Paddy McCourt decided to remain at Celtic after talks with Neil Lennon

Paddy McCourt believes he can fill the creative void left by Aiden McGeady if his Celtic team-mate opts to leave the club in the summer.

McGeady, 24, has been linked with Spartak Moscow and a number of clubs in England's Premier League.

And McCourt, who has signed a three-year contract extension, said he has the ability to shine in the first-team.

"If he does leave it'll definitely open up a space for me and it'll be up to me to grab it," he said.

McCourt has endured a frustrating two-year spell at Celtic since joining the club from Derry City for an undisclosed fee.

"I think I've only made 19 appearances in two years, so there's a lot more to come," said the 26-year-old.

"That was for different reasons - injuries and fitness reasons - when I first came.

"But luckily I'm winning that battle at the moment so I'm hoping this could be my year to kick on and show my best."

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Northern Ireland winger McCourt had a year left on his previous deal.

And, asked if he had been tempted to leave Celtic, he said: "I wouldn't say tempted. When you're not playing as much football as you like then you obviously have to consider your options.

"But after a few chats with the manager, I wasn't long making my mind up to stay here.

"It's a club I love and I'd have been disappointed to leave after the two years I've had here.

"I want to be successful here and I want my time here to be filled with medals; I haven't got one yet."

McCourt played 14 times under previous boss Tony Mowbray, scoring three goals including two superb solo efforts.

He was an unused substitute as Celtic lost 3-0 to Sporting Braga in the first leg of the Champions League third qualifying round.

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