Martin O'Neill has praised Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard, comparing him to Celtic Park legend Henrik Larsson.
O'Neill, who won three titles with Celtic, believes the French striker is vital to Neil Lennon's side.
Edouard has been linked with the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United, and O'Neill understands Lennon's determination to keep hold of him.
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Speaking on BBC Sportsound's Scottish Football Podcast, O'Neill said "Of course, yes" when asked if Edouard was as important to Lennon as Larsson was to him.
He added: "In my five years there we didn't have Henrik for the final year and you're always trying to make do.
"It's very important to hold on to your best players, because these are the ones that will win matches for you. They will turn the tide for you if games are even or if you're losing with 20 minutes to go.
"You know when the likes of Larsson is still on the field you still have a chance of winning that game. And that is exactly now the situation Neil finds himself in (with Edouard)."
Celtic returned to training last Thursday as they prepare for the new season, which is scheduled to begin on August 1.
