Celtic’s Teemu Pukki hoping to shine under Deila

Teemu Pukki is eager to kickstart his Celtic career under Ronny Deila. Picture: Robert Perry

The Finnish international made an underwhelming start to his Parkhead career last term, netting just seven goals in 32 appearances.

But with former Stromsgodset manager Deila now in charge of the Scottish champions, Pukki has high hopes.

The 38-year-old Norwegian has a strict attacking philosophy and that has got Pukki excited.

He told the Celtic website: “It’s a big thing that the manager wants to play attacking football. As a striker you always hope for a manger like that.”

Pukki will return to his home land with the Hoops later this summer after Parkhead chiefs signed up to a Helsinki friendly with English big guns Tottenham on August 2.

“Getting the chance to play in a pre-season with Celtic is a great incentive for me and should make things a little easier for me this year,” said former Schalke striker, who missed out on the warm-up games last term after his late move from Germany.

“I felt good towards the end of the season and was scoring goals and got more confidence in my play. I was playing well otherwise, so this was good for me as it showed what I’m capable of.

“The first year with Celtic has been one of adapting for me. A lot has been different for me over the last year but the end of the season was good and I found it easier to play.”

He added: “They really like football in Finland and I hope the stadium will be full. There are big games coming and we want people at the game against Spurs. They love to come to see big games like that. I hope it will also help to get more fans for Celtic here.”