After turning out for Celtic’s Under-17s at Barrowfield, James McCarthy swapped Paradise for Hamilton’s New Douglas Park in the mid-2000s. Moves to Wigan, Everton and Crystal Palace south of the border followed in the intervening years, before the 30-year-old midfielder completed a ‘dream move’ back to Glasgow’s East End this week.

While Ange Postecoglou and his squad were preparing for their UEFA Europa League third qualifying round first leg against FK Jablonec in the Czech Republic, the Republic of Ireland internationalist has spent the last few days training hard at Lennoxtown and now can’t wait to meet up with his new team-mates.

Speaking to the official Celtic website, the lifelong Hoops fan said: “It’s a dream come true. Growing up, I was massive Celtic fan and have been since. Throughout the family, it’s a massive thing for each and every one us and I can’t wait to get started now. It’s something you dream of as a kid.

“There has been a lot of speculation throughout the years, but when I knew it was happening this time it was a no-brainer.

‘As soon as I heard about the interest, I wanted to make it happen as soon as possible.’

“Lennoxtown is an amazing training ground. I’ve been to Celtic Park many times as a supporter, but walking into the Training Centre, being able to put the training kit on, meeting a few of the lads, that’s fantastic.

“Obviously, most of the team were away for the European game, but being at Lennoxtown has been amazing. Again, I just can’t wait to get started.”

McCarthy said texts from the manager and club captain Callum McGregor have made him feel welcome, as have all the staff at the club’s training centre. And with the news that Paradise is on the cusp of welcoming fans back to a full-capacity stadium, McCarthy can’t wait to hit the ground running.

He added: “I want to make sure I give everything. I know what it means myself, and growing up supporting Celtic, watching Celtic, I know what I means to the fans.

‘The main thing I want to do is do well – for the club, my teammates and the fans.’

“I want to make sure we win games. I know the pressure that comes with that, and we need to make sure we win, week in, week out.

“I played for Hamilton at Celtic Park a couple of times, but to have the chance to do so in the home dressing room, and to have the backing of a full house, the thought alone is unbelievable and I can’t wait to experience it.”

James McCarthy can’t wait to get started after dream Celtic move