Chipperfield faced his fellow Aussie in a midweek friendly and after swapping shirts told Scotland on Sunday: "I think Scott could fill Viduka's boots, yes. He's not as tall, but he's strong like Mark, holds the ball up well and brings others into the game.

"I've marked him in training a few times and it's hard to get round him because he's so strong. He's also very quick.

"Playing for Celtic will get Scott more caps. He would have been in the squad for the Asia Cup had it not been for his move to Celtic and there are going to be a couple of gaps opening up in the forward areas because it looks as if John Aloisi and Mark Viduka are going to retire."

Asked about McDonald's ability to win a place in Celtic's first team, Chipperfield was adamant: "He has the mentality to keep fighting for his place. You need to believe in yourself and keep fighting to get in the team. Scott's good enough to make an impact. Playing for Celtic will improve him too. Just training with so many top players will add to his game.

"He's a confident lad and that's the most important thing for a striker, especially at a big club."