaras returned to action on 12 November, coming on as a substitute in a 3–0 win over Kilmarnock.{{cite news

|url = http://www.kilmarnockfc.co.uk/articles/20081112/celtic-3-kilmarnock-0_85931_45547

|title = Celtic 3 – Kilmarnock 0

|publisher = Kilmarnock FC

|date = 12 November 2008

|access-date = 11 December 2011

|url-status = dead

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120602143652/http://www.kilmarnockfc.co.uk/articles/20081112/celtic-3-kilmarnock-0_85931_45547

|archive-date = 2 June 2012

}} On 25 November he started against Aalborg but did not play well and missed several chances as Celtic lost 2–1. This loss consigned Celtic to a bottom place finish in their group.{{cite news

|url = https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/2008/11/27/we-need-a-treble-to-ease-our-torment-86908-20928095/

|title = Celtic must win treble to ease Euro heartache, says Georgios Samaras

|work = Daily Record

|date = 27 November 2008

|access-date = 11 December 2011

|archive-date = 5 November 2021

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211105215240/https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/other-sports/celtic-must-win-treble-to-ease-999448

|url-status = live

}}

His first goals of the new year came on, on 4 January, as he scored twice against Dundee United. However, this was not enough for a victory and the match finished 2–2.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7805909.stm

| title = Celtic 2–2 Dundee United

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 4 January 2008

| access-date = 11 December 2011

| archive-date = 5 November 2021

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211105215240/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7805909.stm

| url-status = live

}} Although he did not start in the League Cup Final due to poor form,{{cite news

| url = https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/mar/15/scottish-co-operative-insurance-cup-final-celtic-rangers-odea

| title = Celtic triumph over Rangers to win cup

| work = The Guardian

| date = 15 March 2009

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 19 March 2015

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150319032503/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/mar/15/scottish-co-operative-insurance-cup-final-celtic-rangers-odea

| url-status = live

}} he did come on as a substitute as Celtic beat Rangers 2–0 and won the trophy.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/7941624.stm

| title = Celtic 2–0 Rangers

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 15 March 2009

| access-date = 18 June 2012

| archive-date = 19 March 2009

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090319024654/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/7941624.stm

| url-status = live

}} Samaras scored twice on 4 April, as Celtic beat Hamilton Academical 4–0.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7980358.stm

| title = Celtic 4–0 Hamilton Accies

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 4 April 2009

| access-date = 11 December 2011

| archive-date = 6 April 2009

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090406054840/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7980358.stm

| url-status = live

}} Celtic lost the title on the last day of the season.{{cite news

|url = http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/celtic/2009/05/25/celtic-s-spl-title-loss-hugh-keevins-verdict-86908-21387482/

|title = Celtic's SPL title loss – Hugh Keevins' verdict

|work = Daily Record

|date = 25 May 2009

|access-date = 11 December 2011

|archive-date = 28 January 2012

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120128205018/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/celtic/2009/05/25/celtic-s-spl-title-loss-hugh-keevins-verdict-86908-21387482/

|url-status = live

}} Samaras scored 17 goals, with 15 of them coming in the SPL. This made him the third top scorer behind Kris Boyd and teammate Scott McDonald.{{cite news

|url=http://www.scotprem.com/content/default.asp?page=home_statistics

|title=SPL: 2008/09 – Top Scorers

|publisher=SPL

|access-date=11 December 2011

|url-status=dead

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110612200756/http://www.scotprem.com/content/default.asp?page=home_Statistics

|archive-date=12 June 2011

}}

File:Georgios Samaras.png]]

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan left at the end of the season and was replaced by Tony Mowbray.{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/celtic/6057158/Arsenals-quality-may-prove-too-much-for-Celtic-to-match-says-Georgios-Samaras.html |title=Arsenal's quality may prove too much for Celtic to match, says Georgios Samaras |work=The Telegraph |date=19 August 2009 |access-date=11 December 2011 |archive-date=10 May 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110510211556/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/celtic/6057158/Arsenals-quality-may-prove-too-much-for-Celtic-to-match-says-Georgios-Samaras.html |url-status=live }} On 5 August, Samaras scored in injury time of Celtic's Champions League third qualifying round tie against Dynamo Moscow. This goal won Celtic the tie, 2–1 on aggregate, and helped them to their first European away win in six years.{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8178985.stm |title=D'mo Moscow 0–2 Celtic (agg 1–2) |publisher=BBC Sport |date=5 August 2009 |access-date=11 December 2011 |archive-date=5 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105215242/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/8178985.stm |url-status=live }} Celtic then drew English Premier League club Arsenal, but lost 5–1 on aggregate and subsequently dropped into the Europa League.{{cite news |url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=676980&sec=europe&root=europe&cc=5739 |title=Europa League can provide unexpected Celtic cheer |publisher=ESPN Soccernet |date=17 September 2009 |access-date=11 December 2011 |archive-date=28 September 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090928074631/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=676980&sec=europe&root=europe&cc=5739 |url-status=dead }} On 13 December, Samaras scored in Celtic's 3–2 win over Motherwell, this was his fifth goal in the club's previous four matches.{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/sport/motherwell_2_3_celtic_stylish_georgios_samaras_has_turned_the_tables_to_propel_celtic_1_782706 |title=Motherwell 2 – 3 Celtic: Stylish Georgios Samaras has turned the tables to propel Celtic |work=The Scotsman |date=13 December 2009 |access-date=11 December 2011 |archive-date=25 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150225170556/http://www.scotsman.com/sport/motherwell_2_3_celtic_stylish_georgios_samaras_has_turned_the_tables_to_propel_celtic_1_782706 |url-status=live }} He scored in Celtic's 2–1 defeat against Hearts on 19 December. This left Celtic four points behind rivals Rangers going into Christmas.{{Cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/8410919.stm |title=Football – Hearts 2-1 Celtic |date=20 December 2009 |access-date=27 December 2019 |archive-date=27 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191227113320/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/8410919.stm |url-status=live }} From February onwards, Samaras was mainly played out of position on the left of midfield.{{cite news |url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/celtic/2010/08/19/celtic-hitman-georgios-samaras-keen-to-shake-off-enigma-tag-86908-22497853/ |title=Celtic hitman Georgios Samaras keen to shake off 'enigma' tag |work=Daily Record |date=19 August 2010 |access-date=11 December 2011 |archive-date=4 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120204014531/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/celtic/2010/08/19/celtic-hitman-georgios-samaras-keen-to-shake-off-enigma-tag-86908-22497853/ |url-status=live }}

Celtic endured a dismal season, culminating in a humiliating 2–0 loss to lower league Ross County in the semi-final of the Scottish Cup.{{cite web|last=Gibson|first=Fraser|title=Celtic 0–2 Ross County|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/8609777.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=25 February 2015|date=10 April 2010|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105215244/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_cups/8609777.stm|url-status=live}} Samaras missed a chance to equalise in that match when the score was only 1–0 to County, and he was amongst several players publicly criticised by caretaker manager Neil Lennon.{{cite web|title=Neil Lennon: I don't know Celtic future after Ross County humiliation|url=http://sport.stv.tv/football/clubs/celtic/169449-neil-lennon-i-dont-know-celtic-future-after-ross-county-humiliation/|publisher=STV Sport|access-date=25 February 2015|date=11 April 2010|archive-date=25 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150225170616/http://sport.stv.tv/football/clubs/celtic/169449-neil-lennon-i-dont-know-celtic-future-after-ross-county-humiliation/|url-status=dead}} Samaras finished the season with 10 league goals and 12 in all competitions.

Samaras began the 2010–11 season in good form, scoring his first goal in a Europa League tie against FC Utrecht with a chest down and finish to make it 2–0, sending Celtic into the second leg with a lead.{{cite news |url=http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/europa-league/2010-2011/celtic-fc-utrecht-383801.html |title=Dynamic Celtic sink Utrecht |publisher=Yahoo!/Eurosport |date=19 August 2010 |access-date=19 June 2012 |archive-date=18 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120918223008/http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/europa-league/2010-2011/celtic-fc-utrecht-383801.html |url-status=live }} On 22 September 2010, he scored a hat-trick in a 6–0 win over Inverness Caledonian Thistle in the League Cup.{{cite news |url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/cups/league-cup/2010/09/23/celtic-boss-neil-lennon-hails-hat-trick-hero-georgios-samaras-as-caley-thistle-are-given-six-of-the-best-86908-22581663/ |title=Celtic boss Neil Lennon hails hat-trick hero Georgios Samaras as Caley Thistle are given six of the best |work=Daily Record |date=23 September 2010 |access-date=19 June 2012 |archive-date=30 October 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101030061015/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/cups/league-cup/2010/09/23/celtic-boss-neil-lennon-hails-hat-trick-hero-georgios-samaras-as-caley-thistle-are-given-six-of-the-best-86908-22581663/ |url-status=live }} However, the goals then dried up with Samaras failing to score again in 2010.{{cite web|title=Games involving Samaras, Georgios in season 2010/2011|url=http://www.fitbastats.com/celtic/player_games.php?playerid=2943&page=4|publisher=FitbaStats|access-date=26 February 2015|archive-date=26 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150226033313/http://www.fitbastats.com/celtic/player_games.php?playerid=2943&page=4|url-status=live}}

He then produced a match-winning performance against Rangers at Ibrox on 2 January 2011.{{cite news |url=http://www.skysports.com/football/match_report/0,19764,11065_3327933,00.html |title=Samaras brace seals Ibrox win |publisher=Sky Sports |date=2 January 2011 |access-date=19 June 2012 |archive-date=5 January 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110105061613/http://www.skysports.com/football/match_report/0,19764,11065_3327933,00.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://sport.stv.tv/football/scottish-premier/rangers/218999-ibrox-bean-counters-are-smiths-biggest-foe/ |title=Ibrox bean counters are Smith's biggest foe |publisher=STV Sport |date=8 January 2011 |access-date=19 June 2012 |archive-date=24 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120324061117/http://sport.stv.tv/football/scottish-premier/rangers/218999-ibrox-bean-counters-are-smiths-biggest-foe/ |url-status=dead }} He was selected as a lone striker{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/9334174.stm |title=Georgios Samaras to star – Neil Lennon |publisher=BBC Sport |date=2 January 2011 |access-date =19 June 2012}} and scored both Celtic goals in a 2–0 victory.{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/9330644.stm |publisher=BBC Sport |date=2 January 2011 |title=Rangers 0 – 2 Celtic |access-date=19 June 2012}} His first goal came from latching onto a Joe Ledley pass before rounding Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor and slotting home from a wide angle.{{cite news |url=http://sport.scotsman.com/celticfc/Rangers-0--2-Celtic.6677409.jp |title=Rangers 0–2 Celtic: Samaras brace sinks Gers |work=The Scotsman |date=2 January 2011 |access-date=19 June 2012 |archive-date=17 June 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617071847/http://sport.scotsman.com/celticfc/Rangers-0--2-Celtic.6677409.jp |url-status=live }} His second came after he won a penalty which he converted to secure the victory. His efforts in this game won him Goal.com's World Player of the Week Award.{{cite news |url=http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2876/world-player-of-the-week/2011/01/03/2287858/goalcom-world-player-of-the-week-georgios-samaras-celtic |title=Goal.com World Player of the Week: Georgios Samaras – Celtic |work=Goal |date=3 January 2011 |access-date=19 June 2012 |archive-date=11 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011054128/http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2876/world-player-of-the-week/2011/01/03/2287858/goalcom-world-player-of-the-week-georgios-samaras-celtic |url-status=live }} In the following game, a Scottish Cup tie against Berwick Rangers, Samaras again started but failed to last the 90 minutes after sustaining a hamstring injury.{{cite news |url=http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/celticfc/Neil-Lennon-proud-of-team39s.6684922.jp |title=Neil Lennon proud of team's character |work=The Scotsman |date=10 January 2011 |access-date=19 June 2012 |archive-date=13 January 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110113121704/http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/celticfc/Neil-Lennon-proud-of-team39s.6684922.jp |url-status=live }} Samaras had an influential performance in a 3–0 home victory against Rangers in the SPL on 20 February, helping to set up the second goal for Gary Hooper{{cite news |url=http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/northern-ireland/hooper-doubles-up-in-celtic-old-firm-win-15090632.html |title=Hooper doubles up in Celtic Old Firm win |work=Belfast Telegraph |date=20 February 2011 |access-date=19 June 2012 |archive-date=19 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121019173836/http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/northern-ireland/hooper-doubles-up-in-celtic-old-firm-win-15090632.html |url-status=live }} and causing problems for the opposition throughout the game.{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/9403033.stm |title=Neil Lennon pleased with Celtic 'product' on the pitch |publisher=BBC Sport |date=20 February 2011 |access-date=19 June 2012}}

On 16 March, Samaras captained Celtic for the first time in a 2–1 Scottish Cup win over Inverness Caledonian Thistle at the Caledonian Stadium.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/scotland/9427295.stm

| title = Alan Thompson praise for captain Georgios Samaras

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 16 March 2011

| access-date = 19 June 2012

| archive-date = 10 December 2019

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191210231824/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/scotland/9427295.stm

| url-status = live

}}{{cite news

| url = http://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/ledley-double-ensures-celtic-victory-497565.html

| title = Ledley double ensures Celtic victory

| work = Irish Examiner

| date = 16 March 2011

| access-date = 19 June 2012

| archive-date = 20 September 2012

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120920194104/http://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/ledley-double-ensures-celtic-victory-497565.html

| url-status = live

}} Two days later, he signed a new deal to keep him at Parkhead until the summer of 2014.{{cite news|title=Celtic's Georgios Samaras agrees new three-year deal|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/9428818.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=18 March 2011}} Celtic drew 0–0 with Rangers on 24 April 2011 in the final Old Firm league fixture of the season, with Samaras missing a penalty kick late in the second half.{{cite web|title=Rangers 0–0 Celtic|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/9464454.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=25 February 2015|date=24 April 2011}} The draw kept Rangers one point ahead of Celtic in the league, and the Ibrox club went on to win the league by one point despite Celtic's emphatic 4–0 win over Motherwell in the final league game of the season (Samaras scoring Celtic's second goal in that game).{{cite web|title=Celtic 4–0 Motherwell|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/9484608.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=25 February 2015|date=15 May 2011|archive-date=6 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201206210843/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/9484608.stm|url-status=live}} Samaras did end the season with silverware though, playing a week later in Celtic's 3–0 win over Motherwell in the Scottish Cup Final.{{cite web|title=Motherwell 0–3 Celtic|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/9491542.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=25 February 2015|date=21 May 2011|archive-date=22 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110522112815/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/9491542.stm|url-status=live}}

On 3 November 2011, Samaras started against Rennes in a Europa League match at Celtic Park. Celtic won the match 3–1 with Samaras getting two assists. He drew plaudits for his much noticed work-rate and determination during the match.{{cite news

| url = https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/2011/11/04/celtic-goal-hero-anthony-stokes-hails-outstanding-georgios-samaras-after-euro-win-86908-23536752/

| title = Celtic goal hero Anthony Stokes hails outstanding Georgios Samaras

| work= Daily Record

| date = 3 November 2011

| access-date =26 November 2011}} Samaras then started the next match against Motherwell in the SPL and set up another goal for Anthony Stokes, Celtic went on to win the match 2–1 after being 1–0 down.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/15510763.stm

| title = Motherwell 1–2 Celtic

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 6 November 2011

| access-date =6 November 2011}} Samaras went on to score his first goal of the 2011–12 season in a 5–0 win over St Mirren. Manager Neil Lennon said that; "He got his goal, which we've been waiting on a long time. His play was fantastic. He is a talent and all we are asking for is consistency. He has shown everyone today what he is capable of when he is in full flow. The rest took a leaf from his book."{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/15904825.stm

| title = Georgios Samaras set tone for great win – Neil Lennon

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 26 November 2011

| access-date =26 November 2011}} After an impressive performance in Celtic's 1–1 draw against Italian league leaders Udinese,{{cite news

|url = http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/celtic/2011/12/15/europa-league-udinese-1-celtic-1-86908-23638499/

|title = Europa League: Udinese 1 Celtic 1

|work = Daily Record

|date = 15 December 2011

|access-date = 16 December 2011

|archive-date = 12 January 2012

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120112022004/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/celtic/2011/12/15/europa-league-udinese-1-celtic-1-86908-23638499/

|url-status = live

}} fellow Serie A side Palermo expressed an interest in Samaras. He had been playing as a left midfielder in the previous few weeks, and the Daily Record said that his good form since returning to the team had helped re-ignite Celtic's season.{{cite news

|url = http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/2011/12/12/serie-a-side-palermo-weigh-up-2million-bid-for-celtic-star-georgios-samaras-86908-23628749/

|archive-url = https://archive.today/20130420044516/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/2011/12/12/serie-a-side-palermo-weigh-up-2million-bid-for-celtic-star-georgios-samaras-86908-23628749/

|url-status = dead

|archive-date = 20 April 2013

|title = Serie A side Palermo weigh up £2million bid for Celtic star Georgios Samaras

|work = Daily Record

|date = 12 December 2011

|access-date = 16 December 2011

}} On 24 December, Samaras started as a striker and scored twice as Celtic beat Kilmarnock 2–1.{{cite news

| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/16229733.stm

| title = Celtic 2–1 Kilmarnock

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 24 December 2011

| access-date =24 December 2011}}

On 8 August, Samaras scored his 50th Celtic goal in the 2–0 away victory over HJK Helsinki in the second leg of the Champions League third qualifying round.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19074394 |title=HJK 0–2 Celtic |publisher=BBC Sport |date=8 August 2012 |access-date=9 August 2012 |archive-date=9 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120809131939/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19074394 |url-status=live }} On 21 August, Samaras assisted Kris Commons' opening goal in the Champions League play-off round first leg away at Helsingborg and then scored himself later in the match.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19252342 |title=Helsingborgs 0–2 Celtic |publisher=BBC Sport |date=21 August 2012 |access-date=21 August 2012 |archive-date=21 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120821212613/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19252342 |url-status=live }} He scored a dramatic late winner in a 2–3 win against Spartak Moscow in the Champions League group stage.{{cite news |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0202-0e80514bfb00-bf415177e1e3-1000--samaras-ends-celtic-s-away-misery-at-spartak/ |title=Samaras ends Celtic's away misery at Spartak |publisher=UEFA |date=2 October 2012 |access-date=3 October 2012 |archive-date=4 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121004004633/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2013/matches/round=2000347/match=2009517/postmatch/report/index.html#celtic+break+away+duck |url-status=live }}

Samaras became the first player in Celtic history to score in five consecutive away matches in Europe,{{cite web|last=Purden|first=Richard|title=Selling Samaras over Lennon's head would be a grave error|url=http://www.irishpost.co.uk/sport/selling-samaras-over-lennons-head-would-be-a-grave-error|work=The Irish Post|access-date=2 June 2015|date=15 May 2014|archive-date=22 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150522044528/http://www.irishpost.co.uk/sport/selling-samaras-over-lennons-head-would-be-a-grave-error|url-status=live}} with headed goals in 2–1 defeats to Barcelona and Benfica adding to his goals against Spartak Moscow, Helsingborg and HJK Helsinki.{{cite web|title=Games Involving Samaras, Georgios in season 2012/2013|url=http://www.fitbastats.com/celtic/player_games.php?playerid=2943&page=2|publisher=FitbaStats|access-date=2 June 2015|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304001713/http://www.fitbastats.com/celtic/player_games.php?playerid=2943&page=2|url-status=live}} Samaras was also credited for helping Celtic qualify from the group stage, providing the assist for Hooper's opening goal in the final game against Spartak at Parkhead and then winning the foul for the penalty that Commons converted to clinch the win required that night.{{cite web|last=Lamont|first=Alasdair|title=Celtic 2 – 1 Spartak Moscow|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20522174|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=2 June 2015|date=5 December 2012|archive-date=17 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017064715/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20522174|url-status=live}}

Samaras scored an overhead kick in a 2–0 win at Dundee on Boxing Day 2012.{{cite web|last=Crawford|first=Kenny|title=Dundee 0 – 2 Celtic|url=http://www.fitbastats.com/celtic/player_games.php?playerid=2943&page=2|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=2 June 2015|date=26 December 2012|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304001713/http://www.fitbastats.com/celtic/player_games.php?playerid=2943&page=2|url-status=live}} In March 2013, Samaras was substituted on as Aberdeen led Celtic 3–1 at Celtic Park, and his overhead kick completed the comeback as he made it 4–3 in the 94th minute of the match.{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/spfl/celtic-4-3-aberdeen-samaras-comes-to-four-1-2841377 |title=Celtic 4–3 Aberdeen: Samaras comes to four |first=Moira |last=Gordon |newspaper=The Scotsman |date=17 March 2013 |access-date=30 August 2014}}

Over the course of the season, Samaras captained Celtic on several occasions, including the opening league match against Aberdeen and also in the away leg of Celtic's last-16 Champions League tie against Juventus. Samaras finished the season with more silverware as Celtic clinched their second successive league title and then defeated Hibs 3–0 in the Scottish Cup Final. Samaras did not start, however was subbed on later in the match, replacing Kris Commons in the 76th minute.{{cite web|last=Lamont|first=Alasdair|title=Hibernian 0–3 Celtic|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22585339|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 May 2013|access-date=11 February 2018|archive-date=14 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114202645/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22585339|url-status=live}}

Samaras started the 2013–14 season with a goal against NIFL Premiership club Cliftonville in the Champions League second qualifying round,{{cite web|last=Petrie|first=Richard|title=Cliftonville 0–3 Celtic|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23251252|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=12 May 2014|date=17 July 2013|archive-date=28 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140328232452/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23251252|url-status=live}} and made it two goals in two matches as he scored in the return leg with a header in a 2–0 victory. Celtic won the tie 5–0 on aggregate.{{cite web|title=Celtic 2–0 Cliftonville|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23324257|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=12 May 2014|date=23 July 2013|archive-date=20 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020234845/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23324257|url-status=live}} Celtic knocked out Elfsborg in the next round,{{cite web|last=Campbell|first=Andy|title=Elfsborg 0 Celtic 0|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23513157|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=17 February 2014|date=7 August 2013|archive-date=17 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017005753/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23513157|url-status=live}} before playing Shakhter Karagandy in the final qualifying round. Trailing 2–0 from the first leg away in Kazakhstan,{{cite web|last=Grant|first=Michael|title=Shakhter Karagandy 2 Celtic 0: stirring cocktail leaves Lennon's side groggy|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/football/shakhter-karagandy-2-celtic-0-stirring-cocktail-leaves-lennon-s-side-groggy.1377061269|work=The Herald|location=Glasgow|access-date=17 February 2014|date=21 August 2013}} they rallied in the return match at Parkhead. Samaras scored early in the second half, adding to Commons' goal just before half time, to level the tie on aggregate. A last minute goal from James Forrest clinched the aggregate win and saw the club once again progress to the group stages.{{cite web|last=Lindsay|first=Clive|title=Celtic 3 Shakhter Karagandy 0|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23776602|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=17 February 2014|date=28 August 2013|archive-date=15 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140615072124/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23776602|url-status=live}} Samaras played in all six group games, but only scored once, away against Barcelona in a 6–1 defeat.{{cite web|last=Lamont|first=Alasdair|title=Barcelona 6 Celtic 1|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25303700|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=17 February 2014|date=11 December 2013|archive-date=19 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140219103855/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25303700|url-status=live}} He continued to feature regularly in domestic games for Celtic, but was often used as a substitute.{{cite web|title=Georgios Samaras 2013–14|url=http://www.fitbastats.com/celtic/player.php?playerid=2943|publisher=FitbaStats|access-date=12 May 2014|archive-date=26 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150226052153/http://www.fitbastats.com/celtic/player.php?playerid=2943|url-status=live}} He scored a hat-trick on 28 September away against Kilmarnock in a 5–2 win.{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24185260 |title=Kilmarnock 2–5 Celtic |publisher=BBC Sport |date=28 September 2013 |access-date=24 October 2013 |archive-date=16 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016182514/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24185260 |url-status=live }} Samaras only scored another three league goals after that,{{cite web|title=Georgios Samaras 2013–14|url=http://www.fitbastats.com/celtic/player_games.php?playerid=2943&page=1|publisher=FitbaStats|access-date=12 May 2014|archive-date=12 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140512231015/http://www.fitbastats.com/celtic/player_games.php?playerid=2943&page=1|url-status=live}} including a goal from a penalty kick in his final appearance for the club on 11 May 2014, a 3–1 win at home against Dundee United.{{cite web|title=Celtic 3 Dundee Utd 1: champion Hoops take home the trophy|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/football/celtic-3-dundee-utd-1-celtic-confirm-champion-status-with-united-win-and-take-home-th.1399815846|work=Herald|access-date=12 May 2014|date=11 May 2014|archive-date=9 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141109182230/http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/football/celtic-3-dundee-utd-1-celtic-confirm-champion-status-with-united-win-and-take-home-th.1399815846|url-status=live}}

The same day, Samaras confirmed that Celtic would not offer him a new deal when his current contract expired at the end of the season, leaving him as a free agent.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27364718|title=Georgios Samaras: Celtic did not make me an offer|date=11 May 2014|access-date=24 June 2014|publisher=BBC Sport Football|archive-date=25 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140725003547/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27364718|url-status=live}}

On 22 August 2014, Samaras completed a free transfer move to English Premier League side West Bromwich Albion on a two-year contract.{{cite news|title=Georgios Samaras: West Brom sign striker on a free transfer|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28886833|access-date=22 August 2014|publisher=BBC Sport|date=22 August 2014|archive-date=22 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140822053723/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28886833|url-status=live}} He failed to secure a regular place in the team and by January 2015 had made only eight substitute appearances, all without scoring.{{cite web|title=Georgios Samaras set for West Brom exit|url=https://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/celtic/georgios-samaras-set-for-west-brom-exit-195188n.116744158|work=Evening Times|access-date=25 January 2015|date=23 January 2015}}

On 5 February 2015, Samaras joined Saudi side Al-Hilal on loan for the rest of the season, with an option to sign him permanently at the end of his loan spell.{{cite web|title=Samaras loan exit confirmed|url=http://www.wba.co.uk/news/article/georgios-samaras-west-bromwich-albion-al-hilal-2249808.aspx|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150205203810/http://www.wba.co.uk/news/article/georgios-samaras-west-bromwich-albion-al-hilal-2249808.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 February 2015|publisher=West Bromwich Albion F.C.|access-date=8 February 2015|date=5 February 2015}} He played against Al-Ahli in the Saudi Crown Prince Cup Final eight days later, but despite scoring his first goal for his new team, they lost 2–1.{{cite news|title=2014–15 Saudi Crown Prince Cup: Al Hilal vs. Al Ahli 1 – 2|publisher=Soccerway}} His next goal came in the first round of the Kings Cup on 10 March 2015, netting his side's fourth goal in a 4–1 win over Al-Jeel.{{cite web|title=Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup 2015 – 10 March 2015 – Al Hilal 4–1 Al-Jeel|url=http://www.goalzz.com/main.aspx?m=972887&stats=true|publisher=Goalzz|access-date=2 June 2015|archive-date=6 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706113957/http://www.goalzz.com/main.aspx?m=972887&stats=true|url-status=live}}

On 20 March 2015, Samaras faced a hip injury, the most serious injury in his career that forced him to be out of action for almost three months. In April 2015, Greek newspaper SportDay reported that Samaras was unhappy with life in the Middle East and did not wish to continue his career at the Saudi club when his contract expired at the end of the season. It was also reported that Portuguese club Sporting CP were keen to sign him.{{cite news|title=Samaras linked with Sporting|publisher=sdna.gr|url=http://www.sdna.gr/gr/news-in-english/arthro-news-in-english/30690/samaras-linked-with-sporting/|date=18 April 2015|access-date=18 April 2015|archive-date=19 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150419011632/http://www.sdna.gr/gr/news-in-english/arthro-news-in-english/30690/samaras-linked-with-sporting/|url-status=live}}

Samaras had his contract with West Brom terminated by mutual consent on 17 July 2015.{{cite web|title=ALBION today announce the departure of Georgios Samaras.|url=http://www.wba.co.uk/news/article/wba-albion-baggies-samaras-2553638.aspx|publisher=West Bromwich Albion Football Club|access-date=17 July 2015|date=17 July 2015|archive-date=26 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150726013425/http://www.wba.co.uk//news/article/wba-albion-baggies-samaras-2553638.aspx|url-status=dead}}

In August 2015, Samaras was reported to have agreed terms with Serie A club Sampdoria, but the move fell through as the club were unhappy with the results of his medical.{{cite news|title=Samaras fails Samp medical?|url=http://www.football-italia.net/70567/samaras-fails-samp-medical|access-date=1 January 2016|work=Football Italia|date=4 August 2015|archive-date=14 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114202646/http://www.football-italia.net/70567/samaras-fails-samp-medical|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Sampdoria, sfuma Samaras. Il greco non convince a livello fisico|url=http://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/serie-a/sampdoria-sfuma-samaras-il-greco-non-convince-a-livello-fisico-712826|access-date=1 January 2016|work=Tutto Mercato|date=5 August 2015|archive-date=14 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114202647/http://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/serie-a/sampdoria-sfuma-samaras-il-greco-non-convince-a-livello-fisico-712826|url-status=live}} Afterwards, he spent time in New York to rehabilitate from a back injury, and in November 2015 was linked with a move to the New York Cosmos,{{cite news|last=Shires|first=Freddie|title=New York Cosmos chief hopeful over Georgios Samaras deal|url=http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2015/11/14/new-york-cosmos-chief-hopeful-over-georgios-samaras-deal/|access-date=1 January 2016|work=HITC Sport|date=14 November 2015|archive-date=14 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114202646/http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2015/11/14/new-york-cosmos-chief-hopeful-over-georgios-samaras-deal/|url-status=live}} although once again no move actually materialised.{{cite news|last1=Keefer|first1=Ryan|title=D.C. United interested in Georgios Samaras|url=http://www.blackandredunited.com/dc-united-transfers/2016/1/30/10875660/georgios-samaras-celtic-west-ham-greece|access-date=29 February 2016|work=Black and Red United|date=30 January 2016|archive-date=14 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160214154134/http://www.blackandredunited.com/dc-united-transfers/2016/1/30/10875660/georgios-samaras-celtic-west-ham-greece|url-status=live}}

Samaras did eventually sign for a North American Soccer League team, joining expansion side Rayo OKC on 10 March 2016.{{cite web|title=RAYO OKC SIGNS GREEK NATIONAL TEAM MEMBER GEORGIOS SAMARAS|url=http://www.rayookc.com/news/2016/03/10/rayo-okc-signs-greek-national-team-member-georgios-samaras|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160311071520/http://www.rayookc.com/news/2016/03/10/rayo-okc-signs-greek-national-team-member-georgios-samaras|url-status=usurped|archive-date=11 March 2016|access-date=10 March 2016|publisher=RayoOKC.com|date=10 March 2016}} On 2 April, he made his debut in their first match, replacing Robbie Findley for the final 12 minutes of a goalless home draw against FC Edmonton.{{cite news|last1=Brannick|first1=Chris|title=Rayo OKC opens season with draw in front of sellout|url=http://newsok.com/article/5489341|access-date=3 April 2016|publisher=News OK|date=2 April 2016|archive-date=8 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160408063651/http://newsok.com/article/5489341|url-status=live}} He was the last of three of the team's players sent off on 28 May in a 1–0 loss at Soccer Bowl holders the Cosmos.{{cite news|last1=Brannick|first1=Chris|title=Rayo OKC sees three red cards in road loss to New York Cosmos|url=http://newsok.com/article/5501059|access-date=18 July 2016|publisher=News OK|date=28 May 2016|archive-date=30 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160530131646/http://newsok.com/article/5501059|url-status=live}} Samaras' first goal for the franchise came on 16 July in his 9th match, coming on as a late substitute to wrap up a 3–0 win over the same opponent at the Miller Stadium.{{cite news|title=New York Cosmos take first loss of NASL Fall Season vs. Rayo OKC|url=http://www.soccerwire.com/news/pro/nasl/new-york-cosmos-take-first-loss-of-nasl-fall-season-vs-rayo-okc/|access-date=18 July 2016|publisher=Soccerwire|date=17 July 2016|archive-date=24 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161224194914/http://www.soccerwire.com/news/pro/nasl/new-york-cosmos-take-first-loss-of-nasl-fall-season-vs-rayo-okc/|url-status=dead}}

Samaras became a free agent in early 2017 when Rayo OKC shut down after only one season, and his next move was suggested to be to Spain to sign for Real Zaragoza.{{cite news|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/celtic-hero-georgios-samaras-set-9749870|title=Celtic hero Georgios Samaras set for move to Spanish Segunda division side Real Zaragoza|work=Daily Record|date=3 February 2017|access-date=3 February 2017|first=Mark|last=Walker|archive-date=4 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170204004135/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/celtic-hero-georgios-samaras-set-9749870|url-status=live}} On 8 February, he was unveiled at a press conference and assigned the number 5 shirt.{{cite news|title=Georgios Samaras unveiled as new Real Zaragoza No. 5|url=http://en.as.com/en/2017/02/08/football/1486558681_090524.html|access-date=4 March 2017|work=Diario AS|date=8 February 2017|archive-date=4 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170304194142/http://en.as.com/en/2017/02/08/football/1486558681_090524.html|url-status=live}}

On 6 August 2017, Samaras agreed terms with TFF First League club Samsunspor.[http://spor.mynet.com/Eplayer/futbol/1-lig/113484-samaras-ve-sifakis-samsunsporda.html Samaras ve Sifakis Samsunspor'da] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170806154236/http://spor.mynet.com/Eplayer/futbol/1-lig/113484-samaras-ve-sifakis-samsunsporda.html |date=6 August 2017 }}. spor.mynet.com. 6 August 2017.{{cite news |url=https://www.fanatik.com.tr/2017/08/06/samaras-ve-sifakis-samsunspor-da-1311498l |title=Samaras ve Sifakis Samsunspor'da |date=6 August 2017 |publisher=fanatik.com.tr }}{{dead link|date=December 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} On 24 December he scored his first goal with the club, equalising at the end of the first half, in a 4–2 away loss against Ümraniyespor. It was his first goal since 7 August 2016 when he scored in a 1–1 draw against the New York Cosmos.{{cite news |url=http://www.fanatik.com.tr/2017/12/24/umraniyespor-samsunspor-mac-sonucu-4-2-1338998 |title=Ümraniyespor – Samsunspor maç sonucu: 4-2 |date=24 December 2017 |publisher=fanatik.com.tr |access-date=24 December 2017 |archive-date=25 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171225091909/http://www.fanatik.com.tr/2017/12/24/umraniyespor-samsunspor-mac-sonucu-4-2-1338998 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://www.sport24.gr/football/EllinesExoterikou/skorare-ustera-apo-1-5-xrono-o-samaras.5002080.html |title=Σκόραρε ύστερα από 1,5 χρόνο ο Σαμαράς |date=24 December 2017 |publisher=sport24.gr |access-date=26 December 2017 |archive-date=26 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226182124/http://www.sport24.gr/football/EllinesExoterikou/skorare-ustera-apo-1-5-xrono-o-samaras.5002080.html |url-status=live }} On 12 October 2018, Samaras announced his retirement from football, aged 33.{{Cite news |date=12 October 2018 |title=Georgios Samaras: Former Celtic striker retires after 16-year career |publisher=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/45835738 |access-date=5 September 2023}}

File:Georgios Samaras Greece 2010.jpg

Samaras was eligible to play for the Australian national team. His father, Ioannis, was born in Melbourne, but moved to Greece at the age of 13, and had a successful football career, playing for OFI, Panathinaikos, and Greece.{{cite news

|url = https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/southafrica2010/players/player=297112/profile.html

|title = 7 Georgios Samaras

|publisher=FIFA

|access-date = 16 June 2012

|url-status = dead

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121111023915/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/southafrica2010/players/player%3D297112/profile.html

|archive-date = 11 November 2012

}} Additionally, his grandfather (also Georgios) was one of the founding members of South Melbourne FC. Although Samaras considered playing for Australia, he was never approached by Football Federation Australia and chose to play for the country of his birth.{{cite news

| url = http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2006/05/23/1148150255018.html?page=fullpage

| title = Star who slipped the net

| publisher = The Age

| date = 24 May 2006

| access-date = 16 June 2012

| archive-date = 3 November 2012

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121103021906/http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2006/05/23/1148150255018.html?page=fullpage

| url-status = live

}}

He made his debut for Greece just a week after his 21st birthday, on 28 February 2006, in a friendly game against Belarus, in which he scored the sole goal of the game.{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2006/SPORT/football/02/28/cyprus.tournament/index.html |title=Greece owe it to Samaras on debut |publisher=CNN|date=28 February 2006 |access-date=19 June 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081014144108/http://edition.cnn.com/2006/SPORT/football/02/28/cyprus.tournament/index.html |archive-date=14 October 2008 }} He featured in Greece's Euro 2008 qualifiers and was a member of the unsuccessful Greek squad at the finals, making just one appearance as a second-half substitute in their first UEFA Euro 2008 Group D game against Sweden.{{cite web |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/match/300688--greece-vs-sweden/ |publisher=UEFA |access-date=8 February 2015 |title=Greece 0 – 2 Sweden |archive-date=20 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141220192541/http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2008/matches/round=15093/match=300688/index.html |url-status=live }}

Samaras' fourth international goal was a crucial one, when he scored the winning goal in a 2010 World Cup qualifier against Israel in front of his hometown crowd in Heraklion.{{cite news |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/soccer/2009-04-01-3376461325_x.htm |title=Greece beats Israel 2–1 in WCup qualifier |work=USA Today |date=1 April 2009 |access-date=19 June 2012}} He scored his fifth international goal with an overhead kick in a World Cup qualifier on 10 October 2009, against Latvia in a 5–2 victory.{{cite news |url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=236543&cc=5739 |title=Four-goal haul for Gekas sends Greece second |work=Soccernet |publisher=ESPN |date=10 October 2009 |access-date=19 June 2012 |archive-date=24 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024035452/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=236543&cc=5739 |url-status=dead }} Samaras also played against Ukraine in a World Cup Qualifying play-off, setting up the sole goal of the tie, passing to Dimitris Salpingidis who slotted home to give Greece a 1–0 win and a place in the 2010 World Cup Finals.{{cite news |url=http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2009/1118/ukraine_greece.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120914000200/http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2009/1118/ukraine_greece.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=14 September 2012 |title=Ukraine 0–1 Greece (0–1 Agg) |publisher=RTÉ Sport |date=18 November 2009 |access-date=19 June 2012 }}

On 1 June 2010, Georgios Samaras was selected in the 23-man Greece squad for the World Cup.{{cite news|url =http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2010/8715822.stm

| title = World Cup 2010: Greece boss Otto Rehhagel names squad

| publisher = BBC Sport

| date = 1 June 2010

| access-date =19 June 2012}} ESPN.com rated him as Greece's second best player, only behind talisman Giorgos Karagounis.{{cite news

| url = http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5239604/ce/us/greece-team-preview&cc=5901?ver=us

| title = Team preview: Greece

| publisher = ESPN

| work = Soccernet

| date = 1 June 2010

| access-date = 16 December 2011

}}{{dead link|date=July 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} He played in all three group matches. Despite Greece's 2–1 win over Nigeria, they failed to proceed to the knockout stage, due to 2–0 losses to both South Korea and Argentina.{{cite news

| url = http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/800827/ce/uk/?cc=5739&ver=global

| title = Samaras laments exit, backs Argentina

| publisher = ESPN

| work = Soccernet

| date = 23 June 2010

| access-date = 19 June 2012

| archive-date = 24 October 2012

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121024035511/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/800827/ce/uk/?cc=5739&ver=global

| url-status = dead

}}

On 17 November 2010, Samaras scored his sixth international goal in a friendly against Austria in Vienna with Greece winning the match 2–1.{{cite news

|url = http://football.uk.reuters.com/leagues/european/news/2010/11/17/LDE6AG2BT.php

|title = Samaras inspires Greece to fortuitous win in Austria

|agency = Reuters

|date = 17 November 2010

|access-date = 19 June 2012

|url-status = dead

|archive-url = https://archive.today/20130104141533/http://football.uk.reuters.com/leagues/european/news/2010/11/17/LDE6AG2BT.php

|archive-date = 4 January 2013

}} Samaras also set up Greece's second goal.

Samaras then went on to score a vital goal for Greece against Croatia on 7 October 2011, a volley from the edge of the box with his left foot. The match finished 2–0 and the result meant that Greece qualified for the Euro 2012.{{cite news |url=http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/euro/2012/qualifying/greece-croatia-368950.html |title=Greece 2–0 Croatia |publisher=Yahoo/Eurosport.com |date=7 October 2011 |access-date=27 November 2011 |archive-date=21 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111121095559/http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/euro/2012/qualifying/greece-croatia-368950.html |url-status=live }} Samaras played in all three of Greece's group games at Euro 2012, helping them to finish second in Group A and progress to the quarter-finals.{{cite web |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/history/teams/49--greece/ |title=UEFA EURO 2012 – History – Greece |publisher=UEFA |access-date=8 February 2015 |archive-date=16 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141016054236/http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2012/teams/team=49/matches/index.html |url-status=live }} He then played in the quarter-final tie against Germany, scoring early in the second half to level the match at 1–1, although Germany went on to win 4–2 and knock Greece out.{{cite web |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/match/2003344--germany-vs-greece/ |title=Germany 4 – 2 Greece |publisher=UEFA |access-date=8 February 2015 |archive-date=31 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140731081044/http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2012/matches/round=15173/match=2003344/index.html |url-status=live }}

Samaras was selected in Greece's squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. In the team's final group stage fixture, Samaras assisted Greece's opening goal and scored the winner from a penalty kick in the 90th minute to give the team a 2–1 win over the Ivory Coast and qualify Greece for the last 16 of the World Cup for the first time in the nation's history.{{cite news | url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25285284 | title = Greece 2–1 Ivory Coast | publisher = BBC Sport | date = 24 June 2014 | access-date = 24 June 2014 | archive-date = 23 June 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140623210416/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25285284 | url-status = live }}

Samaras has been described as having all the skills necessary for forward play.{{cite web |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/spl/celtic/georgios-samaras-has-all-the-attributes-to-be-a-lethal-weapon-for-celtic-but-his-inconsistency-still-frustrates-1.991402 |title=Georgios Samaras has all the attributes to be a lethal weapon for Celtic but his inconsistency still frustrates |work=Herald |date=1 December 2009 |access-date=19 June 2012 |archive-date=11 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011155357/http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/spl/celtic/georgios-samaras-has-all-the-attributes-to-be-a-lethal-weapon-for-celtic-but-his-inconsistency-still-frustrates-1.991402 |url-status=live }} His height, {{convert|6|ft|4|in|m|abbr=on}}, made him difficult to handle in the air – and he was also a good header of the ball. This meant he could be used as an effective target man and his team could hit long balls up to him. He could also score from corners and crosses. Samaras was also strong which further added to his physical presence and made him harder for defenders to play against.

File:Innes and Samaras.jpg

Samaras was also a good dribbler.{{cite news|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/2008/06/08/steven-pressley-celtic-stars-can-be-hits-at-euro-2008-78057-20599424/ |title=Steven Pressley: Celtic stars can be hits at Euro 2008 |work=Daily Record |date=8 June 2008 |access-date=17 December 2011 }}{{dead link|date=June 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} This was due to his skill, quick feet and agility. He used this to his advantage and often went on runs where he beat several opposition players. However, he sometimes held onto the ball for too long and got tackled.{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/9654769.stm |title=Sunday's SPL as it happened – 13:00 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=4 December 2011 |access-date=17 December 2011}} As well as his dribbling ability, he was quick which meant he could beat players with his pace. He could also use his strength to beat players as well and was also able to use his creativity to set up goals for other players. While he was at Manchester City, Eriksson said that he would only retain him in the side if he stopped dribbling and running out wide. Eriksson said that he believed Samaras to be a good header of the ball and he had to stop believing he was like Ronaldinho if he was to become a good player.

Although predominantly a striker, Samaras could also play as a left midfielder. In addition to being able to play as a target man, Samaras was also able to be utilised in several different roles when playing up front. His natural style of play was to drift off the front line and provide a link between the attack and midfield. In doing this he was able to use his pace and skill to run at the defence, while also creating chances or opening up space for his teammates. He was also able to run beyond the centre-backs and his pace meant he could run on to through balls hit over the defence.

Despite his ability, Samaras performed inconsistently throughout his career. His mazy runs often went nowhere and he frequently got caught in possession when a pass to a team-mate was available. His languid manner exacerbated supporters' frustrations and often led to accusations of him being "lazy".{{cite web|last=Cully|first=Ronnie|title=Lennon hails Celtic legacy of Samaras|url=http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/celtic/lennon-hails-celtic-legacy-of-samaras-158039n.23853547|work=Evening Times|access-date=15 May 2014|date=2 April 2014|archive-date=5 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140405182856/http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/celtic/lennon-hails-celtic-legacy-of-samaras-158039n.23853547|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Cully|first=Ronnie|title=Hair today and gone tomorrow as Samaras signs off at Celtic|url=http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/celtic/hair-today-and-gone-tomorrow-as-samaras-signs-off-at-celtic-163293n.24207392|access-date=15 May 2014|date=13 May 2014|archive-date=24 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150224140014/http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/celtic/hair-today-and-gone-tomorrow-as-samaras-signs-off-at-celtic-163293n.24207392|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Hannan|first=Martin|title=New Georgios Samaras deal next on Celtic wish list|url=http://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/latest/new-georgios-samaras-deal-next-on-celtic-wish-list-1-3127353|work=The Scotsman|access-date=15 May 2014|date=5 October 2013|archive-date=19 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819094645/http://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/latest/new-georgios-samaras-deal-next-on-celtic-wish-list-1-3127353|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last1=Berry|first1=Gavin|title=Paul Hartley: Celtic ace Georgios Samaras was always a top Bhoy|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/paul-hartley-celtic-ace-georgios-2117917|work=Daily Record|access-date=21 June 2014|date=2 August 2013|archive-date=19 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819083046/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/paul-hartley-celtic-ace-georgios-2117917|url-status=live}}

{{notelist}}

:Scores and results list Greece's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Samaras goal.

Celtic

• Scottish Premier League: 2007–08, 2011–12, 2012–13, 2013–14
• Scottish Cup: 2010–11, 2012–13
• Scottish League Cup: 2008–09

Al-Hilal

• Saudi Crown Prince Cup runner-up: 2014–15

Individual

• SPL Player of the Month: September 2008{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7649064.stm|title=Strachan and Samaras net awards|date=3 October 2008|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=3 October 2008| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081004203443/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/7649064.stm| archive-date= 4 October 2008 | url-status= live}}
• Celtic Supporters' Player of the Year: 2012–13{{cite web|last=Slevison|first=Andrew|title=Samaras takes out Celtic Supporters' award, Forster voted for by players|url=http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/samaras-takes-out-celtic-supporters-award-forster-voted-players-3954973|website=tribal football|access-date=3 June 2014|archive-date=17 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130617043650/http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/samaras-takes-out-celtic-supporters-award-forster-voted-players-3954973|url-status=live}}
• 2014 FIFA World Cup awards: Man of the match Greece vs Ivory Coast{{cite web|title=Greece 2-1 Côte d'Ivoire|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=255931/match=300186455/#matchfacts|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140702034209/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=255931/match=300186455/#matchfacts|url-status=dead|archive-date=2 July 2014|publisher=FIFA|access-date=5 January 2015}}

{{reflist}}

{{commons category}}

• {{official website|http://www.gsamaras.com}}
• {{CelticFC.net|id=player.php?id=3|title=Georgios Samaras|archive=20130917085222}}
• {{Soccerbase}}

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