“It’s speculation, but that’s because he’s a good player,” Dundee boss on McCowan link

Dundee manager Tony Docherty has commented on Luke McCowan’s future at the club following rumoured interest from Celtic…

Docherty said: “It’s speculation, but that’s because he’s a good player. I thought he grabbed the game for us on Sunday. I thought he went on to be the best performer on the pitch and when you do that of course he will attract attention.

“People say this, that and the other thing. For me, it is pure speculation – until I get told there is anything happened Luke is my captain, a driving force around the place. He’s got a level head. He shows real maturity and people can see that in his interviews. He shows a real level of maturity. He’s not a daft boy, he knows how to conduct himself.

“Luke became a big part of our leadership group last season, and he thrives on that responsibility. He’s one of those players who puffs his chest out with a bit of responsibility and shows leadership. You can see that developing in him. That’s why he’s such an important player at Dundee. And listen, he loves it here. He loves it. So, until I know otherwise, he’s my player, he’s my wee buddy and he’ll keep playing.”

The Dundee boss doesn’t seem too concerned about the interest, despite teams like Hibs and Bolton also rumoured to be taking a look at the attacking midfielder.

And it’s no surprise that he’s caught the eye already. Last term, he scored ten goals and assisted five, helping his side to secure a top-six finish in the Scottish Premiership.

In the new season, the 26-year-old has already shown his class, netting twice and having three assists to his name.

He has a single year left on his contract at Dens Park, meaning that if Celtic were to make a move for the player, it would likely be at a discounted price.

Meanwhile, rumoured Celtic target Hannibal Mejbri says that he is “tired” of sitting on the bench in a revealing interview.

Jessica Elliott