Morten Wieghorst says ‘ambitious’ Celtic player can cap off fine season with Euro 2024 call-up

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Celtic fans will testify that Matt O’Riley has been one of their best performers this term under Brendan Rodgers.

The Denmark international has found a rich vein of form this term, registering ten goals and 12 assists in 33 appearances across all competitions [Transfermarkt].

During the January window, his potential was laid bare as La Liga outfit Atletico Madrid were among the suitors for his services, seeing a loan offer with an obligation to buy in the summer knocked back by Rodgers.

According to reports, Inter Milan, Girona and Aston Villa were also sniffing around the 23-year-old before he remained at Parkhead for the rest of the campaign, at least.

In the Scottish Premiership, O’Riley ranks as Fotmob’s top performer for Celtic, obtaining an average match rating of 8.02/10 for his exploits on league duty.

Last November, the London-born midfielder also added the accolade of picking up his first international cap for Denmark to his impressive career achievement haul, appearing for 61 minutes in a 2-0 defeat to Northern Ireland.

Kasper Hjulmand’s side will be on the plane to EURO 2024 this summer, and O’Riley will be keen to ensure he is part of their plans for the tournament.

Morten Wieghorst backs Celtic’s O’Riley in his EURO 2024 push

Morten Wieghorst spent seven years at Parkhead and is a popular figure among supporters due to his role in helping to stop Rangers from completing the unthinkable in 1998.

The 52-year-old is also Denmark’s assistant manager and has given a positive verdict on O’Riley’s chances of being able to work his way into their EURO 2024 plans.

Speaking to the Official Celtic FC Podcast, Wieghorst stated: “He was very interested in playing for Denmark. At first, he was picked for the U-21s, but we sensed right away that he was a genuine lad who is very ambitious.

“He was an important part of the U21s, and last year, he got his chance in the full international set-up. The rest is history, and I know he wants to do everything to get into the squad for the Euros.”

O’Riley has the talent to contribute both at club and international level for years to come and it is great to see his progression being lauded by another Dane with strong Parkhead connections.

Celtic fans will be keen to see O’Riley involved in Germany this summer; however, it would also likely trigger suitors to circle for his services should he perform to a high standard.