Hooper on the double again for Celtic

Hooper 19, 80, Wanyama 33, Brown 84

Two goals from Gary Hooper helped Celtic to a convincing home win over Dundee United and undoubtedly stiffened manager Neil Lennon’s resolve to get the best price possible for the striker if he is to leave Parkhead this month.

Before kick-off Lennon confirmed that his striker had turned down a contract offer while also revealing that the club had turned down another offer from Norwich after rejecting a bid, reported to be about €6 million, for the 24-year-old last week.

Attracting interest

Hooper, who has 18 months left on his current deal, showed why he is attracting increasing interest when he converted a Georgios Samaras pass in the 19th minute before midfielder Victor Wanyama headed in number two before the break.

Former Scunthorpe striker Hooper struck again 10 minutes from time to take his tally to 22 before he set up substitute Scott Brown for the fourth.

Lennon tinkered with his side following their 4-1 home win over Hearts at the weekend, in which Hooper had also grabbed a double. Defender Thomas Rogne, midfielder Beram Kayal and striker Lassad Nouioui came in for Adam Matthews, Brown and Kris Commons, the latter out of the squad with a rib injury.

Anthony Stokes replaced Lassad to make his first appearance since August after recovering from an ankle injury as the the champions go 12 points clear of Inverness at the top of the table. The focus, however, will remain on Hooper over the coming days.