Strachan still on lookout for new recruits

CELTIC manager Gordon Strachan will continue the search to strengthen his squad, despite a fine showing from his young players in the 1-1 draw with Manchester City.

The Parkhead side started with an unusually youthful pairing of Scott Cuthbert and Darren O'Dea at the centre of defence last night, with 20-year-old Paul McGowan in midfield.

Fellow youngsters Paul Caddis and Mark Millar came on in the second half, and McGowan's late equaliser – after Martin Petrov had given the visitors the lead with a fine goal nine minutes after the break – was more than deserved as the home side finished strongly.

Strachan was reluctant to confirm reports that Barcelona youngster Marc Crosas is on his way to Parkhead – but admits his search for new blood continues before the Clydesdale Bank Premier League curtain-raiser against St Mirren at Celtic Park on Sunday.

He said: "I am not going to rush into it. We have another couple of weeks, and I have a team in my mind for Sunday. So it wouldn't make any difference if we added before then. It's no secret I would like to add one or two players to the squad, because I think the players deserve it. They have done very well over the last three years and deserve fresh blood, enthusiasm and ability."