Tommy McIntyre, Celtic’s development coach, oversaw the Parkhead side’s 3-0 win over Rangers in the FA Scottish Youth Cup final but maintained that the bigger picture is to continue to supply players for the first-team.

Celtic have not lost a goal in the competition this term and there was a clear superiority on display last night against a Rangers side.

"It wasn't a classic but it's a good showpiece for players to show themselves,” said McIntyre. “We had several really good individual performances and the big thing is progression for them into the first team. The manager and the first team coaching staff were here and I know they are pleased.

Read more: Celtic U20 3-0 Rangers U20: Hoops clinch Youth Cup glory with Old Firm win at Hampden

“It's about winning and winning in the right manner but the biggest thing for us is progression.

“The biggest thing for us is that we bridge the gap and keep supplying players for the first-team.”

Aiden Nesbitt played well and has clearly benefitted from a season at Morton. Physically more robust and full of movement, the 20-year-old was at the centre of what was an exceptionally positive performance from Celtic.

And McIntyre believes that bringing back some form of competitive reserve league would enable Celtic to keep a tighter reign on the development of their players.

"You can see the value in someone like Aidan Nesbitt going out on loan and also to the right club," said McIntyre.

"We are really pleased with him.

"We need a colt league so we can control our own players.

“The main thing for us is progression and development. But we have a fantastic manager just now and we have to make sure we benefit from that. The young players see the progression as well and one or two have already played in the first-team; Jack Aitchison and Calvin Miller have been in there and there are one or two there tonight who might get a wee chance."

Kieran Tierney and Callum McGregor watched the game as well as Hops chief executive Peter Lawwell.

Read more: Celtic U20 3-0 Rangers U20: Hoops clinch Youth Cup glory with Old Firm win at Hampden

The sight of the two players, who have both made an impact this season, is something that will be particularly heartening for young players who are keen to follow their progress into the senior team.

“We couldn’t stop KT coming – I think he was after something like 10 tickets off me the other day," smiled McIntyre. "It is great because they have come through the academy structure and they are great examples. It shows that there is transparency there and there is an opportunity there.