Paddy McCourt

[third policeman]

Two wonder goals in consecutive games for Celtic. Will Worthington give McCourt a chance? I know he can be an infuriatingly inconsistent performer, but maybe under Mowbray he is learning how to put his undoubted talent to purposeful effect.

[Acornvilla]

if he keeps this up he certianly deserves a chance to prove himself

[third policeman]

I would suggest he has already done more than McGinn or one or two other squad regulars.

[Acornvilla]

well he has done more this week but before that he has contributed naught regardles of his ability

[thischarmingman]

http://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/mccourt-cracker-fails-to-woo-boss-1898108.html

Surprisingly downbeat article in the Independent today about McCourt. I know none of the criticisms leveled at him will come as a surprise to Derry fans, and I know his two goals were against weaker opposition but in fairness, the man's scored two cracking goals this week when he was given his chance. I'm not sure what more he could have done. I do understand that he ma be considered a bit of a luxury player especially in the high stakes top of the table and EL games but I think the article's a little unfair.


Nor is McCourt the answer, despite the fact that in successive games the winger has scored remarkable solo goals which, though they are a delight to watch, are more like flashbacks to the age of black and white viewing than anything from the HDTV era.

But it is no accident that McCourt has rarely featured for Celtic in the 15 months since he arrived.

Lightweight

He was imported at the urging of the club's single biggest shareholder, Dermot Desmond, not because he had done anything to impress Gordon Strachan, who was Celtic manager at the time. Strachan regarded McCourt as a gifted but lightweight addition to his squad.

Mowbray, too, swiftly identified the deficiencies in McCourt's game, such as the failure to appreciate his colleagues' movement into good positions and his shortage of labouring capacity -- a serious drawback in modern football.

As cover for Aiden McGeady, whenever the Republic of Ireland man needs rest or medical treatment, McCourt has a function, especially against lesser opposition. However, watching his goals against Falkirk and St Mirren, one could make a reasonable guess at which point more accomplished -- or more cynical -- opponents would have picked him of

[third policeman]

I agree its a rather negative and unfair assesment and also inaccurate in that McCourt's distribution in the game was excellent. If a European player had scored either of those goals the same journo would probably be drooling. I hope that he gets a game against Rangers and lets see how more cynical opposition deals with him. I'm all for a bit of b&w nostalgia, it used to be called entertainment.

[Gather round]

Two wonder goals in consecutive games for Celtic. Will Worthington give McCourt a chance?

I expect he'll be in the squad for the Czechia game, especially if Brunt is injured. I see him as an impact sub with a free role, say if it was level going into the last half hour.


I would suggest he has already done more than McGinn or one or two other squad regulars

McGinn's done well as a sub in the three games I've seen him play (Hungary, Israel, Slovakia).

McCourt has started one (?) game in the SPL. That compares with the teenagers Worthy has blooded this year (Little, Lawrie, Kee etc.) but hardly with experienced midfielders like Davis, McCann and Clingan.

[Acornvilla]

if alan o brien scored two wonder goals next week he woldnt get straight into the republic set up so why should paddy go straight in regardles of his undoubted ability

[Leeside Swagger]

Good finishing by McCourt for both but the defending:eek: I think there was only one attempt at a tackle accross both goals. Shocking stuff. I would have him in the squad, he's always had the ability but his application was the problem, he seems fitter and stronger now though.

[Leeside Swagger]

McCourt handed N Ireland call-up

Pat McCourt's good form for Celtic has earned him a call-up to the Northern Ireland panel for the final World Cup qualifier away to the Czech Republic.
The former Derry City man has scored in Celtic's last two matches, the second a fine individual effort at St Mirren.
With Burnley striker Martin Paterson ruled out because of injury, Warren Feeney returns after a hip problem.
Rangers front man Kyle Lafferty, who missed the home defeat by Slovakia, is also back in Nigel Worthington's squad.
Although qualification is still mathematically possible, that 2-0 defeat at Windsor Park effectively killed off Northern Ireland's hopes of reaching the 2010 finals in South Africa.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/internationals/8280252.stm

[Steve Bruce]

if alan o brien scored two wonder goals next week he woldnt get straight into the republic set up so why should paddy go straight in regardles of his undoubted ability

The Republic of Ireland on paper have a far stronger squad/pool of players to pick from.

[third policeman]

The Republic of Ireland on paper have a far stronger squad/pool of players to pick from.


And there is a bigger chance of me scoring two wonder goals than Alan O'Brien and I dont even play football (anymore).

[Acornvilla]

i was just making a point that in general someone who onec had a cap for a country will prob not be recalled on the basis of ones weeks form but i think hes a good player and want him to succeed!

[third policeman]

i was just making a point that in general someone who onec had a cap for a country will prob not be recalled on the basis of ones weeks form but i think hes a good player and want him to succeed!


Point taken, and I also hope McCourt succeeds.

[Gather round]

i was just making a point that in general someone who onec had a cap for a country will prob not be recalled on the basis of ones weeks form but i think hes a good player and want him to succeed!

The thing is, he hasn't come from nowhere- by playing for anyone in English D1 or D2, or the SPL (even as a reserve), he's pretty much on the fringe of the squad anyway.

It would be more of a shock if someone in the Irish League, or playing part-time in England, scored a hatful and was called up on that basis.

Incidentally, much as like Colin Coates I can't see why he's still in the squad.

[ArdeeBhoy]

Isn't the SPL higher than all the Eng. divisions exc the EPL?

Well, at least with Celtic, though granted McCourt's a reserve. But seems to have ability in spades.

[Acornvilla]

i would say championship is stronger bar the old firm

[Gather round]

i would say championship is stronger bar the old firm

Just to clarify, by English D1 and D2 as above, I mean the Prem and Championship. I'm old (fashioned) ;)

PS AV, do you really support Chelsea and Leeds?

[Acornvilla]

yea im a wierdo i liked them both when i was a kid. leeds because of the irish players and the fact they were in the cahmpions league and stuff, and at the same time had a soft spot for chelsea because loved watchin zola play and they were quite good aswell

[gspain]

Just to clarify, by English D1 and D2 as above, I mean the Prem and Championship. I'm old (fashioned) ;)

PS AV, do you really support Chelsea and Leeds?

Is it that unusual for fans to support a big club like Chelsea and then have a soft spot for some mickey mouse third division sides like Yeovil and Leeds? :D

[ArdeeBhoy]

Or given his location, even Limerick?

;)

[Acornvilla]

hay leave leeds alone and yeovil are class! :D and im in colage in limerick i might go watch them play act is jackman park hard to get to?

[gspain]

hay leave leeds alone and yeovil are class! :D and im in colage in limerick i might go watch them play act is jackman park hard to get to?

Right beside the train and bus station so no.

[thischarmingman]

Derry Journal:

Czech mate: Paddy looking to impress Worthington in Prague
http://www.derryjournal.com/derry-sport/Czech-mate-Paddy-looking-to.5727854.jp

[Gather round]

Derry Journal:

Czech mate: Paddy looking to impress Worthington in Prague
http://www.derryjournal.com/derry-sport/Czech-mate-Paddy-looking-to.5727854.jp

He didn't get a run out- a predictably knackered Healy lasted an hour, to be replaced by Feeney. McGinn was our main threat. The Czechs were listless for most of the game and their fans stayed away.

[EalingGreen]

Derry Journal:

Czech mate: Paddy looking to impress Worthington in Prague
http://www.derryjournal.com/derry-sport/Czech-mate-Paddy-looking-to.5727854.jp

"Worthington is down on numbers when it comes to attack-minded players with Kyle Lafferty, Martin Paterson, Andrew Little and Jamie Ward all absent, so McCourt is expecting to play a major role in tonight's game"

I'm afraid Paddy didn't get his wish last night - I hope it hasn't hacked him off. Worthy started with a 4-1-4-1 formation, with Baird in the holding midfield position in front of the defence, a midfield of Johnson (right), Davis and McCann (centre) and McGinn (left), and Healy toiling away up front on his own.

As it turned out, Niall was a contender for our MOM last night, in what was a reasonable show from the lads. Johnson also played well on the other side (better defensively, though not so incisive on the attack).

Consequently, I have to say that whilst Paddy has more natural talent than Niall, I suspect Worthy has pencilled in DJ and Niall to feature as his preferred wide players for the Euro2012 campaign.

And tbh, whilst I'd love to see Paddy turning it on for us, I think Worthy has got it right on this, since Niall seems to be one of those rare players who has taken to international football "like a duck to water", even despite not (yet) having made any impact in club football.

I can see why Mowbray persists with McGeady and Maloney as his preferred wingers at Parkhead, but if either should get sold or badly injured etc, I'd personally see Niall as the better long-term prospect for them than Paddy.

In fact, I'm actually quite excited after last night's game, since although it was overall pretty average, I really think Worthy has unearthed a gem in young Niall.

[Gather round]

I suspect Worthy has pencilled in DJ and Niall to feature as his preferred wide players for the Euro2012 campaign

I think this will depend on Johnson's injuries and possibly whether he leaves Birmingham- it's hard to see him getting much of a look in there in future.

And there's always Sleeping Brunty- often plays on the right for Albion.

[EalingGreen]

I think this will depend on Johnson's injuries and possibly whether he leaves Birmingham- it's hard to see him getting much of a look in there in future.

Whilst DJ has had a tough time of it with injuries, which may increase now he's passed 30, he's actually a very athletic player (i.e. when not actually injured). For in our games since the Italy friendly, he has been perpetual motion for the full 90 mins, whether playing right back or right midfield, despite not getting any game time at Birmingham.

And I've heard he's a very good and dedicated trainer, which should stand to him. Of course, it's clear that there's nothing down for him at Birmingham whilst McLeish is there. However, with a new owner having just taken over, McLeish's days may be numbered (esp should they get relegated).

And if McLeish stays, I suspect DJ will have no problem getting a decent Championship club, which should be good enough for NI's purposes. In fact, my only worry would be that he may be on good wages at Brum (he's Club Captain, after all), the club won't pay him off, and he's happy to sit it out? Hope not.



And there's always Sleeping Brunty- often plays on the right for Albion.Tbh, I'd forgotten about him - an easy mistake to make!

Seriously though, I've never been convinced by Brunt, since I feel his obvious innate talent blinds far too many people to his other failings i.e. primarily that he's one lazy fecker!

And I know he's filled in on the right for WBA recently, but if he's going to play for NI, it's got to be because of his left foot. On which point, McCann is arguably a good enough deputy for crosses and set-pieces, whilst McGinn is far quicker if we need pace down the flank.

Imo, if Brunt is going to force his way back into the reckoning for NI, it's imperative that he and Albion have a good season, since if they don't get promoted, it would make it that much easier for NW to overlook him.

[Closed Account]

This'd be great
http://www.clicklancashire.com/sport/blackpool-fc/127219-blackpool-fc-set-to-swoop-for-celtic-fc-winger-.html

Blackpool FC boss Ian Holloway is reportedly poised to Celtic FC midfielder Paddy McCourt his first signing.

The Sun claims the Seasiders boss is lining up a £500,000 bid.

Holloway is busy drawing up his list of targets for next season's Premier League campaign and McCourt, who he tried to sign when taking over at Bloomfield Road last season, still remains an option.

The Seasiders boss will have significant funds to spend in the transfer market this summer as he prepares to plot a way of avoiding immediate relegation from the Premier League.

However, it seems he is determined to be prudent and hopes the £500,000 offer will be enough to secure the 26-year-old.

[Closed Account]

Gotta love the Paddy

The game needed a bit of magic to break the deadlock and Paddy McCourt provided it in some style. A mazy run past a clutch of Inverness defenders tumbling all around ends with a shot arrowed away to Ryan Esson's right-hand corner. What a goal! Can Inverness respond?

[WexCar]

Goal is here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2uwtycB3d0

[Martinho II]

Goal is here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2uwtycB3d0

typical of paddys luck that he got injured straight away after scoring!!

[pineapple stu]

Did he accidentally headbutt his own player? Cool!

[thischarmingman]

"McCourt has done nothing this afternoon but that has lit up this match..."
"Well when he scores there's rarely anyone else involved..."

Awful when our players go abroad and change so much, he's just not the same as he was in Derry...

[hoops1]

Mc Court is a player that sums up the problem with modern day football. Hes a genius but in the long run will probably lose
out to a player that can run 100m in 10 seconds that couldnt trap a bag of cement or pass water.

[Buller]

Mc Court is a player that sums up the problem with modern day football. Hes a genius but in the long run will probably lose
out to a player that can run 100m in 10 seconds that couldnt trap a bag of cement or pass water.

Exactly! He's the only player I've ever seen that reminds me of georgie best! I wonder how Best would cope in todays crazily athletic and defensive orientated style of play. He's amazing to watch!

[Steve Bruce]

You couldn't even compare the two. McCourt, plenty of talent but no where near world class.

George Best, was one of the best players ever.

I hope I never see anyone make such a ludricrus comparison again.

[harry crumb]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6s8QRzXnjA


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jmoqV3k17I


I wouln't dismiss McCourt. There is nobody playing in this part of the world that can do what he does at the moment.

Be lucky you got him before the FAI vultures came a knockin.

[OneRedArmy]

I hope I never see anyone make such a ludricrus comparison again.In the days after George's untimely passing, McCourt, then at Rochdale (irc?) was identified (in the Guardian again, iirc?) along with 4 other up and coming wingers, in a feature article pointing out the dearth of mazy dribblers in the modern game, so unfortunately the comparison, ludricrus (sic) as it may be, is a fairly long standing one.

By reminding someone of someone else, it doesn't automatically mean that someone is saying they are as good as the person they are being compared with.

The fact remains that balance, dribbling and beating a man aren't particularly prized in the game at the minute, and thats why McCourt sticks out.

Why he hasn't got more opportunities for Norn Ireland probably merits 100 times more debate than his relative skill versus Bestie.....

[Gather round]

Why he hasn't got more opportunities for Norn Ireland probably merits 100 times more debate than his relative skill versus Bestie.....

He hasn't had many NI caps largely because he can't get in the Celtic team

2009/10: 3+6 SPL games
2008/09: 0+4

If he manages 10-15 successive games this term I can see him back in the squad.

[OneRedArmy]

He hasn't had many NI caps largely because he can't get in the Celtic team

2009/10: 3+6 SPL games
2008/09: 0+4

If he manages 10-15 successive games this term I can see him back in the squad.1) He had a career before Celtic

2) If you look a recent squads, getting your game regularly in the first team doesn't seem anywhere near a prerequisite

[Gather round]

1) He had a career before Celtic

Aye, in part-time leagues and the English Division 4. Most NI regulars play a couple of divisions higher than that.


2) If you look a recent squads, getting your game regularly in the first team doesn't seem anywhere near a prerequisite

Fair point- I meant to say 'team' rather than 'squad' above.

NI first team during recent qualifiers

G Taylor (Birmingham- Prem reserve- no other keepers playing regularly in top English divisions or equivalent)

D McAuley (Ipswich- C'ship regular)
D Hughes (Fulham- Prem regular)
D Evans (ManU-Prem regular)
D McCartney (Sunderland-Prem regular)

M Baird (Fulham- Prem regular)
M Clingan (Coventry- C'ship regular)
M Davis (Rangers- SPL regular)
M Johnson (Birmingham- Prem reserve)
M McCann (Scunthorpe- C'ship regular)

F Healy (Sunderland youth team?- still living off 35 international goals)

Also played at least three games: D Craigan (Motherwell- SPL regular), M Brunt (West Brom- C'ship regular), M Gillespie (Sheff Utd- C'ship regular), F Paterson (Burnley-C'ship regular), F Lafferty (Rangers- SPL regular), F Feeney (Dundee United- SPL regular)

[mrtndvn]

Aye, in part-time leagues

When did Paddy play in the IL?

[Gather round]

When did Paddy play in the IL?

Ha ha. Not all players in the League of Ireland are full-time, are they? So it's a part-time league. I'm not criticising that, it's just not a high enough standard to displace players from the English Champ and Scottish Prem who have been McCourt's rivals for a place.

[mrtndvn]

Ha ha. Not all players in the League of Ireland are full-time, are they? So it's a part-time league. I'm not criticising that, it's just not a high enough standard to displace players from the English Champ and Scottish Prem who have been McCourt's rivals for a place.

If more players where full time than part time when Paddy was here, wouldn't that make it a full time league?If there are 12 clubs, and only 2 are "part time", how is the league pt?

[Gather round]

If more players where full time than part time when Paddy was here, wouldn't that make it a full time league?If there are 12 clubs, and only 2 are "part time", how is the league pt?

No, it becomes a full-time league when all the players (or at least all the clubs) are full time. In recent years, the English Conference has tried to achieve and maintain this, to distinguish itself from the regional leagues below. The obvious difference between players at the different levels is usually fitness.

As I said, I'm not criticising part-time football, nor even McCourt particularly. If he plays regularly for Celtic this term, he's likely to get into the NI team. If he stays in the stiffs, he won't.

[awec]

He doesn't get a chance for NI because Nigel Worthington is a useless idiot.

No other reason at all, no matter what certain idividuals try to imply.

I don't understand why Worthington won't show more faith, McGinn came on and the games he has played he has been fantastic. No reason why McCourt can't do the same considering he's supposedly the better of the two.

McCourt could probably do with playing in a better league than the SPL though.

[Charlie Darwin]

McGinn is ahead of McCourt in the Parkhead pecking order, is he not?

Somebody brought the point up earlier - McCourt is a unique type of player and he needs to be around players who compliment his style. McGinn, to my mind, is a more direct player and has more to offer the current NI (and Celtic) team.

[Flexy]

Nigel Worthington is an idiot!!!!!!!!! again he over looks McCourt in the N Ireland squad, I look at some of the players in that squad and wonder what he sees in some of the players hes picked. No wonder Northern Ireland has lost players to the Republic with his mindless attitude. Milk Cup 2 yrs ago James McLean played great at the Milk Cup, on that team were Corey Evans Wipeee Cathgart and Josh Mcguines they have all represented Nireland now because McLean is playing in LOI he wont have a look at it him. Is it getting to the stage that he will only call protestant players into his team or at least have a look. Remember he took a few Irish league players away in the summer did he look at the LOI no enough said

[harry crumb]

Paddy doesn't have enough graft to play for NI according to Worthington.