Celtic 'could not compete'

CELTIC knew of Manchester United's interest in Liam Miller before Christmas but could do nothing more to keep him, Parkhead boss Martin O'Neill has admitted.

The Celtic manager's fears were realised as the Premiership champions signed the 22-year-old midfielder on a pre-contract deal.

But it hardly came as a shock as United chief executive David Gill warned Celtic executive director Peter Lawwell before Christmas they would try to sign him.