My brother was one of Celtic’s most naturally gifted stars, now I’m helping find best Irish talent like Evan Ferguson

HIS brother was a Celtic cult hero regarded as one of the most naturally gifted players ever to wear a Hoops jersey.

And now Leroy McCourt is helping take some more of the most talented Irish youngsters over to the big time.

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McCourt’s brother Paddy was christened the Derry Pele for his skilful style of play.

He made more than 60 top team appearances over a five-year period at Parkhead.

There were some incredible moments for the highlight reel – even if he struggled at times to secure a regular first team berth.

But his older brother Leroy is also making a significant contribution to football these days – with Even Ferguson one of a number of young talents he helped scout for high-flying Premier League side Brighton.

Striker Ferguson is a huge talent who has been scoring goals for fun in the Premier League – where he’s drawn comparisons with Alan Shearer.

While he rarely gives interviews, he’s been scouting for the Premier League side since 2016 and his speciality is Ireland – having helped them find Evan Ferguson and Warren O’Hora.

O’Hora is now a regular first-team player at MK Dons.

After “helping to coach and develop Paddy throughout his career”, Leroy also worked with former Hoops star Shane Duffy and two former Parkhead kids in the form of Colin McCabe and Gareth McDonagh.

McCourt was named checked earlier this year by Ian Buckman, Brighton’s head of academy.

He said: “A lot of credit would have to go to John Morling, our previous academy manager.

“John previously worked with the FAI and had good knowledge of the quality and talent over there.

“Leroy McCourt does a lot of great work for us and keeps an eye on the players.”

With his coaching badges, and agents badge, he now scouts across Europe, writing in his LinkedIn profile: “I’ve spent time with Villareal FC learning their unique culture, philosophy and style.

“I’ve made excellent contacts in Spain and helping to move players of top standard between Spain, Europe and in and out of Ireland and Britain.

“I now work full-time in my scouting role for Brighton & HA FC , mainly scouting all age groups throughout all Ireland and on occasions in Europe.

“Ireland has plenty of talented players at various stages and ages.

“Within Brighton it is certainly a team effort.

“Such a wonderful club with brilliant staff.

“I also scout for players all over Europe and this season alone have made trips to Poland, Cyprus, Spain, Portugal and just recently Lithuania.

“Brighton & HA FC will always leave no stone unturned to find the best players for this fantastic club and long may it continue.”

Earlier this year, Paddy McCourt was found guilty of sexual assault charge after being charged with intentionally touching a woman in a sexual manner without her consent in a nightclub.

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