Former Celtic invincible Dedryk Boyata has credited his time at Celtic as a huge reason why he finds himself playing on the international stage.

Celtic used their city group link more often than not during the Ronny Deila era and he Dedryk was the man who came in to replace on loan defender from City at the time, Jason Denayer.

The Green Brigade coined the song ‘We didn’t sign Denayer, but it doesn’t matter ’cause we signed Boyata’.

Dedryk would have his ups and downs in a Celtic jersey, his time under Ronny Deila not baring fruit, the player was barely seen after Deila’s Celtic went down on penalties to a

Dedyrk has been quoted by the Daily Record: “From 2010 to 2016, when I didn’t play for Belgium, there were some difficult moments for me.

“I was coming through at Manchester City, where the competition was intense. And the decision to go to Celtic, where I played many more matches, really helped me.

“And now I am not saying I should play, because things are always fluid. But since Roberto Martinez started picking me again, he has given me so much confidence.

“Every player has their own way of dealing with matches. But the confidence that the coach has given to me is playing a big part in my performances for Belgium. At 30 now I have matches behind me, and experience of major tournaments. I know how to deal with the pressure.

“My role against Russia was to take care of Dzyuba. We knew Russia would look to him for his power, and I was able to do what was needed to stop him.”

Boyata and the Celtic support were at odds during his last full season. His fallout with Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers and his attempt to push through a move seen the Green Brigade display a banner saying he wasn’t ‘fit’ to wear the jersey. Referring to the defender saying he was injured before a major European qualifier.

Ironically, Dedryk finished the season with Celtic while Brendan Rodgers left his post to head south.

The centre-back moved to Hertha Berlin that summer and has been there since.