Crystal Palace midfielder James McCarthy has confessed his love for Celtic and revealed he'd love to play in an Old Firm clash before he retires.

The former Wigan star grew up a Hoops fan and, despite leaving Scotland for down south, he still harbours ambitions to play in the big game.

Having played three years for Hamilton Accies before departing for the bright lights of the Premier League, McCarthy has played against both Celtic and Rangers a number of times.

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But to be involved in a game between the two - rivalry, atmosphere and all - would be something he's dreamed of since he was a youngster.

"I’ve always been a Celtic fan; all my family are Celtic fans," he told Crystal Palace's match programme.

"From when I was born, I’ve had the Celtic strips. 

"Obviously as a kid, you’re always watching.

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"We’d go and watch the games. My brothers used to take me. 

"I went to quite a lot of them [Old Firm Derbies]. I was younger, maybe eight or nine.

"I’d always be at the game. It’s an amazing atmosphere, an incredible atmosphere and one that you really enjoy. 

"You always find you want to play in something like that."