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Forgotten Celtic misfit spotted making shock B team appearance while Champs League hero Mitchel Frame drops down

Celtic's B team are taking on the league leaders in Airdrie and there's been a couple of surprises in the team lines

JAMES McCARTHY finally came out of cold storage when he was handed a surprise appearance for Celtic's B team against Lowland League leaders East Kilbride.

The veteran Republic of Ireland midfielder's whereabouts has been a source of mystery for the club's fans.

James McCarthy in action for Celtic
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James McCarthy in action for CelticCredit: Kenny Ramsay
Mitchel Frame drops back to earth with a bump
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Mitchel Frame drops back to earth with a bumpCredit: Getty
James McCarthy of Celtic FC gestures during the Champions League clash
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James McCarthy of Celtic FC gestures during the Champions League clashCredit: Getty

He hasn't played any match since featuring in a 4-0 win over Motherwell back in October 2022, back when Ange Postecoglou was manager.

Brendan Rodgers said back in the summer that the the midfielder would be LEAVING the club.

But nothing was ever finalised and now McCarthy has pulled on the Hoops shirt again, albeit in B team action.

And he finds a place alongside the midweek Champions League hero Mitchel Frame who drops back in at B team level.

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Various rules are in place to govern eligibility in the Lowland League but a little-known rule makes him eligible.

It's thought clubs may have one player or coach aged 33 or older who cannot play in the clubs first team.

And McCarthy turned 33 only last month.

Squad lists in general have to be submitted in advance of the season, with any adjustments during designated windows.

If a player such as Mitchel Frame plays five times for the first team he then drops out of B team availability until the next window opens.

Players must be born in 2002 or later, with one additional Under-21 outfield player and goalkeeper capable of being added to the squad.

It appears likely that the midfielder will be getting game time ahead of the

Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page 

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