UK Football

LONDON, Dec 24 (Reuters) - Everton have rejected an approach by Scottish league leaders Celtic for striker James McFadden.

Celtic made a formal approach for the Scotland international over the weekend but despite not being a regular starter for Everton the Premier League club say he is staying on Merseyside.

"The fact is Celtic made a request to us on Saturday and it was immediately rejected out of hand," Everton chief executive Keith Wyness told the club's Web site (www.evertonfc.com).

"It is absolute nonsense to suggest that James McFadden will be joining Celtic on loan."

McFadden has enhanced his reputation this season after a string of impressive displays in Euro 2008 qualifiers, including a stunning winner in Scotland's 1-0 triumph in France.