Celtic scored four goals in a convincing victory against Hearts at Celtic Park this afternoon.

Two goals from striker Gary Hooper helped Neil Lennon's side remain nine points clear at the top of the Scottish Premier League.

© PA Photos

Hooper, who was subject to a £5m bid from Norwich City in the week, got Celtic off to a dream start when he fired in to the bottom-left corner of the goal from close range after two minutes.

Greek striker Georgios Samaras then doubled the lead just eight minutes later, finding the back of the net with Kris Commons providing the assist.

The Hoops continued to press but Hearts held out to keep the score at 2-0 at half time.

The Jangos grew into the game in the second half and they got their reward when Jason Holt's deflected shot found a way past second-choice goalkeeper Lukasz Zaluska.

However Celtic's nerves were settled when Scott Brown beat a defender and poked the ball to Hooper, who tapped the ball home to score his eighth goal in four games against the Edinburgh club.

Lassad Nouioui added a finish to a cross from Emilio Izaguirre in injury time to put the gloss on the victory.