Matt O'Riley's focus on Celtic amidst Denmark chatter

By Sam Preston

February 16, 2023

Celtic’s Matt O’Riley has been asked about his international ambitions to play for the senior Denmark side.

In an interview with the Daily Record, the 22-year-old was asked directly about whether he hopes his Bhoys form is enough to get into Kasper Hjulmand’s squad.

He said that he wants to play for the Euro 2020 semi-finalists, but that if he focuses on his Celtic form, that will come in due course.

O’Riley played for England at Under-16s and Under-18s level, but has now switched and made four Under-21 appearances for Denmark.

O’Riley on his international ambitions

The midfielder said: “It’s always an aim,” when asked about the prospect of playing senior football for Denmark in the future.

“But that only comes if I do well at Celtic.

“So my sole focus is doing well there and I think the rest takes care of itself.”

O’Riley’s account for the 2022/23 season is finally open after he scored in Saturday’s 5-1 Scottish Cup victory over St Mirren.

That was his first goal for over nine months – last netting in a 4-1 victory over Hearts last May, and he will hope to not have to wait so long for the next one.

That goal and performance off the bench was a good sign, and he will hope to build on that, and eventually get to the levels Denmark are looking for.