Dundee United criticise Celtic over Gary Mackay-Steven transfer

Dundee United manager Jackie McNamara has criticised Celtic counterpart Ronnie Deila for discussing Gary Mackay-Steven's transfer with the media.

The Scotland international has signed a pre-contract agreement with the Hoops for next term, but the Norwegian recently expressed his desire to bring him to Parkhead earlier, prompting an angry reaction from McNamara.

"I've never spoken to Ronnie and, as far as I'm concerned, I won't either and that's the way it'll remain," McNamara told BBC Sport.

"I think Ronnie has a way of doing things. He's been asked a question by the press. Obviously they've put him in a position about his interest in Gary Mackay-Steven and signing a pre-contract, which is fine, he can do that.

"But in terms of taking him now, that's not within his remit to sign him just now. He's our player unless we decide otherwise."

Mackay-Steven has made almost 130 appearances for the Terrors and scored 27 goals so far.