Scott Brown defends the SPL, while Darren O'Dea leaves Celtic for Ipswich loan

Scott Brown insists Craig Bellamy's decision to join Cardiff ahead of Celtic does not reflect badly on the Glasgow club or Scottish football.

Celtic had hoped to lure the Manchester City forward back to Parkhead on loan this season, but he has opted for the npower Championship club instead.

Bellamy's family remain in Wales and Brown believes that was the major reason behind his decision to return to his homeland.

He said: "I think it was more personal reasons for him not coming to Celtic. He just wants to go home and play in Wales."

Brown does not believe concerns over the standard of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League were a factor in Bellamy rejecting the opportunity to return north of the border. "I don't think so," added the Scotland midfielder. "If you come to Parkhead and Ibrox and you see the fans and the games that we play, the games are decent to watch. We saw that with Hibs and Motherwell last year as well, in the game that finished 6-6.

"It's interesting to watch and, if folk don't want to come here, that's not our problem. With Craig, it was for personal reasons."

Despite the Celtic skipper's staunch defence of the SPL, his former team-mate Aiden McGeady revealed today that one of the reasons he agreed a reported 9.5 million move to Spartak Moscow was because he feared his talent would be stifled in the Scottish top flight.

Responding to those comments, Brown said: "I'm quite happy where I am. Everyone has their own opinion. Aiden has gone and we all wish him all the best.

"He's a great player and when people offer that amount of money for you and the club accept it, you can't exactly turn it down.

"He's a strong character as well and he's got everything that any team needs."

Meanwhile, Ipswich Town have confirmed the loan signing of Celtic defender Darren O'Dea.

The Republic of Ireland international, who spent three months on loan at Reading last season, will stay at Portman Road until 17 January.

The 23-year-old has made more than 50 appearances for Celtic and signed a three-year contract last season, but manager Neil Lennon was unable to assure him of a first-team place.