Scott Robertson targets Celtic first-team spot as he follows Anthony Ralston 'never say die' example

Scott Robertson admits the power of positive thinking can help cement his place as a Celtic regular.

And it helps having Anthony Ralston as his source of inspiration

The 20-year-old Hoops midfielder believes the reversal of fortunes for one of his best mates is reason to believe he can follow his lead and enjoy a first-team breakthrough.

Robertson spent a spell on loan down in England last season.

Previously, Ralston had loan stints at Dundee United and St Johnstone to cut his teeth in the Premiership.

He’s now established with both club and country and Robertson has watched his pal’s meteoric rise with admiration.

Now after returning from a spell at Crewe which was cut short by injury, the playmaker insists it’s his time to show boss Ange Postecoglou he can hold his own with the champions.

Robertson said: “Confidence is something I have never lacked. I believe in myself and that I’m good enough to play for Celtic.

“If I didn’t then I wouldn’t be here.

“You always need to back yourself as nobody is going to make things easy. You need to prove yourself and earn your way into a club of this stature – that’s my aim.

“People on the outside don’t appreciate how much confidence plays a part in professional football. It’s massive!

“At the start of last season I managed to play 13 or 14 full games for Crewe and it’s the best I’ve felt.

“I felt I had arguably been their best player, it’s that belief which can help me kick on next season.

“Every loan spell I’ve had has always been about getting into Celtic’s first team, that’s always been my first thought.

“Going on loan has never been about a holiday away from Lennoxtown.

“You see how well Ants has done this season. I look at what he has achieved and it’s a path which I’m aiming