CELTIC manager Brendan Rodgers believes that Kilmarnock striker Kris Boyd has been the standout player outwith his own side this season, and named him as a contender for the end of season awards.

Rodgers has also been impressed by Hibernian duo John McGinn and Dylan McGeouch, but he singled out revitalised hitman Boyd for particular praise.

“I think you have to look at Kris Boyd,” Rodgers said. “The turnaround for Kris to, one, be available - when you become an older professional that can be more difficult. There is no doubt that through his career, [from] 20 yards in he has been brilliant. Clinical, striking, heading...he just smells a goal and it is there. So, in fairness to Kris he is done very, very well.”

Rodgers believes you can’t underestimate the role that Kilmarnock manager Stevie Clarke has played to get the best out of Boyd.

“Stevie has put the trust in him and given him the confidence and he has responded to that,” he said. “It is a counter attack game, so he is starting from a real deep position as well. He is not pressing high and up there where the chances are. He is starting from a deep position and getting up there and you see his finishes have been really, really good. Stevie has done fantastic since he has gone in there.”