Celtic midfielder Stuart Armstrong delighted with Hoops' run after frustrating spell

Celtic ace Stuart Armstrong has said the champions’ domination of the PFA award shortlists is the icing on the cake in a season that’s allowed him to turn his game around.

Armstrong, 25, has been one of the shining stars in a memorable campaign for Brendan Rodgers’ treble-chasing side.

Having impressed in recent months, the midfielder has been rewarded with a nomination for the PFA Scottish Premiership Player of the Year.

Armstrong is joined in the running teammates Scott Sinclair and Moussa Dembele, as well as Aberdeen’s Jonny Hayes.

He said: “From Celtic’s perspective, it’s been a terrific season – we have dominated the league and we are in another cup final.”

“Domestically, we have been the best but there have been a lot of good individual performers and it’s good they get recognition as well.”

Armstrong’s form has made him a wanted man, with clubs including Premier League new boys Brighton tipped to make a summer swoop.

After struggling to find his feet at Parkhead following a move from Dundee United, new gaffer Rodgers has played to his strength, which has won him an army of fans.

And he admits the praise is a contrast to the frustrating campaign he endured last year.

“This season has been big for me development-wise, learning and performance-wise. Last season was a frustrating one for me,” Armstrong explained.

“I’ve had the opportunity to play central midfield and managed to stay there. It’s been pleasing for me to play a role in this successful team.”

The attacker, whose Scotland debut against Slovenia earlier this year has been lauded as the “best ever” by some, says turning out for his country is the highlight of a time when almost everything’s went right.

But, for now, he’s focused on his club and helping the champions finish on a high, as they march towards the “Invincibles” tag.

Armstrong said: “It’s worked well for me not thinking too far ahead, focusing on each training session and game, and keeping things very simple.

“Our team have not focused on statistics and what certain results mean but only about now and just playing football.”

Celtic also lead the way on the shortlist for Young Player of the Year, with Dembele, Kieran Tierney and Hibs starlet Jason Cummings battling it out with Hibs’ Jason Cummings.