Celtic player shines in star-studded American tournament as talent impresses former MLS ace after English transfer interest

East Kilbride's Daniel Kelly has helped Celtic u17s move to the next stage of the Generation adidas Cup with a goal in their 2-1 win over MLS side Cincinnati.

Hoops teammate Eseosa Sule's cross was palmed into the direction of the 16-year-old, finishing with ease early in the first half.

Kelly turned in an energetic midfielder performance and set the tone for his side's tenacious play, and they got further ahead before half-time through Kyle Ure.

Cincinnati's youngsters pulled one back eight minutes from time but it wasn't enough to save them from defeat.

The competition in Texas is one of youth football's most prestigious and features teams from across the world, including Flamengo, Manchester United, Roma and an array of MLS teams.

Arsenal were interested in signing the East Kilbride starlet but Kelly opted to commit himself to Celtic last month by signing his first professional contract at Parkhead.

Jude Bonnar - from Hamilton and formerly of Mill United - was also on the bench for the Hoops youth side and replaced Kelly in the second half.

Former Cincinnati and Philadelphia Union midfielder Michael Lahoud was impressed by the Lanarkshire youngster's clinical nature.

He said of Kelly on MLS commentary: "As soon as the rebound comes, he takes the gift.

"It's that man Sule. He holds up the play well and then keep an eye on Kelly. You want your box-to-box midfielder to get into the box and follow his run.

"I thought Daniel Kelly had an excellent game. Not just contributing with the goal, but he brought power and intensity out of midfield."

The win almost certainly makes Celtic a top ten seed for the last 16 phase after finishing the group stage top of Group H.

Their other matches brought about a 1-1 draw with Atlanta