Lafferty open to Celtic move

But striker has no qualms in staying with Burnley

Last updated: 7th January 2008

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Lafferty: May wait for move

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Kyle Lafferty would give 'due consideration' to a move to Celtic, but insists he is happy to stay at Burnley.

The young forward has already been the subject of one bid from Celtic, while Fulham were also interested during Lawrie Sanchez's brief tenure at Craven Cottage.

He impressed against Arsenal in the FA Cup on Sunday before being sent off and is keen to play at a higher level.

But the Northern Ireland international feels playing against Premier League opposition on a regular basis is a more long-term target.

"It may be that I might have to consider staying at Burnley or even moving to Scotland," said the 20-year-old.

"I will leave it up to my club, but if an offer came in from Celtic and Burnley accepted it, I would give it due consideration."

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Former Northern Ireland captain Neil Lennon quit international football after his move to Celtic provoked sectarian abuse, which reached a head when he was the subject of a death threat.

Lafferty said: "Obviously, I am aware of what happened to Neil Lennon from Northern Ireland when he joined Celtic from Leicester City.

"But I am also aware that those days are gone now, thankfully. I know my family will support me no matter what I do.

"I am only 20 and I still have three years left on my Burnley contract. By the age of 23, hopefully, I will be a better, stronger player, I'll have developed more and maybe that might be the time to consider my future."