Brown hails Balde as unbeatable

Balde was a major influence against Dundee United on Wednesday

Bobo Balde was hailed by team-mate Scott Brown after the defender's return coincided with Celtic's first clean sheet in 35 away games.

"He's a good defender and a nightmare to play against," said Brown after the 2-0 victory over Dundee United.

Balde had been frozen out of the team since rejecting a summer transfer to Sunderland and he has also been linked with a January move to Birmingham.

"He wins everything in the air and you can't really beat him," said Brown.

"Bobo's the same in training and he wants to play games as well. He has a great attitude.

"The gaffer wants him in the squad and the gaffer played him, so obviously he is still part of his plans."

I had a very tough time, but I was working hard and I hoped to be back in the team Celtic defender Bobo Balde

Balde was at the heart of the defence with Stephen McManus as Celtic achieved their first clean sheet away from home since October 2006.

The Guinean broke his leg in the corresponding fixture last Boxing Day, but he was happier this time as he finally made his first appearance of the season.

"I'm delighted to be back in the team and happy that the team won with a clean sheet," he said.

"I'm happy we didn't concede any goals."

Manager Gordon Strachan has dismissed suggestions he was snubbing Balde and praised the defender for his latest display.

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But Balde himself had found it difficult being left out of the first team.

"I had a very tough time, but I was working hard and I hoped to be back in the team," he said.

"I'm just working in the hope I'll get more consideration and playing, to stay in the team.

"I was just happy to be involved with the team."