Samaras explains penalty change

Samaras took his tally to seven goals for the season

Celtic striker Georgios Samaras says he was told by captain Stephen McManus to take his side's second penalty in the 3-1 win over Kilmarnock.

Aiden McGeady had placed the ball on the spot but was forced to stand aside for the Greek.

"The skipper said that I was to take it and I took it," said Samaras.

"It's up to the gaffer who takes them from now on because different players want to take them."

Eyebrows were raised as McGeady deferred to the former Manchester City forward, amid speculation that the winger has fallen out with manager Gordon Strachan.

The Republic of Ireland internationalist started the match at Rugby Park on the bench for the third outing in succession, replacing Shaun Maloney in the second half.

MY SPORT: DEBATE What do you make of McGeady's absence from Celtic's starting XI?

And last season's Scottish players' player of the year was eager to step up after Maloney had put his first half effort past the post.

Samaras, who had already scored a wonderful solo effort, was appointed by McManus and he says he would be willing to shoulder the responsibility again.

"Shunsuke Nakamura and Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink can also take penalties, and I think that whoever is feeling good should take them," said Samaras.

"I felt really good and took it and scored. The next game? Who knows?"