RONNY DEILA has made it clear he plans to scout for players who are still in their teens when the transfer window opens again.

He explained Celtic need to be looking around the world at that level because they are not in a position to compete for finished, or even nearly-finished, articles.

Developing kids was one of Ronny's strengths when he was at Stromsgodset, and it would have been one of the things that made him attractive to Celtic.

But, as we saw when Martin Odegaard chose to sign for Real Madrid, even when it comes to attracting the best young talent, it's hard to win against the bigger clubs.

I hope Ronny does not ignore the talent that is right under his nose.

Let's not forget how well Gary Mackay-Steven and Stuart Armstrong have settled and what they have added to his side since they were bought from Dundee United in the last window.

The academy which already exists at Celtic also has an important part to play in the future of the club, and it's key that this search for teenagers is not at the expense of the work that's being done there.

Liam Henderson - who scored both goals in Scotland's Under 19s 2-1 win over Austria last night - and James Forrest, are two examples of what can be produced.

A lot of investment has been made to get the structure at this level right, and I know there is a great deal of good work being done by very talented coaches.

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