Scott McDonald claims his Celtic strike partner Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink's all round attributes should earn the Dutchman a new contract. Vennegoor of Hesselink scored his first goal since September during Celtic's 4-0 win over Hamilton on Saturday.

But McDonald and boss Gordon Strachan have pointed to the 30-year-old's attitude and contribution in other areas as evidence of his worth to the team.

McDonald said: "You always want to keep good players, and experienced players.

"He has been in title-winning sides, not just at Celtic, but at PSV. He has got that winning mentality, which you need to have at a club like this.

"Even through the bad times he has been a fantastic character around the changing room. His confidence never leaves him and even if he is down, he doesn't show the rest of the players that's the case.

"That's the type of professional that he is, and that's the type of people you want around your dressing room.

"If you're asking if I want him here next year, and to have a partner like that, then of course I do, it would be a pleasure."