Gary Mackay-Steven believes that Ronny Deila has shielded the Hoops players from the bulk of criticism that has come their way in recent weeks.

Celtic eased their way into the semi-final of the William Hill Scottish Cup following a comfortable 3-0 win over Morton yesterday afternoon and Mackay-Steven was relieved that the tie proved to be straightforward.

The winger got Celtic's second, with Leigh Griffiths and Callum McGregor also on the scoresheet.

"It has been a tough few weeks for everyone at the club," said the former Dundee United player. "Obviously being elsewhere, nothing really prepares you for the intensity of Celtic.

"But it is a great club. We have got ourselves into the semi-final of the Scottish Cup now and we are delighted to be there. Hopefully we can lift it now.

"The manager has been great with us. He is always positive, always looking to get the best out of us.

"He has had a lot on his plate over the last few weeks but he is always the same with us and on the training ground. He us upbeat and takes the pressure himself.

"The best way for us to repay him is by going out and getting good results. That is what we all want."

And the winger was delighted to get himself back on the scoresheet.

"It is always nice to score," he said. "It is a good feeling and does a lot for you in terms of confidence, which we all thrive on.

"I am just delighted that we are in the semi-final of the Scottish Cup. The aim now is to push on and win it but there are a few league games first for us to start thinking about now.

"We have games against Partick Thistle and Kilmarnock next and that is what we will look to right now."