Celtic academy product Mark Millar believes midfielder Stuart Armstrong is an ideal role model for all young footballers.
Millar began his professional career at Parkhead in 2008, but failed to make a single first-team appearance before being shipped off to Falkirk two years.
He had showed promise during his time at Celtic, but after his career struggled to take flight, Millar has urged young players to find themselves an alternative career path if things don’t work out.
The 29-year-old also believes that the next generation of footballing talent could learn a great deal from watching current Hoops star Stuart Armstrong, who had a storming campaign last term.
Armstrong was one of the most consistent performers during Celtic’s domestic treble-winning campaign, contributing an incredible 17 goals and seven assists from 47 appearances in all competitions.
But Millar believes the work of the former Dundee United midfielder off the pitch must also be held in high regard, where Armstrong has spent his time studying for a law degree.
He told the Scottish Sun: “When I was a young player at Celtic, I thought I was set for life. I wasn’t. You need to think about the bigger picture and it took me a while to realise that.
“Look at Stuarty – his football could set him up for life but he’s also got the degree to fall back on. Hats off to him for that. It’s different class and he’s the guy every young footballer should look up to.
“Stuart proves that if you work hard on and off the pitch, then you can do really well. You couldn’t meet a nicer guy and he’s been outstanding for Celtic.”
Armstrong’s red hot form has also reportedly caught the eye of a number of clubs, including Premier League newcomers Brighton.
The Daily Record claimed last month that Chris Hughton’s side were weighing up a summer move after discussions within their scouting network about his talents.
Despite the interest, Celtic will be keen to see their prized midfield asset commit his long-term future to the club, with just one year left to run on his current deal.