Leigh Griffiths claims he is fit enough to be pitched into Celtic games from the start - despite manager Neil Lennon questioning his readiness.

The Hoops striker has been lacking match fitness this season but insists the only way he'll build it up is by being given time on the pitch to improve.

Griff has been resigned to playing a bit-part role from the bench this term so far, but is adamant he will be ready when called upon to lead the line. "We have four strikers here all vying for the one place just now, with the formation we go with," he said.

“It is about working hard in training and trying to make an impact when you can, if you can come off the bench.

“Hopefully I have done that and given the manager a wee bit of a headache going forward.

“He said after the game that I need to get fitter. Well that green stuff, the pitch, I need to be on that to get match fit.

“I am not unfit. I am fit. But just not match fit and you can tell. Obviously I have not had a run of games.

“Hopefully I can get a wee run now and get my fitness right back up.

“There is a difference between being fit and match fit and you need to play games to get match fit and the more minutes I get the fitter I will be.

“Luckily I have still been in squads, still been on the bench and have just been unfortunate that Patryk (Klimala) got the nod but I got the nod on Sunday and managed to make an impact so hopefully it’s my turn now.”