Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that James McCarthy’s days at Celtic are numbered and won’t be a part of his senior squad moving forward.
McCarthy joined the club in 2021 but has failed to really cement a place in the Bhoys team, making just six starts from 27 appearances in total.
Rodgers spoke about the Republic of Ireland international earlier in the summer and suggested his role was still being assessed. Now, his agent has been tasked with finding him a new opportunity.
Rodgers said this weekend [The Glasgow Times]: “I feel real shame for James, because growing up he was obviously a Celtic supporter. I saw him a lot down in the Premier League and he was a fantastic talent there both with Wigan and Everton.
“Sadly for James, a few injuries and a few niggles have curtailed his time here, so he will be looking to move on. But he’s a great guy. He trained really well with the group when I first came in here and I’ve had a couple of really good conversations with him, but he’ll be looking to move on.
“I think there has been interest, and I know that his agent has been talking to the club to see if we can find a compromise for him.”
That compromise may have to be significant considering that McCarthy is contracted to the club until 2025.
A four-year deal for the injury-prone midfielder always raised eyebrows. It has proven to be a transfer that just hasn’t worked out for anyone involved.
McCarthy isn’t the only player on the books who needs to be moved on swiftly with Ismaila Soro and Albian Ajeti also picking up a first-team salary without being a part of Rodgers’ squad. Hopefully we seem confirmation of these exits over the next two weeks.
In other news, New name enters Celtic transfer mix; Bhoys consider summer move for striker.
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