It was great to get the two goals to end a fantastic seven years here Henrik Larsson Our man at Hampden: Larsson's parting gift

O'Neill led the praise for the striker, who was playing his last competitive game for the club.

"Both of his goals were magnificent and so important for us," said O'Neill.

"I thought we did well in the first half and were in control, but you still have to score and that's where Henrik made the difference."

Larsson typically played his individual role down but admitted he was delighted to have finished his Celtic career on such a high note.

"Winning this final means everything. I didn't want to leave as a loser in the cup final because I've done it twice before," he said.

"It was great to get the two goals to end a fantastic seven years here. I never dreamt this could happen when I signed."

Alan Thompson was the first of Larsson's team-mates to try to explain the striker's importance to the team.

"This shows what a loss he's going to be for us - he's a genius," said the midfielder.

"I'm delighted for him. He deserves everything he gets."

Neil Lennon was equally full of praise.

"He was tremendous. It's a fitting way to end his time here," said Lennon.

"He's a great loss as a friend and as a team-mate."