Ferry targets first-team spot with Bhoys

Simon Ferry volleyed Celtic reserves to the league championship for the eighth time in a row – then vowed to fight for a first-team place next season.

The 21-year-old midfielder is back to full fitness after being out for the best part of two and half years with an ankle injury.

There were no signs of rustiness yesterday when his 70th-minute strike against Old Firm rivals Rangers at Ibrox once more took the title back to Parkhead.

Manager Gordon Strachan has drafted Ferry into a few squads in recent months as a reward for his tenacity and performances in training but he is now looking to make a claim for a first-team spot next season.

“It felt brilliant to score that goal, it was a great ending to the day,” Ferry said.

“I’ve been back training for three months now and I’ve used this season to get fit.

“I didn’t think I was going to play so to come back and play five games and get in a few (first-team) squads has been great.

“Gordon Strachan has been really encouraging and hearing some of the things he has said to me has given me a massive lift and, come pre-season, I will be trying to get in the team and play.”

Ferry, though, will be guided by the advice of Strachan.

He said: “I’ve been at Celtic since I was 11, so it’s a long time.

“I will speak to the manager at the beginning of the season and if he thinks I should go out on loan then I will listen to him.

“If he thinks I will challenge for a place then I will stay.

“But if I can stay fit then I feel I am ready to play.”