RONNY DEILA has admitted Stefan Johansen has the ability to perform in the English top flight.
The 24-year-old midfielder has become a mainstay in the first team since the arrival of his former boss at Stromsgodset in the summer.
Deila, appearing on a Norwegian TV station, was asked how long he could keep the player at Celtic. He admitted: “It’s clear it’s difficult.
“He is good enough to play in the Premier League, but then it is a question of whether he wants it.
“I think Stefan is very fond of Celtic and it’s a much bigger club to play for than, for example, West Bromwich.
“Stefan made a wise choice when he chose to go to Celtic. Here he is allowed to develop, not least physically. He has been playing regularly at a high level.”
Johansen also spoke to the TV station to express his happiness in Glasgow, adding he’s not thinking about a summer transfer.
He said: “The reason why I’m doing so well now is that I enjoy where I am.
“I see no reason why I should change clubs. I’m at a club that will win trophies, who have the ambition to play in Europe.”
