John Kennedy admits Celtic are monitoring St Johnstone midfielder Ali McCann.

We told how scouts were in place at Hampden for Saints' Scottish Cup semi-final against St Mirren last week.

The Northern Irishman has had a tremendous season with 46 appearances in all competitions including in the international set-up.

And Kennedy, the interim Hoops boss, says he is a player the club have been keeping an eye on. "I think watching him from afar, he's an impressive young player who has improved with the exposure of first-team football," Kennedy revealed.

"One thing for Celtic is, we always have to keep our eye on the best young talents in Scotland, that's the first point.

"In terms of where you would want to scout, if there's good young players in Scotland, then you want to make sure you know about them. He's obviously one we know well of. There's no decision over squads or anything but he's certainly a good, talented young player.

"It's good for Scottish football having a player like that coming through."

Kennedy will get a good look at McCann this evening at Parkhead as the Hoops take on Callum Davidson's men.

McCann, 21, was nominated alongside David Turnbull, Rangers' Nathan Patterson and Josh Doig for the PFA young player of the year earlier this afternoon.