Jason Denayer: No permanent deal with Celtic

Celtic defender Jason Denayer speaks ahead of his side's clash against FC Astra. Picture: SNS

The 19-year old Belgian joined Ronny Deila’s side in the summer and has impressed in the heart of defence alongside Virgil van Dijk.

He’s even proven himself to be quite adept in the other penalty area, netting three times in ten appearances for Celtic thus far.

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However, while he is grateful to Celtic for giving him the chance to earn valuable experience by playing in the first team, he insists he wishes to return to his parent club and fight for his place there.

“I watched Manchester City play in the Champions League on Tuesday and I want to be back there next season,” said Denayer, “But I don’t think about this too much. I prefer to think about the present at Celtic.

“I want to do well enough here to maybe play there.

“The loan move has already helped me a lot. I have played first-team football and been called up to the national team.

“Being at Celtic has given me what I didn’t have at City.

“Reserve team football at Man City is good but it’s not the same as playing for the first team.

“In under-21 football, you play against young opponents. At Celtic, I am playing against men.

“But I still want to go back to England after my loan and try to be a success.

If Denayer were to force his way into the City first team he would likely feature alongside fellow countryman Vincent Kompany.

The Celtic defender was recently called up to the international squad for Belgium’s Euro 2016 qualifying match with Andorra.

He didn’t get the chance to play, but earned some valuable experience training with the squad before watching on as Kompany led the Red Devils in their 6-0 hammering of the European football minnows.

“Going away with the Belgian national squad was a great experience for me,” added Denayer.

“The manager had spoken to me the week before but it was still a surprise to get a call-up for a competitive game.

“Everyone listens to Vincent [Kompany]. He has the respect of everyone in the country.

“I don’t feel extra pressure because people make comparisons with myself and Vincent. That is ok with me.

“Vincent is an inspiration to me but I don’t want to be the same as him. He is someone to look up to but I want to be myself.”

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