Ronny Deila has admitted that he would like to keep on-loan defender Jason Denayer at Celtic next season.

The 19-year-old joined the Scottish champions on a season-long loan deal from Manchester City, and has so far made 33 appearances and scored six goals for the Hoops.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of his side's match against St Mirren later this week, the manager told reporters: "Jason is going back to Manchester City after the season to have a pre-season there and we will see if we can get him back or not. That is something we want, but we have to co-operate with City.

"But I think it's good for him to stay here because hopefully we will get Champions League qualification and that will make him even more experienced.

"Jason is ambitious, he wants to play at the highest level he can. But it's playing that is the most important thing, and playing at Manchester City is very, very hard. If not, I think Celtic is a good club for him."

Denayer made his debut for Belgium during their 1-0 win over Israel last night.