Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley isn’t likely to have his ‘head turned’ despite being the subject of summer attention, according to BBC pundit Alan Hutton.

The Lowdown: Newcastle’s scouting mission

The 21-year-old put pen to paper with the Scottish Premiership giants in January, but has already been attracting interest after making an instant impact under Ange Postecoglou.

Newcastle United were credited with a strong admiration for the Danish starlet, and despite failing to complete a summer deal, seem to have continued their pursuit by sending scouts out to watch their target in action during the international break last month.

The Latest: Hutton’s praise for O’Riley

Speaking to Football Insider, Hutton insisted that O’Riley won’t be phased by the attention, even if he’s seeing constant rumours all over social media.

“I am sure if he is on social media at all he would know about all the speculation out there.

“He will know about it. The club don’t have to come and say to you every single time they get an enquiry, it doesn’t really work that way. He will know himself he played well so there will be teams watching.

“He doesn’t seem the type of player that will have his head turned. He is focused on what he is doing best which is playing for Celtic at this moment in time.

“He has just got to the club, even though he is doing well and is a standout player, he still has time on his hands. I am sure there will be teams snooping about, so it will be interesting over the next season to see how he develops further.”

The Verdict: Celtic’s strong position

Celtic have the upper hand when it comes to O’Riley given he’s still got four years left on his contract, and they must do everything they can to keep hold of him.

The Hoops ace has already provided five assists in seven league starts this season, and currently averages three shots and 2.4 key passes per 90 minutes (WhoScored), proving to be a constant threat in the final third.

He will undoubtedly receive even more interest in the New Year should his excellent form continue, but whether he will decide to stay at Parkhead if a big club were to come in yet remains to be seen.