Former Celtic hero Paddy McCourt has admitted that he wants to return to the club in some capacity in the future.
The Northern Irishman was a part of the Hoops squad between 2008 and 2013 as he racked up 88 appearances and 19 direct goal contributions (Transfermarkt).
Injury problems have always been a problem for McCourt however, and he retired back in 2018. Since then, he’s been working as a technical director for Derry City – the club Celtic initially signed him from.
And McCourt, speaking to One Football, has admitted that he’s motivated by the prospect of working for the Hoops again in the future as he touched on why he signed for Celtic in the first place.
“Some day in the future I’d love to be back in some capacity and that’s why I’m working hard now to try and make it a success here.
“I love what I’m doing at the moment because I’m working with great people who allow me to grow and make decisions but you never know what’s down the line in football.
“The Celtic interest came really, really late but when it did my head was turned massively (back in 2008). It was the club I supported as a boy. I was afraid to pass that up in case it never came back around.”
A mixed to start to life with Derry City
Since becoming technical director with Derry, it’s fair to say that McCourt’s time with the club has been mixed so far.
They managed to finish fourth in his first season with the club, earning them a spot in Europa League qualifying for the 2020 season. However, they now sit seventh and just three points above the relegation zone.
Yet that doesn’t tell the whole story. They’re only seven points behind another European spot, which this season in Ireland ends at third place. If they manage it, Derry would go into the new Europa Conference League first qualifying round.
Even so, it’s fair to say that a return to Parkhead for McCourt further down the line would be more than welcomed by many in the support who have such a strong affection for the Northern Irishman.
It’s difficult to know what that role would be however. Celtic already have a committed Head of Football operations in Nicky Hammond, whilst McCourt’s work with Derry suggests he’s turned away from the prospect of being a first-team coach.
Then again, Neil Lennon worked with McCourt for most of his time in Scotland. There’s a relationship there that could very easily see something develop in the future.
But for now, McCourt’s main focus will be on turning Derry’s fortunes around this season.
In other news, Celtic are reportedly set for a big training ground boost today
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