James McCarthy tipped to snub Celtic exit amid ‘surprising’ claim – Glasgow pundit
James McCarthy will be reluctant to leave Celtic this summer despite his Parkhead struggles this term, according to Alan Hutton.
The former Scotland defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 31-year-old’s four-year contract could prohibit a potential exit.
McCarthy has made just six starts for Celtic since joining the Glasgow giants on a free transfer last summer (2021) – with his last league start coming on Boxing Day.
The Athletic reported last year (September 2021) that the former Crystal Palace midfielder had “struggled in training with the pace and intensity of sessions”.
Hutton claimed McCarthy’s “wealth of experience” will be valuable in the Celtic dressing room.
However, he insisted it was “surprising” to see the midfielder handed a four-year contract.
“He signed a decent contract of four years, which I was quite surprised at when he first came in,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“It was probably a dream of his to play with Celtic. In the dressing room, he’ll give a wealth of experience, he’s played in the Premier League and big games.
“That’s always good to have, especially with younger players coming through who can learn off these guys.
“At the moment, at his age, he’s probably on a good contract. Will he want to leave? I’m not so sure.
McCarthy made 272 appearances for Wigan, Everton, and Crystal Palace during his time in England’s top flight.
The midfielder, whose bumper deal expires in 2025, turns 32 in November.
In other news, Celtic tell 2020 signing to find new club.