FOOTBALL icon Gianfranco Zola has compared Paul McStay's legacy at Celtic to that of Italian legend Francesco Totti at Roma.

McStay's impact on the Parkhead club has never been in doubt, with the former Hoops and Scotland captain racking up more than 500 appearances over 16 years in green and white.

Idolised by everyone at the Glasgow club, the man from Larkhall played out his entire career for Celtic, even though a move to Italian side Udinese at one point seemed to turn his head.

Zola, who could have faced up to McStay for Napoli if a deal had gone through, admits he is impressed by the Scot's loyalty to staying at one club throughout his career.

And he believes the honour his record carries is mirrored in Roma captain Totti, who continues to ply his trade for the capital club 22 years after he started.

Zola said: "In those years I was in Naples Paul must have been very, very talented. I think it's something he must be very proud of.

"Not many people nowadays stay at a place where they have bigger chances with bigger money.

"Maybe I can make a parallel with a player in Italy like Francesco Totti. He always wanted to stay in Rome even though half of the best clubs in Europe looking for him.

"He always decided to stay in Rome. Maybe giving up trophies and fame, but he wanted to stay. You have to admire people like him and Paul."

Having played in McStay's MAESTRIO charity game, Zola sampled Parkhead for the very first time, and later admitted he's keen to come back again - for an Old Firm match.

The former Chelsea and Italy star added: "My first time here. I've never been at this stadium and it was very, very good atmosphere.

"I really hope to come here one day and watch a game when Celtic play Rangers. They say it's one of the most exciting experiences in terms of atmosphere, it would be nice to be part of it once."