Celtic missed out on Newcastle United striker Leon Best yesterday.

The Daily Mail says on a day of dead ends for Parkhead manager Neil Lennon, the SPL leaders tried repeatedly to bolster their attacking options - and Lennon's attentions finally turned to Republic of Ireland international Best, who has 18 months to run on his St James' Park deal.

Celtic attempted to sign the striker on loan before being told by Newcastle they would prefer a permanent deal. In the end, the player himself opted to stay put and fight for his first-team place rather than move to the SPL.