Celtic agree second lower-league partnership as academy trio head to East Kilbride

Celtic have entered into a Co-operation Agreement with League One side East Kilbride, with three Hoops academy youngsters linking up with the newly-promoted club.

Mick Kennedy’s side secured promotion into the third tier of Scottish football and will now provide another pathway for Celtic youngsters to gain valuable senior experience.

Forward Rhys Dargie, whose loan move was confirmed last month, has been joined at East Kilbride by goalkeeper Marcus Gill and highly-rated midfielder Liam Kennedy.

Kennedy was named among Martin O’Neill’s substitutes for Celtic’s victory over Falkirk last weekend, underlining the regard in which the youngster is held at Parkhead.

Confirming the agreement on X, East Kilbride said: “East Kilbride Football Club can today confirm a Co-operation Agreement with Scottish Premiership side, Celtic.

“As part of this agreement, the previously announced, Rhys Dargie, alongside goalkeeper, Marcus Gill & midfielder, Liam Kennedy have joined the club.”

The partnership is Celtic’s second Co-operation Agreement with a lower-league Scottish club this season.

League Two side Dumbarton announced a similar arrangement with the Scottish champions last month, which saw Celtic youngsters Owen Hartington and Aidan Rice make the move to the Rock.