Mika Biereth reveals close Celtic ally's transfer advice before Motherwell move as Arsenal loanee glows over Parkhead star

Mika Biereth took roughly 10 minutes to show Motherwell fans there might be life after Kevin van Veen at Fir Park.

The Danish Under-21 international made his debut off the bench against Hibs in the 56th minute on Sunday and in the 66th he bullied Lewis Stevenson out of possession to set up Conor Wilkinson for the opening goal. Then he did the same to Will Fish, bumping the centre-back before twisting and turning inside the box to open his account with the goal that proved the clincher in a 2-1 victory.

“It wasn’t bad, was it?” grinned the confident 20-year-old Arsenal loanee. “I think I got about 40 minutes; I was cramping up a little bit at the end but all good – a goal, an assist, and three points. Nothing to complain about. It was important for me to get off to a good start. It’s always important for a striker to get off the mark as quickly as you can. So to do it in the first game is all good.

“That’s my first 40 minutes of the season. That includes pre-season as well. I was out for a little bit with a quad strain. That’s the first real game time I’ve had. I’m not feeling as sharp as I can do but I don’t feel too bad.

“There’s definitely a lot more to come from me. I’m not sure I had more than 45 in the tank so I’m just having to build up.”

The London-born Dane was delighted with his goal after appearing to be second best in a race with Fish to get onto a long ball. He added: “I was surprised he beat me for pace! But I just had to work a little bit harder and win the ball back.

“I thought I did one chop too many so I think I got a bit lucky with the finish. I’ve not seen it back but I hope it looks nice.”

Having experienced top-team football with RKC Waalwijk last season, Biereth believes he is tough enough to