Schmeichel, who recently signed for Celtic on a one-year deal, had previously trained and played with O’Riley with the Danish international squad but revealed he got a far greater understanding of his team-mate’s talents during Celtic’s trip to the United States. And the goalkeeper remains hopeful that O’Riley will elect to turn down more lucrative offers to stay in Glasgow.

He said: “I’m trying everything to make him stay, trust me! But he’s not given anything away yet. He’s a top quality player. It’s always difficult with national teams as you meet, have [the day before the game], game day, recovery and then you go again. It’s not a lot of time you get to see people. But having seen him every day here….what a player.

“You’d need to ask him [about taking his time to make a decision]. But from what I know of Matt, he’s a very level-headed guy with great parents behind him helping him with whatever decisions. What I do know is that he loves playing here and he has loved his time here. And whether it’s now [that he leaves] – or hopefully later – then no matter what, Celtic means a great deal to him. For me, I hope he stays. And I’m doing everything I can to convince him.”

Schmeichel admits the prospect of playing Champions League football was a draw for him signing for Celtic and hopes it may also help shape O’Riley’s decision. “There aren’t many better arenas to show what you can do than the Champions League. And he’s already done that. I just hope he’s there again in a Celtic top for me to experience as well.”

O’Riley didn’t make the Denmark squad for the European Championships but Schmeichel remains a fan regardless. You’d have to ask the manager [why he wasn’t selected]. He’s the one that picks the squad. But everyone who has seen Matt knows his quality.”