McStay Hungary for new challenge

Willie McStay has been confirmed as manager of Hungarian side Ujpest after leaving his role as Celtic reserve coach.

The Hoops agreed to let the former Sligo Rovers manager leave the club in order to take up the position as part of their link-up with the eastern European club.

The agreement will see Celtic loan young players to Ujpest while also involving the club in their programme to recruit talent from eastern Europe.

Former Celtic player McStay, who has coached at Parkhead for 15 years, said: “I intend to keep in touch with developments at Celtic but this is a great move for me at this stage of my career and I am really looking forward to the challenge.”

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell concluded the deal following talks with Ujpest counterpart Joe Borocz in Glasgow.

Lawwell said: “Willie goes with our very best wishes. This is a tremendous opportunity for him to gain invaluable managerial experience and we wish him every success.”

Borocz added: “We are looking forward to welcoming Willie to Budapest. We are confident that he will have a very positive impact on our team and on Hungarian football overall.”