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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Mark Walker

Arne Engels set for unexpected quickfire return to Celtic amid Belgium issue

Celtic record transfer Arne Engels has been sent home from the Belgium camp ahead of their showdown against France after a little-known UEFA rule.

The £11 million midfielder capped a brilliant week after securing his move to the Hoops and then coming on as a sub for his debuts for both Celtic in their Old Firm win and his country in their Nations League win against Israel.

But his hopes of winning a second cap immediately and even possibly starting his first game for his country are over.

Engels picked up three bookings while playing for Belgium Under 21s in their qualifying group - where they are battling it out with Scotland to finish second - which would usually mean a one-match suspension.

However, UEFA rules state the suspension is waived if the player is called up for the national team as long as their Under 21s team does not have a game either the day before or after the senior match.

That meant he was cleared to play last week because Belgium Under 21s weren't playing until Tuesday.

But he's unable to play against France tonight because it's within a day of the Under 21s.

A Belgian FA statement said: "Arne Engels is suspended for Monday's game and left the squad this afternoon. See you soon, Arne!"


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Meanwhile, Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney was presented with a Celtic shirt ahead of a legends match on Saturday.

The former England striker played, and scored, for a Man Utd side against Celtic in a fundraising fixture at Old Trafford.

Before kick-off, though, Rooney discussed his love for Celtic and was even gifted a shirt with his name and number printed on the back.

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