McCourt vows to put injuries behind him for Bhoys

Celtic new boy Paddy McCourt has vowed to put aside his injury frustrations and battle for a place in Gordon Strachan’s squad.

The Irishman, signed this summer from Derry City on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee, missed much of pre-season training after pulling a hamstring.

McCourt made his debut as a second-half substitute in the 1-1 draw against Manchester City at Parkhead on Wednesday night, the last friendly before Sunday’s Clydesdale Bank Premier League curtain-raiser against St Mirren at Parkhead.

Most of the fall-out from the game centred on the performances of Hoops youngsters Paul McGowan, Paul Caddis and Mark Millar in what was a weakened Celtic side, but McCourt is determined not to be left on the sidelines.

He said: “The injury occurred on the the fourth or fifth day of training and it must have lasted 14 or 15 days. It was very frustrating but I’m not getting too down about it, these things happen.

“I have been working with the physios every day so I’ve been able to get a good bit of running done. I’ve been able to join in the last four or five days and it’s nice to get a touch of the ball again.

“To be honest, even when I came in, I was a bit behind the lads who are a very fit bunch. So I knew I was going to take me five or six weeks to get where I want to be.

“It is going to be difficult to get in to the squad but it’s something I believe I can do.

“When I get myself up to full speed I’m sure when I show him what I can do, I’m sure the manager will be impressed.

“I can’t put a time limit on it. But I’m working every day and I will know myself when I’m ready.”

McCourt missed a great chance to become an instant hero with the fans minutes after coming on against City but that disappointment could not dampen the enthusiasm of the Irishman on his debut.

He said: “It was a massive thrill and I really enjoyed it.

“I was told at half-time by coach Garry Pendrey that I was coming on at the hour mark so I was just watching the clock.

“It was nearly a dream debut with a volley at the back post but I was caught in two minds.

“I didn’t know whether to head it or volley it and by the time I made my mind up the chance was gone.

“It would have been great to score, that would have been a dream start but just to get on at Celtic Park was brilliant

“It was something I’ve always dreamed of and I’m looking forward to doing it in a competitive game.”