McDonald named player of month

Scott McDonald said his critics were wrong to dismiss him

Celtic striker Scott McDonald has been named the Clydesdale Bank player of the month for September.

The Australian forward scored a hat-trick in the 3-0 win against Dundee United at Celtic Park.

McDonald, 24, who signed from Motherwell in the summer, is Celtic's top scorer with eight goals this term.

"The award means a lot to me. I don't think too many people expected me to play as many games. I've proved a lot of critics wrong," said McDonald.

Interview: Celtic striker Scott McDonald

The striker was instrumental in helping Celtic progress to the group stages of the Champions League and scored the winner in the 2-1 victory over AC Milan.

"I've always had belief in myself. I believe I can play at the highest level and hopefully there is more to come from me," he added.

"I knew it was going to be tough but there was never a doubt in my mind that I could play here.

"You will always have people that will not back you, no matter where you are so it's always nice to shut those critics up."