GREG HAILS ‘MENTOR’ JACKIE Parkhead full-back prays for stricken Hoops hero and agent McNamara

GREG TAYLOR has described his agent Jackie McNamara as his mentor, as the full-back prays that the Celtic legend makes a full recovery after suffering a bleed to the brain.

Taylor was stunned when the news broke about the 46-year-old’s collapse outside his home in York.

McNamara remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital, and present-day Celtic full-back Taylor is hoping to be able to lean on the advice of a man who has been instrumental in his career once again soon.

“I wouldn’t describe him as an agent because he’s more of a mentor and someone I would speak with most days,” Taylor said. “He’s had a massive influence on my career, especially since he was also a full-back who played at the highest level.

“He’s constantly in my thoughts at the moment and I hope he makes a full recovery. He’s a Celtic legend and they appreciate what he did for the club. Jackie has always been there just to chat to and not necessarily about football. It’s just good to have someone like that available to you.”

McNamara spent 10 years at Celtic after joining from Dunfermline Athletic in 1995, winning four league titles, three Scottish Cups and three League Cups, so it is little wonder that Taylor hangs on his words as he works towards establishing himself in the Celtic first-team.

“He’s given me wee pointers here and there after games,” he said. “He understands the pressures and expectations at this massive club and that’s helped me, too.”