Hartson voices Celtic concern

John Hartson scored 25 goals for Celtic last season

Celtic striker John Hartson has confirmed he has had talks with manager Martin O'Neill about his lack of first-team opportunities this term.

The Welsh international has started just one Premier League game this season when he scored the winner against Hibernian last month.

But the 27-year-old insists he wants to prove himself at Parkhead.

"I've always said that if I had a problem with being out of the team then I would go to see the manager in person and that's what I've done," Hartson told the Daily Record.

I just have to keep trying to prove that I belong in the side

John Hartson

"The last thing I'm going to do is go into details now about what was said - the discussion was private and will remain between those four walls.

"But obviously it's fair to assume I'm frustrated at not holding down a place in the side, which is why I felt it was time to clear the air.

"Martin now understands exactly how I feel and I know his thoughts as well.

"All I would like to say is that my first goal remains the same as it was when I heard in the summer that Celtic would be looking to let me go - I don't want to leave.

"There is no question about what I'm aiming for and that is getting back into Celtic's team.

"I know I can do a job for the club and I just have to keep trying to prove that I belong in the side."

Despite bagging 25 goals for Celtic last season and knocking in five this campaign, Hartson has not been able to dislodge the strike pairing of Henrik Larsson and Chris Sutton.

Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland, Hartson's agent Jonathan Barnet confirmed the player's desire to remain in Glasgow.

"John has made it clear how much he loves Celtic and he hopes to stay at the club," said Barnet.

"The talks were good but he needs to be playing first team football.

"If things don't change, then perhaps there will be more discussions nearer Christmas."