Strachan says Aliadiere’s chance to shine will come

CELTIC manager Gordon Strachan yesterday assured on-loan striker Jeremie Aliadiere that his time will come - if he can catch his eye like Craig Beattie and Shaun Maloney.

The 22-year-old has yet to start a competitive match since his high-profile move from Arsenal in the summer.

In contrast, Maloney has made a big impact while Beattie has come off the bench twice and scored twice.

But Aliadiere and his manager have shot down claims that the Frenchman was ready to throw in the towel and Strachan has urged him to grab his chance when it inevitably comes.

“That’s a rumour and I’ll only deal with that when Jeremie comes in and says ‘gaffer can I have a word’,” said the Scot. “I’m not going to deal with headlines.”

But Strachan cannot wait until he feasts his eyes on Shunsuke Nakamura in competitive action for the first time. The Japanese international playmaker is ready to make his bow after his switch from Reggina and the former Southampton boss is convinced the fans are in for a treat.

“He’s ready and he’s buzzing,” enthused Strachan.