Manchester United: Celtic loan is priority for Tyler Blackett

Blackett has joined Celtic for a season

Tyler Blackett says that his only focus will be on his development as a Celtic player during his loan move from Manchester United.

The defender has two years left on his contract at Old Trafford and has moved to Scotland for the season.

"United is my club, but right now I'm focused on doing a job for Celtic and doing my best," said the 21-year-old.

"To play games every week is something I'm trying to do and hopefully I'll get that here."

Blackett spoke to United manager Louis van Gaal before leaving, but he is not thinking about what the future might hold for him at Old Trafford.

"He said it would be good for me, good experience and to get the games that I couldn't get at United right now," said Blackett.

"It will be good for my development. Competitive football at such a good club like Celtic is a plus."

Blackett's aim is to follow the likes of Jason Denayer and Virgil van Dijk by establishing himself as an impressive defender for Celtic.

Blackett has made 12 first-team appearances for Manchester United

"United is a big worldwide club, it's always difficult for younger players. Hopefully this can be a platform for me here," he said.

"I spoke to the manager and said I wanted to play first-team football so to come to a good club like Celtic is the right step forward.

"I'm just focused on my position here and I just want to do well personally and see what comes."

Blackett is "hopeful" that Van Dijk remains at Celtic, despite the Dutchman being expected to sign for Southampton before the transfer window closes.

The England Under-21 international, who says he is "equally comfortable" at centre-back and left-back, also spoke to his former United team-mate, Saidy Janko, about the left-back's experiences since leaving Old Trafford for Celtic in a permanent move during the summer.

"He's told me the move was good and he's enjoying every moment," added Blackett.

"He says it's good, there's a physical side to it that we don't really get exposed to in under-21 games at United."

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