James Forrest was delighted to help Celtic to a Scottish Cup win over Falkirk last night (Saturday) and the Hoops winger said he was determined to build on his impressive performance from now until the end of the season.

Forrest marked his first start in almost seven months with a goal against Falkirk in the Scottish Cup as Celtic swept aside the League One leaders 3-0 at Paradise to move into the fourth round.

Celtic dominated throughout the entire 90 minutes but it took until the 56th minute before John Kennedy’s side were able to translate their superiority into a goal. That came from Forrest who cut inside from the left and found the back of the net with a right-footed shot.

Speaking to the media after the game Forrest said Celtic’s second-half performance was better and admitted he could have scored more goals himself.

“The boys started off really well,” he said. “We had a few chances but just didn’t create that goal. At half time the manager made sure we weren’t going to just sit back. He made sure we started on the front foot in the second half and you could see right at the end we could have scored another three or four goals.

“I missed a few chances that were easier than the one I scored. Sometimes that happens but I was delighted to get in about chances.

'Being back in amongst it with the boys was amazing and to be playing again was a great feeling so hopefully, I can keep continuing that.'

John Kennedy had brought Forrest on as a substitution in Celtic’s previous two games and the 29-year-old made good use of the recent international break to build his fitness up to the point where was ready to start games.

Forrest was excited to be back playing again and the midfielder said he was now aiming to get as much time on the pitch as possible before the end of the season.

“On a personal level I’m absolutely delighted,” he said. “It’s been a long few months. I’ve come back in over the last couple of weeks and come on as a sub but starting is unbelievable. It was such a good feeling and I’ve missed it. We’re into the next round now after a few goals and I think we could have scored a few more. All around I’m absolutely delighted.

“I’ve been out for so long but it’s been great back training over the last few weeks. I’ve got myself back in playing games with Celtic and that’s what you need to do. Everyone who is Scottish is wanting to have a good end to the season. For me it’s about building up fitness and getting as many minutes and games as I can. I’m loving being back playing again.”

Forrest hungry for more playing time after marking impressive return