SAINTS loanee Mohamed Elyounoussi played 70 minutes as Celtic got their Scottish Premiership title defence off to a flying start with a 5-1 victory over Hamilton.

Odsonne Edouard grabbed a hat-trick for Neil Lennon’s side as Celtic began the quest for an unprecedented 10th successive Premiership crown.

Jeremie Frimpong and Patryk Klimala also netted for the Glasgow outfit.

Commenting on his side’s display, boss Lennon said: “It is a brilliant start.

“I am more pleased with the second half, in the first half we were a bit passive and lacked intensity in our play with the ball.

“We got a powerful response in the second half. To score five goals after a lengthy lay off it speaks volumes for the players’ mentality and their quality and will to win. I am thrilled with that.”

Elyounoussi penned a fresh season-long loan deal at Celtic back in June, after helping the Hoops seal the league title and Scottish League Cup last season.

The Norway international has scored seven goals in 21 games during his time north of the border – and also registered six assists.

Elyounoussi arrived at Saints for £16million in 2018 and has played 19 times for the club in all competitions.