McManus was helping launch Celtic's new away strip

Celtic captain Stephen McManus has warned that the Scottish Premier League does not offer an easy place for players to end their careers.

They and title rivals Rangers have been linked with a number of players since the end of the season, several of whom could be classed as veterans.

But McManus warned that the pressures were similar to playing for one of England's top four clubs.

"A lot of the players found that out this year," said the Scotland defender.

"Unless you have come from Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool or Arsenal, players won't understand the pressures of what it is like to play here in front of 60,000 fans who are demanding success constantly.

"One thing is for sure - players who are maybe coming to the end of their career and who think this will be a nice wee place to play your football should know that it's not like that.

I am going to enjoy my holidays and not even think about anything to do with Celtic Celtic defender Stephen McManus

"It was our punters who were getting on the team's back and on the case of the manager.

"Scottish football is not a backwater. It is probably the opposite, it is a good place for hungry young players who want to be successful."

However, McManus admits that Celtic are unable to compete financially in the transfer market with England's top clubs.

"It's just the way the market's gone," he said. "The Premier League has been able to blow everybody away."

There had been speculation about the future of manager Gordon Strachan, who had been criticised by fans until Celtic's late rally and Rangers' stumbles led to a third title in a row.

"You obviously have to speak to the manager, but we obviously hope that he stays," said McManus.

"It wasn't just the fans, there were others jumping on the bandwagon and giving him stick, but our gaffer is mentally strong, so he certainly wasn't worried.

"I would like to think he will be here next season, but I am going to enjoy my holidays and not even think about anything to do with Celtic."