THERE was yet another proud moment for Greenock-born footballer Luke McCowan as he made his Champions League debut to help Celtic pick up a vital point away in Italy against Atalanta.

Former Notre Dame High School pupil McCowan has been living a dream that he shares with many others throughout the west of Scotland after sealing a dramatic transfer deadline day switch to join Brendan Rodgers' Hoops side back in August.

And the pinch-me moments have kept on coming for the 26-year-old from Greenock, who's made his debut for the side he grew up supporting as well as netting his maiden goal at Celtic Park.

 

But earlier this week, he stepped onto the grandest stage that club football has to offer - after he was given the nod to step up off the bench and make his Champions League debut for Celtic against reigning Europa League champions Atalanta in Bergamo.

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McCowan replaced Parkhead record signing and Belgian international Arne Engels in the 74th minute of the Champions League clash.

He did his part to help Celtic pick up their fourth point of their European campaign, with three games played, and it leaves them on the brink of qualification for the competition's knockout stages.

McCowan kicked off his career at successful Inverclyde youth side, East End United, in the shadows of Cappielow.

Despite this he never played for Morton, instead making his way through the ranks at Scottish Championship side Ayr United.

The midfielder made his professional debut at the age of 19 after juggling being a lifeguard in Greenock's Waterfront Leisure Complex with training as a footballer.

His impressive performances at Ayr United earned him a move to Dundee where he made over 100 appearances for the Dark Blues before joining Celtic for a reported even-figure fee in the summer.