PATRICK ROBERTS has set his sights on being Celtic's Lionel Messi as he prepared to make his debut in the top of the table clash at Aberdeen.

The talented teenage winger, who has signed a 18-month loan deal from Manchester City, is in the squad for Wednesday night's vital match at Pittodrie.

And Ronny Deila will surely be tempted to name his new signing on the bench.

Roberts is a confident young man and would welcome the chance to immediately show Celtic fans what he is capable of and even compared himself to the world's best player.

Scottish football could be in for a treat if he can deliver on his boasts.

Roberts said: "It’s a conscious thing from me to be like Messi. I’ve watched him for years and he’s my idol.

"You try to copy what he does and it also comes naturally to me as well.

"Because I’m left-footed I tend to move the same way as he does. In games I try to replicate what he does.

"I’ve studied him on Youtube and when La Liga is on I watch that all the time. My view is that you watch the best to learn from the best.

“I’m very determined. I started playing for Fulham at 14, which is quite late, and was in and around the first team at 16. I’ve had the determination to play at the highest level and I’m more than capable to do it.

"I’ve got the head for it, the mental side and the ability and my goals are achievable.”

Roberts is similar to the Argentine superstar in one aspect; he does love taking on players and this is a trait Celtic do lack.

And while he is small and light, the Londoner is confident he can handle the rough and tumble of the Scottish Premiership.

Roberts said: "I can’t help how I am – you’ll need to have a word with my mum about my genes! I can’t help being small.

“It’s nice to know that football has changed and little players do get more praise. It can be a tough game, but if you are good on the ball and can get away from defenders then that’s fine.”

The under-pressure Deila knows he has to beat Aberdeen and throwing in Roberts might freshen up his team.

Roberts said: "The manager came to see me and knows I should be playing regularly.

"He knows that I’m a good player and if I can do well for him it will benefit him."