Celtic is delighted to confirm that it has entered into a new co-operation agreement with Ayr United FC, which will allow increased playing opportunities for a number of promising young Celtic players who are coming through the ranks at Celtic.

The Cooperation System was voted through by clubs in Scotland recently.

The new system aims to provide greater flexibility to the previous domestic loan system by enabling players in the key ‘transition phase’ of 16-21, who are eligible to represent the Scotland national teams, to join a lower-league club but be able to move between the parent and cooperation club throughout the season to increase playing time.

Jude Bonnar and Kyle Ure have moved to Ayr, joining forces with Ayr United Manager and Celtic Legend Scott Brown, and we will aim to create other opportunities for our young players going forward in association with the Somerset Park club.

Celtic believes this approach can be hugely important in the development of young players, particularly in assisting young players in the transition into first teams from academies.

Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers said: “We think this new arrangement with Ayr United will prove to be very useful to both clubs and of course to the young players who we are looking to support and develop.

"A number of clubs are using these new agreements and I think they have the potential to produce really positive results.

"I know Scott and his staff will provide our young players with a fantastic environment over the next period and this will be crucial in their development and their transition to our first team.”

Celtic and Ayr United announce co-operation agreement