Strachan: Pearson stays at Celtic

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan moved to end growing speculation about the future of Stephen Pearson.

The 23-year-old former Motherwell midfielder has struggled to make an impact in his two seasons at Parkhead.

However, his goal against Hearts at Tynecastle on New Year’s day, after coming on as a substitute for Stilian Petrov, sparked a remarkable comeback for the Bank of Scotland Premier League leaders with the Hoops eventually winning 3-2 after being 2-0 down.

Reports had suggested that a number of clubs were lining up a possible move for Pearson during the January transfer window with Preston being at the forefront.

But Strachan told Celticfc.net: “To put an end to recent press speculation, Stephen Pearson is going nowhere.

“Stephen is part of the current first team and I hope he will play a big part in the remainder of the season.”

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell added: “Although there have been expressions of interest, we have received no firm offer for Stephen and none will be encouraged.”