DEILA APOLOGIES TO McNAMARA

CELTIC boss Ronny Deila has apologised to Dundee United counterpart Jackie McNamara.

The Tannadice gaffer criticised the Norwegian for his conduct in the Gary Mackay-Steven deal.

The 24-year-old Tannadice winger last week signed a pre-contract agreement which will see him join the Hoops in the summer.

To McNamara’s annoyance, Deila spoke publicly of taking him during the transfer window, although the reported fee of £250,000 is a stumbling block.

The former Parkhead skipper said: “I like to speak about players behind the scenes and I don’t think it’s right to speak publicly about it.”

Deila, though, seemed appeared surprised by McNamara’s complaint, but was suitably contrite.

He said: “I just have to say sorry if that offended him in any way.

“This is a rule that I haven’t heard before so I have to learn from this.

“I was at a smaller cub in Norway and everybody wanted my players all the time.

“But I am happy that they want my players because that means I did something well.

“However, if he didn’t like it I have to apologise for that and think about it the next time.”