The young Celtic striker has had a taste of the big time this season since hitting the headlines with Neil Lennon's first-team.

Brought on for his Cham-pions League debut against Helsingborgs last week, Watt has also had a fair showing in the SPL games since the new campaign got underway.

Now, with matches against Spanish giants Barca, Benfica and Spartak Moscow waiting in the group stages of the lucrative Champions League, Watt is desperate to play a part in the forthcoming big nights that now await for Celtic.

Given that the teenager had not considered a career in professional football until only three years ago, when a mate urged him to consider a trial with Airdrie, his progress is all the more remarkable.

The 18-year-old has made a substantial impact since breaking into the Parkhead first team, with a brace in the Caledonian Stadium 11 days ago as Celtic beat Inverness 4-2.

The goals added to his growing reputation, with the player also scoring a double on his Celtic debut back in April when he netted twice at Fir Park.

He would be forgiven for pinching himself should he find himself listed in Celtic's Champions League squad.

"It is the dream of any young player to make it into the Champions League and to play there," he said. "I have been at Celtic Park on big European nights as a fan before so I know what to expect and I know how much the supporters will be up for it.

"It is brilliant. It is great for the club and it is great for the players just to be in that kind of environment and playing against the best in the game.

"I thought the attitude of all the players last Wednesday night was great. No-one wanted to think of the first leg and settle for that score – they were all desperate to go out and score more goals and put on a performance. They did that and we got the rewards for it."

Watt didn't have the best of afternoons during the 2-2 draw with Hibs at the weekend and there will be plenty of competition for frontline places this season.

Anthony Stokes is still injured, but new signing Miku will be expected to feature prominently. And Watt is keen to continue his learning curve.

"I have played at Celtic Park against Rangers, although I hardly got a kick of the ball.

"Up until last week, that would have been the biggest game I've been involved in, but the Champions League games will be something special.

"Hopefully I can be involved in as many games as possible as the season goes on."