Mika Baur earns Scott Brown approval after being thrown into Celtic deep end

Mika Baur was thrown straight into the deep end at Celtic against LASK — and his first start for the club earned the approval of Scott Brown.

The German midfielder was named in Martin O’Neill’s starting XI for Wednesday night’s Champions League play-off, just days after completing his move to the Hoops.

Baur had already made his Celtic debut from the bench against Dundee United, but facing the Austrian champions offered supporters a much better opportunity to see what the 22-year-old can bring to O’Neill’s midfield.

His inclusion came despite O’Neill admitting beforehand that Baur was not yet “absolutely” fit following his arrival.

That did not stop the midfielder from catching Brown’s eye during Celtic’s impressive 3-0 victory.

Assessing Baur’s performance on BBC Sportsound, the former Celtic captain highlighted his ability to look forward in possession, while also praising his work without the ball.

Brown said: “Mika Baur has done enough for me so far, but I still want to see him on the ball more.

“He has a fantastic eye for a forward pass.

“His work rate and understanding have been fantastic, and in his first full start for the club it has been very, very positive.”

Baur’s willingness to play progressively was one of the standout qualities identified before his move to Celtic was completed.