Luke McCowan told to bring the Celtic noise as Brendan Rodgers harnesses the good stuff

Luke McCowan is determined to nail down a starting spot at Celtic – and surge in to the frame for Scotland.

The Hoops midfielder is out to make the most of his big chance at Parkhead following his dramatic deadline day move from Dundee. McCowan made his debut in last weekend’s Old Firm derby win but insisted the hard work has only just started with the champions.

The 26-year-old was tipped for a Scotland call up when starring with the Dens Park men and is hoping the call will come if he’s doing the business with Celts. McCowan said: “My focus is here first, that’s the main objective but if it happens, I’d be thrilled. The Scotland midfield is so strong, you’ve got players playing for Napoli and teams like that, so there’s an amazing group of boys there but I’d welcome it with open arms if it came along.

“It’s just about taking my time and knowing I’ve got a bit of time on my side. Even just speaking to a few of my team-mates, they’ve let me know that it takes a bit of time to get used to the football. I just need to work hard and if I get a chance to start, hopefully I can keep my place.

“The standard here is the best in the country. It’s a Champions League team. I’m not used to that, I’m used to the Premier Sports Cup at the start of the season! I know it will take a lot of hard work to push players for their places and get in the team but that’s what I want to do.”

Hoops fan McCowan admitted it’s a thrill to be following in his heroes’ footsteps – but wants to make his own name at Parkhead. He said: “I watch Larsson, Sutton, Hartson, Petrov. I still take my penalties like Alan Thompson. He was my idol.

“I’ve grown up being a Celtic fan but it’s hard work that’s got me here and like any other job, when you get a