Liam Kennedy has long been tipped as one of the next Celtic academy players capable of making the jump into the first team.
Kennedy has already been involved around Martin O’Neill’s first-team squad and was named on the bench for Celtic’s 2-1 win over Falkirk in August.
East Kilbride boss Mick Kennedy believes the teenager has the potential to go much further.
Speaking to Lanarkshire Live Sport, he said: “Liam is probably the next real rising star at Celtic. He is one I imagine will definitely be earmarked for the first team at some point.
“He is an outstanding talent at only 17 so I am delighted to have him on board.”
O’Neill has also spoken positively about the midfielder, previously describing him as a “really good footballer.”
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.#WelcomeToEK pic.twitter.com/kLqQi5yMiX
— East Kilbride FC (@officialEKFC) September 3, 2026
His spell with East Kilbride now offers another test as Celtic look to give him experience against senior opposition.
Mick Kennedy believes the youngster is already capable of handling that level.
“He is more than capable of playing in League One comfortably, he is a top, top player.
“He is such a talented kid and we are very fortunate that we have got him, to be honest, so we are very grateful to Celtic trusting us with his development.
“Even within Celtic I believe he is the next one earmarked to come through their system.”
Kennedy did not feature against Hamilton last weekend after only joining up with the East Kilbride squad shortly beforehand.
That should change quickly, with Mick Kennedy confirming he expects the Celtic youngster to get on the pitch against Peterhead.
For Liam Kennedy, the move provides the chance to add regular senior minutes to a season in which he has already moved closer to Celtic’s first-team picture.
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