SPFL: Celtic manager Ronny Deila hails Scott Brown after 2-1 win over Aberdeen

Ronny Deila lauded the efforts of Scott Brown after Celtic's 2-1 Premiership win over Aberdeen at Parkhead.

The fit-again club captain made an inspirational first appearance of the season to help drive the home side into a two-goal lead through Jason Denayer and Kris Commons, before David Goodwillie reduced the deficit.

It was Celtic's first victory in five games and Deila was delighted with the efforts of his team - for the first hour at least.

"Scott Brown is our leader and it is fantastic to have him back," said manager Deila.

"I had to start laughing in the first 10 minutes, he was tackling the whole pitch. He is so important for us. He got tired like the rest of the team.

"I think we were fantastic in the first 60 minutes. There were some spells that were very good and the tempo in the pressing and passing was good and we created a lot of chances. We should have killed the game before their goal."

Dons boss Derek McInnes claimed his side were denied a penalty with 10 minutes remaining when Niall McGinn's fierce free-kick was blocked by a leaping Commons.

He said: "I've seen it again and Commons put both his hands up to stop the ball. The shot is from 10 yards.

"Whether it's going in is irrelevant. He can't put his hands up there when he's got an opportunity to get out the way or use his body. More often than not you see that being a penalty.

"The referee should see that. If we get that, we've still got time to go and win the game. I spoke to the referee and said I was disappointed it wasn't given. He never gave me an explanation.

"We're disappointed to come away with nothing but recognise there are one or two things we could do better."

Northern Ireland forward McGinn added: "It definitely hit his hand but either they go with you or don't, and today it didn't.

"We have to move on, but in saying that I think our second-half performance was good enough to win the game."