RONNY Deila insisted yesterday that Leigh Griffiths still has a future at Celtic, despite reports linking the forward with what would be a dramatic return to Hibernian.
The Celtic manager said that he wants to keep Griffiths and that the 24-year-old is still in his plans, even though Hibs would be keen to bring the controversial striker back to Easter Road on an emergency three-month loan.
Deila would not rule out Griffiths making an appearance tomorrow night in the Scottish League Cup third-round tie against Heart of Midlothian. However, the Scotland internationalist sat in the stand on Sunday to watch Celtic draw 1-1 with Motherwell and has been used sparingly by Deila since the Norwegian replaced Neil Lennon in June.
Griffiths signed a four-year contract when he joined Celtic for around £1m from Wolves in January but his problems off the field have dented his stock among the club's supporters and the coaching staff.
He scored 39 goals during two season on loan at Hibs. Even though the window has closed, Hibs could hire him as an emergency replacement for injured Farid El Alagui, because they are not in the top flight.
"Leigh's at Celtic and nothing is going on with Hibs," said Deila. "He's here and he's in our plans. There have not been any real talks between the clubs. Leigh is playing games here and he's fighting for a place in the starting XI. We want him here."
Griffiths has scored just one this season, coming off the bench to earn a point at Dundee. Asked what the player needs to do to be given a starting role, Deila replied: "He needs to show himself in training, work hard every day and take his chances when he gets them, same as everybody else.
"Some have done well, some have had ups and downs."
Deila has stated that he is eager to win the League Cup and will play his strongest side against Hearts. Will Griffiths be in the squad if he is still at Celtic? "We'll see," said Deila.
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