The central defender has started five games in a row for the champions amid an injury to Cameron Carter-Vickers and unavailability of Auston Trusty.

That run has included big Premiership wins over Hearts and Hibs as Celtic have increased their lead at the top of the table.

O'Neill has been suitably impressed with the 23-year-old and his displays. The 74-year-old insists Murray has potential to go far in the game, and that could include international recognition.

“He's missed essentially two years with injury. He's got all the potential in the world to be a really fine centre back," he said.

“You have to realise that potential, and eventually, for what he does in his career, will be entirely up to him. He has potential, and he's missed the two years.

"And I'm delighted for him, because he's a splendid character. As for Scotland? Why not, why not?”

Carter-Vickers made his return from the bench yesterday and will start to challenge for his position again, but O'Neill has been satisfied with Murray.

He added: “I think big Dane has done really fine, we’re just trying to get Cameron and Alistair just back into the fold again. Hopefully, if Cameron's okay, which he didn't complain about it, that'll be good news for us if he's come through that.

“Of course, we need every single body back. He seems to have come through the game okay. I’m delighted that the big players are back.”