Celtic new boy Niall McGinn claims his "eye-opening" experience at Saturday's Old Firm clash at Ibrox has given him added inspiration to become a success at the Parkhead club.

The Northern Ireland international, 21, will commence training with the Scottish champions early in the new year after signing from Derry City on a three-and-a-half year deal earlier in the month for a fee reported to be in excess of €210,000.

McGinn travelled over from his Donaghmore home to take his place among the visiting fans in the Broomloan Road stand and see Scott McDonald's winner take Celtic seven points clear of Rangers at the top of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League.

The former Dungannon Swifts winger explained afterwards how a day mixing with the Parkhead fans gave him a fresh and inspirational perspective on what awaits him in 2009.

"It all kicked-in on Saturday. My agent, Gerry Carlile, and myself flew over for the game and we got a lift to Ibrox on a supporters bus from Coatbridge.

"It was an eye-opener.

"It was good to see the other side of it, to get a feeling for the supporters and see what an Old Firm game really means to the Celtic fans.

"The fans were first class. I was recognised and stopped at the match and people were having their pictures taken with me.

"It was great to be in there among them and I was jumping about and cheering with everyone else when Scott McDonald scored the goal and what a great goal it was too.

"Hopefully I will do the same one day.
 
"We got the bus back to this wee bar in Coatbridge after the game and there was music playing and the fans were really happy," added the PFAI Young Player of the Year.

"Then it was announced over the microphone that I was in the place.

"More people recognised me then and they were coming up to me, wishing me all the best and having their pictures taken.

"It gave me an extra lift and the inspiration to do well when I come over to begin my Celtic career.

"I'm not sure yet exactly what day I have to report for duty but I can't wait to get started."