McAvennie laments ‘last thing we need’ at Celtic after McCarthy injury latest
Frank McAvennie has urged Ange Postecoglou to avoid taking any risks with James McCarthy’s fitness as he nears a Celtic return.
The former Hoops hitman, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insists the club need McCarthy’s experience in the midfield.
On Saturday (30 October) Postecoglou told the Daily Record that McCarthy, 30, is “back fit now and he’s available”.
The midfielder featured on the bench in Celtic’s 0-0 draw with Livingston on Saturday but did not come on.
The summer signing hasn’t played for the Hoops since 3 October and has only made eight appearances for the club.
McAvennie has been impressed with McCarthy’s performances this season but doesn’t want to rush him back.
“We need McCarthy back,” McAvennie told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“He looked very good when he’s played but I don’t think we have seen the best of him.
“Obviously he’s had the injury troubles and hopefully he’s back soon.
“We need bodies more than anything else but obviously it helps when you have a talented player there.
“He’s that cool head in the midfield, though we have been doing well without him.
“Just don’t rush him back is my message to Ange, imagine if he gets another injury when he comes back.
“That’s the last thing we need.”
Celtic are next in action against Ferencvaros on Thursday evening.
McCarthy has featured in the Europa League for the Hoops this season but both of his appearances came off the bench.
In other news, McAvennie claims Celtic have signed the “new Charlie Nicholas” after what he’s seen.