West Brom pull out of battle for McCourt as Celtic target Derry winger

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Celtic bound? The Scottish champions are interested in Pat McCourt after West Brom pulled the plug on any deal.

He is expected to arrive in Glasgow to hold talks with the Scottish champions over the next couple of days and West Brom have now pulled the plug on any deal.

A statement from West Brom read: 'Albion can confirm they have ended their interest in Derry City winger Patrick McCourt.

'The Baggies last week agreed a fee with the Eircom League club for the former Rochdale man, who arrived in the Black Country for talks yesterday.'

Mowbray explained: 'While we are trying to get the first team right for the Premier League, we are also looking to bring in players to strengthen the underbelly of the club.

'It's a process we started last season and Pat was one of a few players we are looking to bring in - but on our terms.

'However, during the club's discussions with Pat, it became clear he has other options where he feels he may have a greater opportunity to play first team football and we wish him all the best.'

Celtic are still in the hunt for big-name signings to bolster their chances of winning a fourth consecutive league title and are also keen to secure the services of McCourt.

The club will hold talks with the player, regarded as one of the most exciting talents in the Eircom League, over the next couple of days.

He attracted interest from top English clubs as a youngster with Rochdale and was linked with a move to Manchester City in the 2002-03 season.

McCourt made his Northern Ireland international debut against Spain in June 2002 before a combination of injury and loss of form saw him part company with Rochdale in February 2005.

A trial with Motherwell followed but a two-week spell at Fir Park failed to yield a move and he signed for Shamrock Rovers before financial problems saw him sold to hometown club Derry City.