O’Riley’s wanted by Danes
Weighorst in the Europa League defeat to Bodo/Glimt on Thursday.
Just a month after joining Ange Postecoglou’s side from MK Dons for £1.5million, O’Riley is firmly in the frame for friendlies against Holland and Serbia next month.
The midfielder qualifies to play for England, Denmark or Norway but has committed to the Danes – his mother’s homeland
O’Riley hopes that if he helps Celtic win the title and qualify for the Champions League – he could be headed to the World Cup.
Weighorst admits O’Riley is very much on the radar of Denmark boss Kasper Hjulmand and Under-21 coach Jesper Sorensen.
Weighorst said: “Matt’s had a very good start to his Celtic career.
“He’s got a very good left foot, he’s good on the ball and has vision. There’s no better place to be for him.
“People in our association have been aware of Matt for longer than I have. I only knew about him when he made the change from MK Dons.
“But people in our system had him involved at Under-16 and
Under-17 level. I’ve watched all of his games so far this season and he’s done well. He looks composed.
“He sees passes and he got a goal at Aberdeen the other week.
“First and foremost, Matt has to make up his mind whether he wants to play for Denmark.
“He’s got the ability to be in contention, but the player needs to want to play for his country.
“The head coach is in touch with Matt so we’ll see.
“No disrespect to MK Dons but he’s at a higher level now, he has a higher profile playing in front of 60,000 fans at Celtic and in Europe.
“He will definitely develop in the coming seasons.”
O’Riley, who is still eligible for Denmark’s Under-21’s, said: “My mum is Danish and I like the country. If they called me up I’d be very honoured.
“I’m half Danish so it’s something I’m interested in.
“The World Cup is definitely an aim. Some people will say it’s a long shot but I’m playing for Celtic and hopefully next season we’ll be in the Champions League.
“That could get me recognition on the international stage.
“I can only take it game by game at Celtic and hopefully the rest takes care of itself.”