Michael McGovern has sung the praises of Celtic target Pierce Charles.
McGovern, who spent seven years on the books as a Celtic player and now works as a goalkeeping coach at Lennoxtown and Barrowfield, has been discussing his fellow countryman.
As an ex-Northern Ireland goalkeeper with 16 clean sheets in 33 caps, McGovern is well-positioned to analyse Charles, reportedly a target for Celtic.
The Parkhead coach thinks that the 20-year-old can be a “real star”.
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Michael McGovern on Celtic target Shea Charles: ‘He can be a real star’
McGovern told the Belfast Telegraph on Charles: “I think from Pierce’s point of view, you just have to keep playing football and developing.
“I have watched him a good bit and I see so much potential in him.
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“He can be a real star and you can see that despite his young age. I’m sure there is interest in him.
“He has so many talents, including being exceptional with the ball at his feet.
He is one of the best I have seen at that, but he is also very good at defending the goal and makes big saves in big moments. It’s not just his distribution that impresses people.”
On his role working between the B team and senior squad at Celtic, McGovern told the Fermanagh Herald: “I’ve really enjoyed it.
“I came in in January, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. It’s great being back at the football club, and I enjoy the role.”
“Working with the manager was something I was really looking forward to before I came in, and it hasn’t disappointed.”
“I’ve learned a lot from Martin, and all the coaching staff have been brilliant. Celtic is a massive club, and for myself as a coach, I want to be working at the highest level possible.
“Celtic are the champions again, we’re the best club in Scotland.”
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Who is Celtic target Pierce Charles?
Born in Manchester, Charles already has ten caps for the Northern Irish national team, establishing himself as first-choice goalkeeper as a teenager.
He was handed his senior debut for Sheffield Wednesday by Rangers boss Danny Rohl. If he is keen to reunite with the German, Celtic could be on the back foot in the race.
He is the brother of midfielder Shea Charles, with whom Celtic have been linked in the past. The pair played together in the academy at Manchester City.
Small for a goalkeeper at 6 ft 1 in, Charles has earned plaudits for his ability on the ball. He claimed an excellent assist against Hull City in December.
In total, he has 44 senior appearances, all at either Championship or international level. This is rare for a goalkeeper, for whom first-team opportunities tend to be rare.
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