Celtic winger Gary Mackay-Steven believes recent run of games is helping his form

Celtic winger Gary Mackay-Steven believes his recent run in the team has led to an improvement in his form.

The 25-year-old returned to the starting line-up in the middle of January and has scored five goals in 10 games.

Mackay-Steven was the standout performer in Saturdays Glasgow derby against Partick Thistle, where he played a part in both Celtic goals in the 2-1 victory at Firhill.

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The win maintained Celtic's one-point advantage at the top of the Scottish Premiership, with the Hoops having played one match less than nearest challengers Aberdeen.

And the former Dundee United favourite is delighted to be playing a big part in helping Celtic in their chase for a domestic double.

"You really get into your stride when you get a sustained run in the team," he said at an event promoting the Celtic FC Foundation's annual 'Zip Slide in Paradise Fundraising Event'.

"You get your match fitness up and start feeling good about yourself and certainly I have done that and I am looking forward to the next games.

"We have a big squad here and any chance you get, you need to impress and luckily I have done that lately and it is about keeping it going.

"We all get on with each other and training is always enjoyable and obviously everyone is vying for only 11 starting spots so it is not easy.

"But you just need to enjoy it and play your own game and look to impress and that is what I have been doing."

Celtic travel to Kilmarnock for Saturday's Sky live clash at Rugby Park looking to beat the Ayrshire side for the first time this season after two draws in the league.

While many observers have been dismissive of a challenge to Celtic as they chase a fifth-successive title, Mackay-Steven insists Aberdeen offer a real threat this season.

"We are in a title fight this year, no doubt," Mackay-Steven said.

"Aberdeen have shown over the course of the season how strong they are and they keep winning as well so that's great for us.

"It keeps us on our toes and we welcome the challenge. We need to be on our game if we want to stay on top and that is what we are looking to do."