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Rodgers had his next Sterling & Coutinho at Celtic, then he left goalless
Rodgers had his next Sterling & Coutinho at Celtic, then he left goalless
They say never go back, but Brendan Rodgers has eased any concerns amid what has been another dominant spell in charge at Celtic, having claimed the domestic double in 2023/24.
That first campaign back at Parkhead wasn’t perfect for the Northern Irishman, with the Hoops crashing out of the League Cup to Kilmarnock, although triumphs in the Premiership and the Scottish Cup ensured that the club’s Old Firm superiority continued, following the days of Ange Postecoglou.
Excluding his time south of the border – where he claimed the FA Cup and Community Shield at Leicester City – the experienced coach has now chalked up nine domestic trophies in Glasgow, with the early signs this season suggesting that haul could well be bolstered, amid a seven-game winning running in the league.
Excitement will also be brewing among the fanbase at the promising youngsters who are part of the current crop at Celtic Park – namely 21-year-old Arne Engels and 22-year-old Paulo Bernardo – with Rodgers, for the most part, having proven himself to be particularly adept at nurturing young talent.
Brendan Rodgers’ development of young talent
In truth, the former Liverpool boss has never been afraid to throw youngsters in at the deep end, with his first stint in Scotland notably seeing him snap up a 19-year-old Moussa Dembele for a compensation fee of only £500k. The Frenchman would later be sold for £20m.
Equally, Rodgers was also pivotal in the development of academy sensation, Kieran Tierney, with the homegrown full-back making 127 appearances under the one-time Swansea City coach, after previously making his debut under Ronny Deila.
Like with the example of Dembele, Tierney would later go on to secure the Bhoys a handsome profit amid his £25m switch to Arsenal in 2019, having credited Rodgers for helping him “become a much better player and professional“.
That knack for nurturing rising stars was also the case during Rodgers’ stint at Anfield, having handed a regular role to a 17-year-old Raheem Sterling, while also prising Philippe Coutinho from Inter Milan at the age of 20 – two players who would later rake in £49m and £142m, respectively, for the Merseysiders.
For all those success stories, there were, however, the odd occasion were the Carnlough native made a mistake in the market, having been proven wrong after snapping up what he believed to be his next Sterling or Coutinho while at Celtic.
Rodgers’ next Sterling & Coutinho at Celtic
Amid his first season at the helm back in 2016, Rodgers did notably acquire the likes of Dembele – alongside other significant names such as Scott Sinclair – although there was particular excitement regarding the addition of another up and comer midway through the campaign.
What did pundits and fans alike think about their new star signing when they arrived? Football FanCast’s ‘First Impressions’ series has everything you need.
That man was Ivorian starlet, Kouassi Eboue, with the promising midfielder arriving from Krasnador in January 2017 for a reported fee of around £3m.
Described as a ‘Champions League signing‘ by BBC Sport’s Tom English at the time – who pointed out Rodgers’ success with the likes of Coutinho and Dembele etc – Kouassi was also lauded by his new manager:
“He is one of those young players I look at with the same feeling I had as when I saw a young Coutinho or a young Sterling. Within 10 seconds you see his talent.
‘He is one, obviously, the scouting team have been aware of. Most coaches see something in a player that suits their way of working. But there are certain attributes in a young player you can see and you get a good feeling. This boy has that.”
High praise indeed for a player who had made just 19 senior appearances during his time in Russia prior to that, although it’s fair to say he never lived up to those lofty expectations.
Kouassi Eboue’s time at Celtic
From the get go it looked like it could be a tricky time in Scottish football for the then 19-year-old, with the teenager enduring a shaky first start against Partick Thistle in April 2017.
Speaking after that full league debut, Rodgers even joked that “after the first five minutes I thought we had signed his brother”, albeit while going on to admit that Eboue had “grew into the game” before being replaced on the hour mark.
The defensive midfielder ultimately ended that first six months at the club with just five appearances to his name, before going on to make just 12 outings in all competitions in the following season. His 2018/19 campaign was also cruelly cut short due to an ACL injury.
Despite struggling to oust skipper Scott Brown in the centre of the park – alongside those injury woes – Rodgers believed that his rough diamond would “certainly fulfil that role” when Brown eventually moved on. In the end, it was Eboue who departed first.
After racking up just 22 appearances in total in three years – a record that yielded no goals and only a solitary assist – the 6 foot 1 asset was then shipped on loan to Belgian side Genk in January 2020, prior to eventually joining the club permanently later that summer.
Kouassi Eboue’s career record
Club
Games
Goals
Assists
Arouca
53
4
0
Genk
22
0
0
Celtic
22
0
1
Krasnador
19
1
2
Krasnador II
5
0
1
Jong Genk
2
0
0
Total
123
5
4
Now 26, the former Celtic man is on the books at Portuguese outfit Arouca – whom he joined in 2023 – with his transfer value deemed to be around just £900k, as per Transfermarkt.
Perhaps he was merely doomed to fail from the start amid such notable comparisons to the likes of Sterling and Coutinho, although it’s fair to say that Eboue does not fall into the category of transfer success stories that Rodgers has enjoyed during his two stints at Parkhead.
Matt O’Riley closes in on Brighton injury return as former Celtic goal hero joins English minnows – Parkhead bulletin
O’Riley’s debut for the Seagulls was cut short after just eight minutes back in August.
Matt O’Riley is back in training
Former Celtic favourite Joe Miller is chuffed that Nicolas Kuhn is finally up and running in Glasgow, with the German winger arguably the Hoops’ Player of the Season so far.
Kuhn, 24, arrived at Celtic Park in a £3million deal from Rapid Vienna back in January, but in his first six months in Glasgow’s east end was only able to show glimpses of his ability as Brendan Rodgers‘ men eventually coasted to a third consecutive Premiership title. However, the former Bayern Munich youngster was then able to get a full pre-season under his belt and has subsequently started the campaign like a house on fire with six goals and eight assists in his first 11 matches in all competitions.
Miller – who lifted the league title and two Scottish Cups in his six seasons at Parkhead between 1987 and 1993 – reckons that Kuhn can raise his game even further. Speaking to PLZ Soccer, he said: “I think every player that goes to Celtic can feel the pressure of playing in that atmosphere where 60,000 watching you. But I think Kuhn has settled in and is starting to go at players, take people on and create chances.
“He is nipping in with a few goals himself so he can only get better and better and long may it continue. But on the other side of things you have the old head James Forrest who can still come on and contribute something. So I think we are well covered in that aspect.”
Elsewhere, ex-Celtic star Matt O’Riley is closing in on a return to fitness after his debut for English Premier League club Brighton ended in disaster. Just days after sealing a £25million transfer, the Denmark international was handed his first start in a Carabao Cup tie against Crawley Town on August 27.
However, his debut was ended after just eight minutes when he suffered an ankle injury after being on the end of a harsh tackle by opposition player Jay Williams. It was feared that the 23-year-old could be out for up to three months, but the Seagulls have now been handed a major boost after O’Riley featured in a training video on the club’s social media channels taking part in some ball drills.
Elsewhere, further down the English football pyramid, former Hoops goal hero Gary Hooper has signed for minnows Kettering Town in the Southern Premier Division Central league. The well travelled 36-year-old – who scored an impressive 82 goals in 138 games for Celtic – last played for National League side Barnet after spending five years way from England with Wellington Phoenix in Australia, Indian Super League side Kerala Blasters, Gulf United in the Middle East and Cypriot outfit AC Omonia, where he was reunited with his former Hoops boss Neil Lennon.
Gary Hooper at Celtic in 2011
Hooper has scored 255 goals in 640 club matches during his career, and was on the verge of winning international recognition for England during his time at Celtic only to miss out on a call-up through injury in November 2012. The striker will be hoping to help Kettering get back up to the National League North having suffered relegation at the end of the 2022/23 season.
“When I was at Celtic…” Ange Postecoglou calls out pretentiousness and arrogance
Ange Postecoglou lifts the Scottish Cup after the victory during the Scottish Cup Final between Celtic and Inverness Caledonian Thistle at Hampden P on June 03, 2023 (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
Ange Postecoglou telling it how it is…”When I was at Celtic I was expected to win. If you lose one game it’s a major problem”…
Ange Postecoglou looks on during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Coventry City and Tottenham Hotspur at The Coventry Building Society Arena on September 18, 2024.(Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
Ange doesn’t mince his words
Ange Postecoglou is a man who doesn’t mince his words, and more often than not gets straight to the point. Yesterday he had a dig at the English and their arrogance as he gave them a few home truths to stew on.
Ange was being quizzed by Optus Sport and was asked if this was the toughest period of his management given the scrutiny to perform in the Premier League.
A little bit of pretentiousness and arrogance
The first few words from his answer was enough to tell the English how it is. “There’s a little bit of pretentiousness and arrogance about people in the Premier League thinking they’re in a serious place, but it’s still football. The scrutiny is not a challenge for me.”
Coach Ange Postecoglou of the Brisbane Roar watches on during the round 14 A-League match between the Brisbane Roar and Sydney FC at Suncorp Stadium on January 14, 2012 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)
Ange of course has managed his country at a World Cup and managed Celtic where every single thing he done was magnified such was the expectation to win each and every game.
The pressure to succeed in Scotland is something the English can’t seem to grasp. You not only need to be talented, but you have to be mentally tough to be able to manage our football club where you are expected to win every single match.
Good on Ange for telling it how it is as he talked about how difficult it is to manage Celtic where expectations are sky high.
“When I was at Celtic I was expected to win”
“The challenge is the competition – you’re playing against the best in the world. The demands of that are pretty dramatic in terms of where I’ve come from in terms of starting my journey. This club has its own unique challenges for sure. Are they more difficult than others? I don’t know.
“When I was at Celtic I was expected to win. If you lose one game it’s a major problem and not many can cope with that.”
Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou lifts the League Cup with teammates trophy following victory in the Viaplay Cup Final between Rangers and Celtic at Hampden Park on February 26, 2023 (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
As for Tottenham actually winning a trophy under his stewardship Ange had this to say: “It’s just a different challenge for sure. I get why people would say it’s the level and the scrutiny is the reason why you’re not having success – I don’t believe that. I believe we will have success and there’s nothing here that makes me think that is insurmountable.”
Rangers argument for Thomas Tuchel to England provided in left-field claim as Celtic hit out after UEFA news
Celtic have been hit with sanctions following a Champions League game.
Rangers and Celtic will return to Scottish Premiership action at the weekend, following the international break –
Celtic will take on Aberdeen as the Gers gear up to take on Kilmarnock. In the meantime, let’s take a look at what is circulating in the rumour mill today.
Stan Collymore has given his candid view on why an English coach was not appointed as the new manager of the England national team, using Rangers wage as an example – furthermore, Celtic have been hit with UEFA sanctions following the actions of a group of their supporters during their 7-1 defeat against Borussia Dortmund.
Stan Collymore back Thomas Tuchel following appointment, using Steven Gerrard as example
Stan Collymore gave his viewpoint as to why England appointed Thomas Tuchel instead of an English coach – he noted the amount of money it takes to obtain a pro licence in England, as opposed to Spain.
As such, he thinks it is no surprise that ex-professional players choose to jump into jobs straight away, rather than undertaking the coaching courses available – using Rangers and ex-boss Steven Gerrard as an example.
Writing on X (formerly Twitter), Collymore penned: “£13,700 to do your Pro licence in England, today. In Spain, it’s around €2000. There are 2200 Spanish pro licence coaches. There are 200 English pro licence coaches. Look at the correlation between cost and coaching number.
“Gerrard, Lampard, Rooney all took jobs instead of doing 3 years at SGP. Why? Gerrard got £2.5m at Rangers, Lampard £1m [at] Derby, Rooney $1m [at] Washington. Fuentes, Spanish head coach coached Sevilla and Bilbao youth on around €30k then Alaves first team where he lasted 6 months on around €100k before being sacked.”
Celtic sanctioned following Borussia Dortmund match
Celtic have been hit with UEFA sanctions after a group of supporters set off pyrotechnics during their Champions League game against Borussia Dortmund – the club is said to be ‘extremely disappointed’ with their behaviour. Not only have the Hoops been slapped with a €20,000 (£16,709), they have also been banned from selling tickets to fans for one of their upcoming away games in UEFA competitions.
In a statement on their official club website, Celtic wrote: “The Club has received the decision issued by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body following the match against Borussia Dortmund, in which the Club has been sanctioned, again, for the lighting of fireworks by a small number of individuals attending the match.
The decision provides that, not only has the Club received a fine of €20,000, but also that, if such behaviour is repeated at a match in the next two years, the Club will be prevented from selling tickets to supporters for one away match in UEFA club competitions.
“It is hugely disappointing, therefore, that the conduct of a very small minority has led to this decision, which could potentially have such a negative and damaging impact on the team and Celtic supporters wishing to attend an away match to support the team.”
Celtic man Anthony Ralston’s class Instagram message after stirring Scotland display vs Portugal
The international break can be a waiting game for some Celtic supporters, but for Anthony Ralston, the chance to feature for Scotland was a successful exercise.
Despite being behind Alistair Johnston in the pecking order, the 25-year-old featured across both of the Tartan Army’s Nations League matches and didn’t let himself down.
Anthony Ralston’s solid display against Croatia in Zagreb last weekend was well-received in Scottish media circles.
Meanwhile, his performance at home to Portugal during the week facing the likes of Diogo Jota and Rafael Leao had to be admired.
Post-match, Steve Clarke praised Ralston’s ability to handle difficult opponents, stating: “I think defensively, you have to credit everybody. Tony Ralston, good against difficult opponents.
“Jota and then Leao comes off (the bench), I think Leao coming off the bench was what ultimately done for Tony’s calves. It was why Nicky got on the pitch.”
Sharing how he is feeling after sampling two tests against the elite, Ralston took to Instagram as the international window closes for a few weeks.
Celtic man Anthony Ralston takes to Instagram
Taking to the social media platform, Ralston was clearly delighted with his showing against Portugal as the Celtic man hopes to put himself in contention under Brendan Rodgers.
Accompanying three snaps from the Nations League encounter, the defender also wrote a short caption which read: “Always an honour.”
In the comments, Celtic star Luis Palma commented with a couple of emojis as he congratulated his teammate. The Honduran was actually in attendance himself, taking in his performance.
Former Celtic goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist also chimed in, responding with a simple ‘love it Raldo’ after he helped to silence a talented Portugal frontline.
Anthony Ralston will want to kick on at Celtic
With only one start in his six appearances this campaign, Ralston will want to kick on at the club as the season takes shape.
Ultimately, performing well on the international scene may be the best way to prove his point alongside putting his best foot forward in training every day.
Rodgers did indicate Ralston would play more for Celtic in 2024/25, but it remains to be seen whether he will end up holding a more prominent role moving forward. Either way, it was great to see him shine for Scotland on international duty.
Celtic thought they had their new Tierney, now he’s already left Parkhead
The January transfer window is still a number of months away from opening for business but Celtic have already been linked with a potential swoop for one of their former players.
It was recently reported that Arsenal left-back Kieran Tierney has made securing a return to Parkhead a priority ahead of the second half of the season.
The outlet revealed that the Hoops are considering a move for the Scotland international, whilst the Gunners are prepared to allow him to leave on loan to secure a switch back to Glasgow.
Tierney left Celtic to sign for the Premier League giants for a fee of £25m in the summer of 2019 having enjoyed a wonderful career at the club.
Across a whopping 170 appearances, he won everything Scotland had to offer, including an impressive five Scottish Premiership titles.
The Bhoys had already signed Boli Bolingoli as his replacement, but as we all know by now, it didn’t go quite according to plan…
How much Celtic spent on Boli Bolingoli
The Scottish giants swooped to sign the Belgian defender for a reported fee of £3m on a £780k-per-season salary from Austrian side Rapid Vienna to take over from the academy graduate in the 2019/20 campaign.
He had produced two goals and two assists in 25 matches in the Bundesliga during the previous season, but had also lost 53% of his duels in the division.
Despite his struggles on the physical side of the game, Celtic decided to splash out a fee of £3m on the full-back, who stated that he wanted to “emulate” Tierney’s success at left-back for the Scottish Premiership side.
He made 28 appearances in all competitions during his first season at Parkhead and only played 14 times in the Premiership, providing two assists in the top flight, as a knee injury limited his involvement.
Unfortunately, Bolingoli was never able to kick on after his first season with the Scottish giants, after falling behind Greg Taylor in the pecking order, and that was thanks in no small part to a major error he made in 2020.
What happened to Boli Bolingoli
The £3m flop travelled to Spain prior to a clash with Kilmarnock at the start of the 2020/21 campaign and, due to quarantine rules at the time, should have resulted in him spending 14 days in isolation.
Instead, he kept his trip quiet and played in the game, after training with his teammates throughout the week, and Celtic had their subsequent two matches suspended after the truth came out.
Neil Lennon, the manager at the time, stated that he and the club were “bitterly” let down by the “selfish” full-back and that the Hoops were left “livid” by the situation.
Boli Bolingoli’s declining value
Date
Market value
July 2019
£2.9m
April 2020
£2m
May 2021
£1.8m
December 2021
£1.2m
November 2022
£752k
December 2023 – present
£418k
The dud was then sent out on loan to Basaksehir in Turkey a month later, where he played 18 games, and later returned to play two matches under Ange Postecoglou in the 2021/22 campaign, before joining UFA on loan.
Bolingoli then signed for KV Mechelen for an undisclosed fee in the summer of 2022, after his Transfermarkt value had already dropped by more than £2m, and he currently plays for Standard Liege at the age of 29 – valued at just £418k.
He was, ultimately, unable to emulate Tierney’s success at Celtic and let the team down with his behaviour in the summer of 2020, which is why the £3m fee and the £780k he earned in wages during his first year in Scotland was wasted.
7 things in Paul Tisdale’s Celtic inbox from Tierney dilemma and £8.3m wonderkid to escalating Hatate problem
The new head of football operations has some big calls to make at Celtic Park
Paul Tisdale has been appointed as the new head of football operations at Celtic – and he faces a bumper transfer remit with the winter window fast approaching.
Out of favour Luis Palma could be taking a glance a the exit door having been told he must ramp up his game time at Celtic to reclaim an international spot by Honduras boss Reinaldo Rueda. The winger has struggled for minutes so far this season having made just one start so far this season in the Premier Sports Cup win over Falkirk, with his three league cameos coming off the bench.
That led to the 24-year-old being left out of the international squad for clashes with French Guiana and Jamaica. During break from domestic action, Palma has done his best to catch the eye of Brendan Rodgers by netting a hat-trick in the friendly win over Sligo Rovers – but Honduras boss Rueda has set the rules for him returning to the fold.
He told La Prensa: “Luis Palma, luckily, played in a friendly match and got some minutes. We hope he continues to have more participation with his team and he will then be considered.”
Similarly, Reo Hatate will be looking to ramp up his minutes for the international team – could he be looking for a move away from the Premiership to impress Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu? The midfielder has revealed he’s had a ‘personal conversation’ with the boss after travelling almost 30,000 miles in the past month for international footbal without kicking a ball.
Before flying back for the clash with Aberdeen this weekend, Hatate revealed: “I won’t say what it is, but I have had personal conversations about my situation with the manager. I want to help the national team as much as possible if I do get to play.
“Of course I want to be in the team, but my top priority is doing whatever it takes to help us win and get to the World Cup Finals. And I will do whatever it takes to get there.”
Celtic’s Reo Hatate (Image: SNS Group)
A transfer windfall that could be incoming to Celtic Park in January is the sale of Alexandro Bernabei. Currently on loan in Brazil at Internacional, the left-back is racking up regular minutes for the club.
With his temporary deal set to expire at the end of the year, the Hoops will be given the chance to recoup some of the £3.75m they spent on the Argentine back in 2022. Club vice-president Jose Olavo Bisol has already confirmed they want to keep the left-back – but has admitted the ultimate decision lies with the defender: “The player’s will is fundamental to a positive outcome. We are optimistic that a deal can be agreed.”
Another man who could be on the way out permanently is Gustaf Lagerbielke after failing to make his mark after a £3m switch from Elfsborg in 2023. He has been racking up minutes for FC Twente on loan, and the Swede has left the door open to a permanent move to the Netherlands, telling FotbollDireckt: “First of all, it’s about being able to play and be an important player in the team.
“With that comes development and hopefully titles as well. Then you play every match to win, so it goes a little hand in hand.”
Celtic hit with Champions League away fan BAN as UEFA stand firm on anti-pyro stance
The Hoops have also fined €20,000 after supporters let off pyrotechnics in the 7-1 loss to Dortmund in Germany
Celtic fans let off a huge pyrotechnic display in the defeat to Dortmund (Image: SNS Group)
UEFA have hit Celtic with an away fan ban after fans disregarded calls not to bring pyrotechnics into the Westfalenstadion.
Hoops fans had travelled in their numbers to Germany for the clash with Borussia Dortmund on matchday two of the revamped Champions League group stage, but it turned out to be a disastrous night for Brendan Rodgers‘ men, who were thrashed 7-1 by the Bundesliga side. Prior to kick-off, the away end in Westphalia was engulfed with a huge display of pyro and smoke set off by Celtic supporters.
And now in response to the infringement, UEFA have slapped the Premiership champions with a one-match away ban. However, the ban has actually been suspended for two years, leaving Hoops fans free to make the trip to northern Italy to see their team take on Europa League holders Atalanta on matchday three. The club have however been ordered to pay €20,000 fine for the fan behaviour in the fixture on October 1.
A UEFA statement read: “Charges against Celtic FC: Lighting of fireworks, Art. 16(2)(c) DR
“Decision: The CEDB has decided: To fine Celtic FC €20,000 and to ban Celtic FC from selling tickets to its away supporters for a total of one (1) UEFA club competition match, for lighting of fireworks. Said ban from selling tickets to its away supporters is suspended for a probationary period of two (2) years, starting from the date of the present decision.”
Rodgers side will be looking to bounce back from their mauling in Germany when they face Atalanta next Wednesday. But before then the Hoops go out to defend their impeccable start of their championship when they welcome high-flying Aberdeen to Parkhead on
Celtic vs Aberdeen: TV channel, live stream & kick-off
in a top of the table clash on Saturday (Image: SNS)
Celtic face Aberdeen in a table-topping Scottish Premiership tie on Saturday.
Both clubs have taken a full 21 points from their opening seven league outings this season.
Brendan Rodgers‘ side sit top on goal difference with 22 goals for and just one against this season.
However, Jimmy Thelin will be keen to extend his flawless winning run since being appointed Aberdeen manager in the summer with an upset in Glasgow.
Everything you need to know about Celtic vs Aberdeen…
When is Celtic vs Aberdeen?
Celtic host Aberdeen on Saturday, October 19.
The match will be played at Celtic Park.
Kick-off is at 3pm.
Is Celtic vs Aberdeen on TV?
No. The match was not selected for TV coverage.
Sky Sports selected to televise the match between Kilmarnock and Rangers this weekend in their picks at the start of September.
Premier Sports will not show the match as part of their TV deal.
Can I live stream Celtic vs Aberdeen?
No. The match is not available to live stream for those within the UK & Ireland.
Why is Celtic vs Aberdeen not on TV?
The match is not live on TV due to broadcaster complexities. Sky Sports have the first pick of matches to televise through their deal with the SPFL.
The broadcaster selected the match between Kilmarnock and Rangers for coverage when choices were made back in September.
Sky Sports can show up to five matches at each stadium and 60 matches in total in their deal which runs until 2029.
Due to Sky Sports not showing the match, Premier Sports could then cover the fixture with clubs to receive £75,000 if matches are selected in their secondary 20-game deal.
However, Celtic have opted out of the deal with Premier Sports meaning the broadcaster cannot show the match.
It’s thought Celtic chiefs pulled out of the deal in order to avoid causing inconvenience to season tickets holders as televising the match would have meant a change in kick-off time from the 3pm slot
Scotland debut hero reflects on ‘special moment’ and reveals what happened to Cristiano Ronaldo’s top
Debutant makes big impact on first cap
Nicky Devlin completed a fairytale journey when he stepped onto the Hampden pitch on Tuesday night.
The Aberdeen right-back made his international debut as an 88th minute replacement for Anthony Ralston and played a major part in helping Scotland earn a much-needed Nations League point against Portugal.
His incredible block just seconds after coming on, bravely throwing his body in front of Rafeal Leao to deny the £35million AC Milan winger a close range shot on goal, was a crucial moment in securing the clean sheet that ensured he and his team-mates avoided the unwanted tag of being involved in a fifth straight loss for the first time in the nation’s history.
His valuable contribution ensured the 30-year-old can look back on his first cap with a great deal of pride, but simply pulling on the Scotland jersey was a huge achievement for a player whose career has taken off at Pittodrie after spells with Motherwell, Dumbarton, Stenhousemuir, Ayr, Walsall and Livingston. It was a memorable night for the entire Devlin family, with his father, brothers, wife Lauren, and his children all in attendance to soak up the occasion.
Scotland debutant Nicky Devlin makes a vital block to deny Portugal’s Rafael Leao. (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group) | SNS Group
“It’s a special moment for me, my family and everyone that has been connected with me growing up playing football,” Devlin said. “As much as I’m delighted and unbelievably proud, I think, for them as well, they’ve been with me when I was young and part-time in League One in Scotland. They’ve travelled everywhere, all over the country and all over Europe last season as well with Aberdeen, so it’s a big reward for them as well.
“I’ve been given that opportunity to go on today and that’s the dream of millions of people. I understand that and I’ll never take that for granted. It’s been ups and downs all the time really, but it’s not something I would change. Having the ups and downs has put me in the position I’m in today. More importantly it was a good result for the team and probably deserved over the last few games.”
Reflecting on his big block, which prevented goalkeeper Craig Gordon from facing a goalbound shot at close range, Devlin admitted he was just relieved to avoid conceding a penalty.
“At times that’s what you have to do as a defender. I probably took inspiration from watching the boys the last few games. They’ve had to make a lot of blocks and Craigy’s made a few big saves so you’ve just got to go on and do your part. When I went to block it your conscious of trying to keep your arms down. I knew I was probably the last line before Craigy was going to have to save it so I managed to keep my arms away from the block thankfully.”
Devlin revealed he was given a special memento from head coach Steve Clarke to mark his first cap but was unable to get his hands on Cristiano Ronaldo’s top after the Portugal superstar left the field in a strop.
“I think Che [Adams] might have got his top to be fair,” he said. “I don’t think he was too happy at the end… I got one with my name on the back and the number one which the manager gave me, so I was delighted with that.”
Celtic Star Gives ‘Great Balance’ To Side Insists Former Goalkeeper
Christof Koepsel/Getty Images
Former Scottish Premiership goalkeeper Joe Lewis is of the view that Liam Scales as a left-footed centre-back provides balance to Celtic’s formation.
Despite a slow start to his career at Celtic, the 26-year-old centre-back has established himself as a regular in Brendan Rodgers’ starting line-up.
Scales has started ten games so far this season in all competitions and has turned some heads with his performances.
Lewis, who has played with Scales during his time at Aberdeen, believes that the centre-back being left-footed brings balance to the Bhoys squad.
He thinks that a left-footed centre-back like Scales is a very valuable asset for a team and stressed that the defender has a lot of ability.
“He is doing well and he has a lot of ability. He is a very good defender”, Lewis .
“What he gives you is great balance as a left-footed centre half.
“I think left-footed centre-halves just tend to be more valuable and you create that evenness and balance throughout the formation, so that is where he has even more value.”
Scales will also be looking to shine in Europe this season, with Celtic in action in the Champions League league phase.
Celtic handed away ticket ban following pyro in Dortmund
Celtic fans in Dortmund (Image: Craig Williamson – SNS Group)
Celtic have been hit with a potential shock away fan ban following the ‘lighting of fireworks’ by supporters in Dortmund.
A section of the Hoops support set off a pyro display in Germany during their Champions League humbling at the hands of the Bundesliga giants.
As well as handing out the ban, suspended for two years, the Scottish Premiership champions have been fined £16.7k, which is to be paid immediately.
The ban is “from selling tickets to its away supporters for a total of one (1) UEFA club competition match, for lighting of fireworks” is “suspended for a probationary period of two (2) years.”
A spokesperson from local German police said at the time: “Any violation will lead to legal consequences and will be punished.
“The police of Dortmund will not condone misbehaviour of any kind and will probably exclude those supporters from the match.
“This means that because of your misconduct and despite being here to support your team, you will not have access to the stadium.”‘
The Uefa statement read in full: Match: Borussia Dortmund vs. Celtic FC (7:1), 01.10.2024, UEFA Champions League 2024/2025
“Charges against Celtic FC: Lighting of fireworks, Art. 16(2)(c) DR
“Decision: The CEDB has decided: “To fine Celtic FC €20,000 and to ban Celtic FC from selling tickets to its away supporters for a total of one (1) UEFA club competition match, for lighting of fireworks.
“Said ban from selling tickets to its away supporters is suspended for a probationary period of two (2) years, starting from the date of the present decision.”
Celtic CEO Michael Nicholson Breaks Silence on Recruitment Shake-Up
Celtic Chief Executive Michael Nicholson has broken his silence following the club’s major reshuffle of its recruitment department, with the appointment of Paul Tisdale as the new Head of Football Operations. This move marks a significant step in Celtic’s ongoing restructuring behind the scenes, a process that has been accelerated under Brendan Rodgers’ second tenure at the club.
Nicholson , who has been tight lipped since Mark Lawwell’s departure, addressed the appointment, telling Celticfc.com: “We are delighted to appoint Paul as Head of Football Operations, and we are sure he will bring a new dimension to our work. Talent identification and talent development, from our Academy through to our first team, is of fundamental importance to the club’s strategy, and Paul has tremendous expertise in these areas.”
After months of uncertainty following Mark Lawwell’s departure, the appointment of Tisdale is a clear signal that Celtic are intent on revamping their recruitment processes, something that has faced criticism in recent seasons. Nicholson added: “We are certain that he will bring great experience, energy and innovation to what we do, working alongside Brendan, our football manager, Chris McCart, Head of Academy, and our excellent wider football staff, to bring further development and success to the club.”
28th October 2023; Easter Road, Edinburgh, Scotland: Scottish Premiership Football, Hibernian versus Celtic; Celtic chairman Peter Lawwell chats to CEO Michael Nicholson in the stand
Interestingly, Brendan Rodgers was somewhat convinced to return to Celtic in 2023, partly due to the structure the club had in place behind the scenes. However, after reviewing the club’s recruitment strategy—particularly after a couple of lacklustre windows in the transfer market—Rodgers has taken an active role in overhauling the system.
We understand Rodgers has played a significant part in ripping up the old recruitment approach and spearheading a fresh start in a bid to get Celtic’s transfer dealings back on track. The manager acknowledged this in his comments on Tisdale’s arrival: “I am so pleased that we have been able to bring Paul to the club in this important new role, and I am really looking forward to working with him. He is a hugely talented man who I know will make a real positive difference to us and give us a new edge.”
Rodgers has clearly embraced the chance to build from the ground up, explaining the need for modernising the club’s recruitment to meet the demands of top-level football: “He knows modern football inside out, he understands what we need as a club, what our team needs to operate at a high level, and how we can develop positively and successfully across a number of functions within the club.”
Rodgers’ involvement in the revamp has been crucial as he works closely with Nicholson, Tisdale, and Chris McCart to ensure that the club’s scouting, recruitment, and academy efforts are unified and forward-thinking. Both Rodgers and Nicholson believe Tisdale’s appointment will provide the expertise needed to push Celtic to the next level.
With the January transfer window on the horizon, there will be no time for Tisdale to ease into his role. Fans will be expecting results, and Tisdale’s experience and innovation will be critical as Celtic look to strengthen key areas of the squad while nurturing the next generation of talent.
Aberdeen facing eye-watering Premiership cash chasm as Celtic mega fees dwarf rivals
Aberdeen will see their 100 per cent start to the season go up against its biggest test yet when they take on Celtic this weekend.
The Dons are seven wins from seven in the Premiership so far, and 13 from 13 overall under new boss Jimmy Thelin. They hope to maintain their early season charge to stay in the title race with the Hoops and Rangers.
Plenty have already had their say on whether Aberdeen can challenge or split the Old Firm by finishing second, but the true proof will be in the pudding as they travel to the hardest venue there is in Scottish football.
Celtic were up against a financial chasm as they were thumped 7-1 by Dortmund in the Champions League but the script is flipped when they take on their Premiership rivals domestically.
Aberdeen coughed up close to £1million to sign Finland international Topi Keskinen from HJK Helsinki in the summer but that is chicken feed to the champions as they splashed out £11m on record signing Arne Engels.
Not the Old Firm has decided to take a look at the financial disparity between the two ahead of their top-of-the-table clash.
Celtic
Goalkeepers
Kasper Schmeichel (free)
Viljami Sinisalo (£1m)
Scott Bain (free)
Defenders
Alistair Johnston (£3.5m)
Greg Taylor (£3m)
Liam Scales (£500,000)
Auston Trusty (£6m)
Alex Valle (loan)
Maik Nawrocki (£4.3m)
Cameron Carter-Vickers (£6m)
Anthony Ralston (Academy)
Stephen Welsh (Academy)
Midfielders
Reo Hatate (£1.4m)
Luis Palma (£3.5m)
Nicolas Kuhn (£3m)
Yang Hyun-jun (£2m)
Luke McCowan (£1m)
Arne Engels (£11m)
Paulo Bernardo (£3.5m)
Callum McGregor (Academy)
James Forrest (Academy)
Adam Montgomery (Academy)
Attackers
Kyogo Furuhashi (£4.5m)
Adam Idah (£9.5m)
Daizen Maeda (£1.6m)
Total squad cost – £69.3m
Aberdeen
Goalkeepers
Dimitar Mitov (£300k)
Ross Doohan (£210k)
Defenders
Nicky Devlin (free)
Jack MacKenzie (academy)
Slobodan Rubezic (£200k)
Gavin Molloy (£63k)
James McGarry (£250k)
Jack Milne (academy)
Angus MacDonald (free)
Midfielders
Graeme Shinnie (£335k)
Sivert Nilsen (£300k)
Jamie McGrath (free)
Leighton Clarkson (£670k)
Shayden Morris (£125k)
Dante Polvara (free)
Vicente Besuijen (£335k)
Ante Palaversa (£295k)
Fletcher Boyd (academy)
Topi Keskinen (£840k)
Forwards
Kevin Nisbet (loan)
Duk (£395k)
Pape Gueye (£485k)
Ester Sokler (£295k)
Peter Ambrose (£250k)
Alfie Bavidge (academy)
Total squad cost – £5.35m
Total difference between the two – £63.95m
Who will Celtic start in midfield this weekend? – video
Morning briefing (Image: NQ)
Hamish Carton was joined by Ryan McGinlay and Tony Haggerty to discuss the latest news in Wednesday’s edition of The Celtic Way’s morning briefing for October 16.
On today’s show, the trio spoke about Scotland’s battling 0-0 draw with Portugal last night, which Tony Ralston played in. They revelled in the fact that the international break was over, looking ahead to Brendan Rodgers facing off against Jimmy Thelin in the Scottish Premiership when Celtic take on Aberdeen on Saturday.
With that in mind, the boys discussed who they would start in the midfield alongside captain Callum McGregor and record-signing Arne Engels. Will it be Paulo Bernardo, Reo Hatate or Luke McCowan?
There was also a healthy discussion about the sheer volume of games being played in a season – a debate that has been ongoing for years now. Do footballers play too many games in all competitions?
As always, you can keep up to date with the morning briefing by clicking PLAY on the video player at the bottom of this article…
Anthony Ralston, a Celtics player, receives a tough judgment from Marvin Bartley on an international scale.
Celtic man Anthony Ralston has enjoyed some time in Scotland’s starting line-up during the international break despite coming on mainly from the bench at club level this term.
The 25-year-old has made six appearances for the Bhoys this campaign, with one start falling against Falkirk in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final.
However, Scotland’s right-back injury crisis has fallen into Anthony Ralston’s lap, and he has been able to make inroads in cementing a starting slot for the Tartan Army.
Playing every game at EURO 2024, the Celtic man has continued from the beginning in every one of their Nations League fixtures so far under Steve Clarke.
With a solitary assist against Poland earlier in the campaign illustrating his capacity to bomb forward, Ralston also turned in a solid display against Croatia last weekend as the Scots fell to a narrow defeat in Zagreb.
Despite having his detractors, Marvin Bartley has sent a firm message regarding his credentials on the international stage.
Marvin Bartley jumps to the defence of Anthony Ralston
Discussing Scotland’s patchy recent run of form, Bartley believes that Ralston sometimes shoulders an inappropriate share of the blame when pulling on the national team jersey.
He explained [Clyde 1 Superscoreboard]: “I don’t even think it takes a bad game for Ralston at times for him to get the blame, if I’m honest, with some of the stuff you do read.
“That wasn’t the issue; there have been injuries, everybody knows that. Loads of big players, Tierney, McGinn for example, but it gives someone else the opportunity to go in and play.”
Ralston does get it in the neck from some quarters for whatever reason while playing with Scotland, but he is always ready to step in with a level of commitment that is second-to-none, exemplifying the approach every professional should take while honing their craft.
Anthony Ralston’s chances of a Celtic breakthrough
At the tail end of last season, Brendan Rodgers indicated Ralston would play more for Celtic this term and talked up his readiness to step in when called upon.
He stated: “He will feature more for me next season. Part of this season was that Ali (Johnston) was the first choice. Tony came in and played some games. Ali had been out for a while so when he came back from injury I needed to get him games to get him up to speed. That meant that Tony hadn’t played so much.
“But there are a few things with Tony. One, I know he is always ready because if he is not playing in games, his training is the game. So he trains every day, and his standard, quality, and mentality are like that of a game.”
While his appearances for Celtic remain drip-fed for now, the hefty fixture schedule on the horizon for the Bhoys is likely to help Ralston’s pursuit of regular game-time. Hopefully, he can seize his chance when it comes
Scotland’s case for the defence amid pitch invader and stingless Portuguese man o’ awe
Clarke’s men are up and running in Nations League Group A after battling draw with exalted opposition
There is to be no unwanted slice of history for Steve Clarke, no competitive five-game losing run. Scotland are off the mark in Nations League Group A1, earning a point at Hampden with a 0-0 draw against Portugal.
The head coach has refused to panic during Scotland’s recent travails. While detractors will still point to a sequence of just one win in 16 games, this stalemate with Portugal is a step in the right direction. Wins at this level are hard to come by.
Amid green shoots of recovery after the Euros, Scotland had lost narrowly in their three previous assignments, including in Lisbon. Not this time. Cristiano Ronaldo and Co were kept out in a triumph for Scotland’s back four. They withstood plenty of pressure, with centre-halves Grant Hanley and John Souttar impressive. If confidence is an issue within this current squad, they got a shot of it with this performance.
Billy Gilmour takes on Vitinha during Scotland’s draw with Portugal. | SNS Group
Two more Nations League matches remain, back in Glasgow against Croatia on November 15 before a trip to Poland three days later. Scotland are three points behind the Poles after their 3-3 draw with the Croats in Warsaw. Shorn of more than a dozen squad regulars in this international window, Clarke at least has some foundations to build upon. This was a performance of grit, organisation and determination against exalted opposition.
There were some statistical matters to record. Clarke clocked up his 62nd match in charge of the national team, moving him outright second in the standings, nine behind Craig Brown. Captain Andy Robertson now sits fourth in the list of all-time capped players on 78, with goalkeeper Craig Gordon now on 77. At the other end of the scale, Aberdeen right-back Nicky Devlin won his first cap as a late substitute.
With options limited in an inexperienced squad, Clarke only made one change to the team that fared well in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat by Croatia. Striker Che Adams took Lyndon Dykes’ place at the head of a 4-2-3-1 formation. Teenager winger Ben Doak started once again, a fourth cap for the mercurial 18-year-old, although this time he was on the left rather than the right. Clarke spoke pre-match of managing the hype surrounding Middlesbrough’s on-loan Liverpool starlet, but there was little reason not to unleash him upon Portugal after some moments of promise in Zagreb.
A packed Hampden Park was also able witness a rare – and perhaps final – sight of Portugal’s legendary 39-year-old forward Cristiano Ronaldo, only making his second appearance on Scottish soil. He was part of a Manchester United team that faced Celtic in 2008 and an unused substitute against Rangers at Ibrox in 2003
The only man older than him on the pitch was Gordon, whose last outing at the national stadium looked set to be a farewell against Finland just before the Euros. You would have got decent odds on the 41-year-old being back between the sticks at Hampden, although no doubt benefitting from No 1 keeper Angus Gunn’s injury.
Craig Gordon claws away a Nuno Mendes free-kick. | SNS Group
Gordon was afforded a warm reception by the Tartan Army, as was former first minister Alex Salmond, whose memory was marked with a minute’s applause following his death at the weekend. Ronaldo’s first touch was booed, before loud cheers greeted him giving the ball away.
Scotland started brightly, and really ought to have opened the scoring on five minutes. The ball was sent out to Doak and he found fellow Liverpool man Robertson. The left-back’s cross was perfect, landing right on the head of Scott McTominay, but his effort was too close to Diogo Costa and the Portuguese keeper saved. It was a big moment, even so early in the encounter.
Portugal then assumed control of the football. Every one of their outfield players is a technician, comfortable in tight spaces and under pressure. Portugal did, however, pick up the first yellow card on 17 minutes, Diogo Jota cautioned for an over-the-top challenge on Anthony Ralston, before the moany Bruno Fernandes thumped the ball into the chest of Adams and Ronaldo got in the face of Belgian referee Lawrence Visser. Portuguese petulance was also on show.
Gordon was forced into a diving one-handed save from a vicious Nuno Mendes free-kick on 25 minutes and Ronaldo was back in the thick of it on the half-hour mark, sending a bicycle kick wide. Portugal’s No 7 was the focus of their attacks, but Souttar and Hanley kept the closest of tabs on him. The Al-Nassr forward then blazed over from a promising position on 40 minutes. It was the last act of a fairly pedestrian first half.
It was a frustrating night for Cristiano Ronaldo. | SNS Group
It took two minutes into the second half for Ronaldo to be presented with another chance. Robertson gave the ball away cheaply and his Liverpool teammate Jota stood up a cross, only for the striker to head wildly over.
The quality level was diminishing. Portugal manager Roberto Martinez realised this. A trio of substitutes came on the hour-mark – including AC Milan’s trickster Rafael Leao. But even he was muted. Portugal were labouring a little.
A rare Scotland attack on 71 minutes just broke down when Adams’ downward header could not find McTominay in the box. Then substitute Ryan Gauld sent Ralston scampering down the right, his cross evading McTominay by a whisker. This was all against the general grain, Scotland were hemmed in, playing counter-attack football. It would be up to Portugal to conjure up a moment.
Ronaldo thought he’d had it on 82 minutes, but his driven effort skidded just wide. Unlike late on in the Estadio da Luz back in September, the Portuguese man o’ awe had lost his sting.
His elder, Gordon, had the bigger say. What a cracking save he produced on 87 minutes, denying Fernandes from point-blank range. A pitch invader then scampered on, trying to get a selfie with Ronaldo. A steward rugby-tackled him, shortly followed by an excellent Devlin block on Leao. This was a night for Scotland’s defence.
Landry and Karajovanovic were selected Most Valuable Players.
Stefan Karajovanovic of Gloucester Celtic FC and Marie-Joëlle Landry of CS Trident Ancienne-Lorette were named the Most Valuable Players of this year’s Toyota National Championships in Surrey, British Columbia. Karajovanovic helped Gloucester Celtic FC win their third national men’s amateur title in 12 years while Landry led CS Trident to their first national women’s amateur title.
Karajovanovic, a 25-year old midfielder who grew up in Gatineau, Québec across the river from Ottawa, led Ottawa’s Gloucester Celtic FC with three goals in five matches at the 2024 Toyota National Championships. He helped Gloucester Celtic FC win 1:0 over Nova Scotia’s Suburban FC in the Canadian Final.
Landry, a 20-year old midfielder from Québec City, captained CS Trident to their first title after a 3-1 win on penalties in the Canadian Final. CS Trident were trailing 1-0 late before Landry caused the turnover that led to the equalising goal. This was Landry’s second Toyota National Championships after CS Trident finished in third place in 2022.
Across the youth divisions, Nazarii Bulyhin (Saskatoon Alliance) and Jill Varney (Edmonton BTB SC) won MVP honours at the U-17 Cup in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia while Romano Campagna (Burlington Force SA) and Hadley Nelson (Edmonton Warriors SC) won MVP honours at the U-15 Cup in Quinte West, Ontario.
Canada Soccer’s Toyota National Championships are hosted each October across six divisions in three venues: the men’s Challenge Trophy and women’s Jubilee Trophy (adult competitions) in Surrey, British Columbia; the U-17 Cup in Cape Breton for boys and girls; the U-15 Cup in Quinte West for boys and girls.
At all age levels, Canada Soccer’s national amateur competitions provide a meaningful soccer experience for host cities and participating teams, including the players, coaches, support staff, officials and volunteers. For more information on hosting opportunities for future editions of Canada Soccer’s national amateur competitions, interested communities and soccer organisations should visit canadasoccer.com/nationals.
Scotland reaction: Clarke reveals rareScotland reaction: Clarke reveals rare celebration moment, debutant praise, Martinez’s Ronaldo concern
The Scots put in a disciplined, defensively diligent display against Cristiano Ronaldo and his fellow forwards, with the back-four and goalkeeper Craig Gordon playing a vital part in the draw. The result allows Scotland to build ahead of the final matches in the group, at home to Croatia on November 15 and away to Poland three days later, as they look to maintain their top-tier status in the tournament..
Scotland remain on a run of just one win in 16 matches, but the draw – and manner of it – gave more optimism given the squad is currently without more than a dozen regulars, including key men such as John McGinn and Kieran Tierney.
Steve Clarke hailed the performance from Scotland against Portugal. | SNS Group
“Obviously, the point was important for us,” said Clarke. “The work we’ve put into the group, to get off the mark is nice. So, yeah, it’s good. We were defensively sound, the shape of the team good. We denied a lot of space behind. We had good concentration in the box and determined defending at times.
“Some really good blocks, which you have to do against a team like Portugal. When you need a couple of big saves, your goalkeeper needs to do it as well. Everybody contributed to what is a well-earned point.”
Clarke hailed the contribution of debutant defender Nicky Devlin, who replaced Anthony Ralston in the closing stages and made a goal-saving block to deny Rafael Leao a late winner.
“It was a brilliant block,” continued Clarke. “First cap for Nicky. A moment to remember. Basically, he got his point with that block. He was brave. I had no doubt over putting Nicky into the game. He’s trained really well. He’s fitted into the group. He’s got a good experience.
“He’s 30 years of age and he’s still got games under his belt. I knew when Tony was ready to come off that Nicky would be fine, and he was.”
Nicky Devlin made a huge block in the dying stages. | SNS Group
The defence of Anthony Ralston, John Souttar, Grant Hanley and Andy Robertson as a whole received praise from Clarke, while the midfielders in front of the back four gave his side more protection. “Recently we’ve had one or two little lapses in certain moments in the game that cost you dear against this type of team,” said Clarke. “Tonight, maybe a time we got a little bit fortunate, but nobody can deny us the fortune now because we’ve worked ever so hard to get that little break.”
Goalkeeper Gordon, winning his 77th cap, made an excellent late save to deny Bruno Fernandes. “When they did create the big, big chance, Craig made the save, which is the first time in a long time I’ve celebrated a goalkeeper’s save,” smiled Clarke.
“I was trying to talk to John [Carver, assistant coach] and actually celebrated it. So it meant a lot to me and it meant a lot to everybody in the stadium because that’s what gets you the point. We spoke before the game about doing all the dirty stuff, the hard work, the ugly stuff if you like and the boys did that fantastically.”
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez was disappointed to leave Hampden with only a point, but paid tribute to Scotland’s resoluteness in shutting out his team.
Craig Gordon made a key save from Bruno Fernandes. | SNS Group
“We did lack freshness,” admitted Martinez. “We controlled the game, we reached the last third many times. I’d like to give credit to Scotland. Five of our shots were blocked. Their goalkeeper had a good game. Steve Clarke is building a national team like a club. Scottish players playing abroad is very good. Steve Clarke is doing a great job.”
Martinez was also quizzed on the pitch invader that made a beeline towards Ronaldo towards the end of the match. “Unfortunately it happens too many times,” Martinez added. “We understand he’s an iconic figure but when you have someone running on to the pitch with maybe the wrong intentions, it is a worry.”
‘Special’ Arsenal Star Wants Leave to Join Celtic in 2025
Forgotten Arsenal star Kieran Tierney wants to leave the club in the January transfer window and has made a return to Celtic a priority, according to TBR Football.
The Scotland international spent last season on loan at Real Sociedad in Spain and was set to exit the Emirates during the most recent summer transfer window before suffering a serious hamstring injury, which has seen him fail to make a matchday squad in any competition up to this point for the Gunners this season.
But as Tierney closes in on a return to fitness, he has set his sights on playing regular football in the new year after falling way down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta in recent times.
Tierney Wants Celtic Return
Scot came through the academy before moving to Arsenal
Now 27, Tierney came through at Celtic Park as a youngster and immediately established himself as the starting left-back in the squad. Across four full seasons with the club he managed 170 appearances in all competitions for the Bhoys, scoring eight goals and winning an incredible eight trophies including four league titles.
Those performances earned him a £25million move to the Emirates with Arsenal and he enjoyed a great spell, but injuries became a major issue for him and he was replaced ultimately by Oleksandr Zinchenko. Since then Arteta has also added Takehiro Tomiyasu, Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori who can all play at left-back and Tierney is now firmly out of the plans of the first-team.
According to the report, the north London outfit are open to allowing Tierney to leave at the earliest opportunity and a move to Celtic is something that was discussed during the summer before his injury. Tierney would prioritise a move to Parkhead over any other, and both parties could look at a loan deal. Arsenal would be open to a loan, and would also be open to including a buy-clause in the deal to see him move permanently in the summer.
Kieran Tierney Career Stats
Team
Appearances
Celtic (2014-2019)
170
Arsenal (2019-present)
124
Real Sociedad (2023/24)
26
Tierney, who Arteta has previously described as “special”, has previously worked under Brendan Rodgers during their previous spells with Celtic and that relationship could be key in getting a deal over the line.
Schmeichel Drops Stinker on International Duty
Goalkeeper gets 2 rating in defeat to Spain
While Celtic have had a near perfect start to their Scottish Premiership title defence this season, with seven wins from seven games and just one goal conceded, goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel hasn’t had the best of international breaks.
The veteran goalkeeper was representing Denmark once again as they faced off against the European champions Spain recently, where the team’s defensive performance saw them keep the Spanish out for a long time.
However, Schmeichel failed to deal with a free-kick that saw the only goal of the game scored, and the national media of Denmark were quick to criticise the former Leicester star, handing him a 2/10 rating for his role in the result.
Watch: Ronaldo Gives Anthony Ralston Frosty Full Time Reception
Scotland managed to pull off a hard-earned 0-0 draw against Portugal at Hampden on Tuesday evening, frustrating Cristiano Ronaldo and his star-studded teammates. On a cold Glasgow night, the Scots were resolute, stifling the Portuguese attack and standing firm in front of their home crowd.
Among the players to step up for Scotland was Celtic’s Anthony Ralston. The Hoops’ backup right-back has seen limited action this season under Brendan Rodgers but answered the call for his country when needed. Ralston played until the 89th minute before being subbed off.
Cristiano Ronaldo clearly in awe of Tony Ralston at full-time & signals there’s no way of getting past ‘the brickie’ pic.twitter.com/Gt64mSLlaX
— Euan Booth Robertson (@EuanBRobertson) October 15, 2024
Ronaldo, clearly fuming with the result and some refereeing decisions, showed his frustration at full time. Ralston, like most of his teammates, approached the Portugal players for the traditional post-match handshakes.
The Celtic defender extended his hand towards Ronaldo, only to be met with a frosty reception. After a brief delay, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner gave Ralston the faintest of handshakes,m, before storming off to continue his complaints with the officials.
Ralston, unfazed, did his job and will no doubt be pleased with Scotland’s result. As the international break winds down, Celtic fans can finally turn their attention back to club football.
This weekend sees the Hoops return to domestic action, with Aberdeen visiting Celtic Park. Ralston will likely start on the bench for Celtic if Alistair Johnston is back to full fitness.
Explosive Celtic ‘bust-up’ claim emerges as Hoops hero shares what he’s heard from those around Parkhead
A Celtic claim has been made by a club hero.
Celtic hero Frank McAvennie has claimed he’s heard about a Celtic bust-up between Brendan Rodgers and Greg Taylor.
The Scotland international is the undisputed number one left-back at the Hoops, with Barcelona loanee Alex Valle the latest challenger to his position. A calf injury was reportedly picked up in the Champions League agaisnt Borussia Dortmund.
Valle has shown flashes of potential when stepping in for Taylor but now ex-striker McAvennie suggests there may have been a disagreement of sorts between the boss and his defender. He claims to have heard from people around Celtic that a falling out may have occurred.
McAvennie told Football Insider: “I like him (Valle), he’s got some great touches. He likes to defend, I’m all for my left-back wanting to defend, I think he’s going to be good, I think he’s going to give Greg Taylor a run for his money that’s for sure.
“You hear Greg Taylor is injured or you hear he’s fallen out with the manager, there is all sorts of rumours going about a bust-up, that’s what I am hearing from people around the club.
“But at the moment, the boy has come in and he’s not done anything wrong, and Greg will know whether he’s injured or whether he’s fallen out with the manager, he will have to fight to get back in. And that’s competition, it’s good for the team.”
Next up for Celtic is a crucial Premiership clash with Aberdeen. Both clubs have won each of their seven league matches this season.
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
Dear all
A short post to confirm that this site, Celtic By Numbers, hosted on WordPress, will soon be no more.
Thank you for visiting over the last eight years as I have hopefully developed my writing on Celtic and provided you with some insight into the performance of Celtic players, team, managers, and opposition, not to mention the referees!
I am starting a new metaphorical and physical chapter by incorporating the Celtic By Numbers “brand” (bleurgh) into the wider The Huddle Breakdown platform.
If you would like to continue to read my musings, please come over to Substack, to The Huddle Breakdown, and provide your email to subscribe.
This will be a far more immersive experience.
As well as written content by myself and @jucojames incorporating Celtic By Number articles, player benchmarking reports, every match stat pack, evergreen specials and more, there are the twice-weekly Huddle Breakdown and Extra Time podcasts.
Even more importantly, there are the Chat functions to enable the growth of the spreadsheet shagger community!
This level of platform, podcast production and content does not come without cost so we will be moving to a subscription model. Heh, we’re worth it!
In summary, here are the tiers.
NOTE: Tier One will be FREE as there is no facility for “pay what you want”.
And so, this site nears the end of days but the future is looking very green and white and huddly.
I hope you have enjoyed what you have read here and ALL the articles are now migrated on the new Substack platform.
Thanks again for your support and see you on t’other side! x
Kieran Tierney has decided whether he wants to leave Arsenal to head back to Celtic
After joining Arsenal from Celtic back in 2019, it seems as if Kieran Tierney’s chapter in north London is finally coming to a close.
Tierney swapped Celtic Park for the Emirates Stadium at a time when his career was really taking off, deciding that Arsenal was the right next step.
And although the former Celtic favourite enjoyed a productive start in N5, he suffered a series of injuries during the 2020/21 campaign that really halted his progress.
Before his position in the squad worsened, it looked to all that Tierney would go on to captain Arsenal one day, a brilliant professional who led by example on the pitch.
However, once Mikel Arteta welcomed Oleksandr Zinchenko to the club, Tierney was essentially rendered surplus to requirements – he no longer suited the club’s plans.
That being said, TBR Football understands that Tierney is ready to move back to Celtic.
Kieran Tierney keen to leave Arsenal for Brendan Rodgers reunion at Celtic
Given the reasons listed, Arsenal are ready to let Tierney leave and Celtic are also keen to bring the Scotland international back to the club.
Tierney currently has 18-months left on his Arsenal deal and was understood to be in talks over a move back to Parkhead in the summer before a serious hamstring injury curtailed that.
READ MORE: Jurgen Klopp could play a key role in whether Arsenal sign their dream striker next summer
The left-back suffered the injury whilst playing for Scotland at the Euros, and is still yet to return.
Tierney has been training individually recently, but it is expected that he will be properly back in time for January, at which point he can seek a move.
Arsenal are ready to let the Scot leave on loan and that is a deal that would interest Celtic.
Long-term, Arsenal would be open to a deal that would make it possible for Celtic to complete a permanent move.
And as stated, sources believe that Tierney has made a move back to Glasgow his priority.
Rodgers refused to rule out Tierney returning to Celtic
Interestingly, Brendan Rodgers, who Tierney enjoyed working with before at Celtic, said ‘you never know’ when discussing a possible return for the full-back last year.
Rodgers alluded to the fact that Celtic wouldn’t be able to pay an enormous fee to Arsenal, and his words perhaps suit the kind of arrangement listed above.
Rodgers said: “When I spoke to him down the road in the Premier League, every time we met up all we talked about was Celtic. He’s a Celtic man but he’s at a fantastic club in Arsenal.
“You can just never say never in football. Who knows what might happen? We wouldn’t be able to buy Kieran for £25-£30m, that’s for sure, or the figures I see banded about.
“I’m pretty sure we wouldn’t be able to pay the huge salary he’s on. However, one can never tell. Kieran has an incredible history with the club. He was a massive part of my time here, so there will always be that link. You never know.”
‘Huge bonus to nation’: Scotland star lifts lid on step into unknown
Striker enjoying challenges of playing with Torino
Che Adams took a step into the unknown this summer when he traded in the comfort zone of British football for Italy’s Serie A – but he is reaping the rewards of it.
Adams signed for Torino following the expiration of his contract with newly-promoted Premier League side Southampton. For a player who had spent his whole senior career in England, upping sticks at the age of 28 was a bold move.
Of course, he is following in the footsteps of some fellow Scotland players. Lewis Ferguson has excelled at Bologna, where Aaron Hickey also plied his trade. Josh Doig is with Sassuolo. And since going to Turin, Adams has been joined in Italian football by Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour following their big-money deadline-day transfers to Napoli.
Che Adams still has full belief in Scotland.
All this is viewed through a positive prism by Adams. “I think it just opens up your mind to experiencing different levels and different competitions,” the striker said. “I think that can help the nation because we’ve got a few boys now that are playing abroad. We’re coming together now and bringing different ideas and different styles of play. Things like that.
“I think it’s a huge bonus to the nation. What I’ve learned from moving abroad is it just makes you grow as a person as well, in terms of off the pitch, taking that challenge and being uncomfortable. I think that will only help you in life and in football.”
Adams has netted four times for Torino, who currently sit seventh in Serie A following a decent start to the season. They normally play a 3-5-2 formation, but the ex-Birmingham City hitman does see similarities between Il Toro and the Scotland national team.
“I think they like to play the ball forwards quickly,” Adams said of Torino’s approach. “That obviously gives the strikers and the forward players enough chances to create and score goals. I think between Scotland and Torino where I’m at, it’s just the mentality in terms of not giving up anything easy and being hard to play against.
“I think that goes well in Italy because everything is so tactical and so defensively set up. I think the two go well together.”
Che Adams has scored four times for Torino this season. | Getty Images
Club football takes a back seat for a few more days, though. Adams is desperate to end Scotland’s poor run. The striker has not scored at Hampden for nearly three years – and netting in Tuesday night’s match against Portugal would be an opportune moment to end the malaise of one win in 15 matches. He came very close to forcing a late equaliser against Croatia on Saturday, only to be denied by VAR for offside.
“I think we’ve got a good enough group now to acknowledge when things are going bad and to put a positive spin on things,” said Adams. “So, the dressing room has been OK. We’re just looking forward to now to putting things right tomorrow.
“We’re working on things day in and day out to produce positive results. I think the games have been really positive. We’ve not got the rub of green, in some cases, like my one yard offside the other day.
“Things like that, small margins, just impact your whole mentality a lot. So tomorrow is another chance to come up against one of the best nations in the world, some would say, so we’re looking forward to that.”
How Celtic’s loanees are faring so far this season amid mission to impress Brendan Rodgers
Celtic have several players out on loan looking to showcase their abilities with Brendan Rodgers bound to have one eye on their progress amid his side’s excellent start to the campaign.
While a Celtic first-team squad rich in competition vie for minutes over the coming months, those away from the Bhoys’ spotlight will be determined to prove they can step up to the task in the future.
The loan market has been a beneficial vessel for the club, forging the development of key stars such as Ryan Christie and Kristoffer Ajer over the past few years.
Admittedly, not all temporary switches away from Celtic amount to that, but there is always the potential to increase value before selling players that are deemed surplus to requirements in Glasgow.
Either way, it is always worth keeping an eye on those plying their trade elsewhere that are still tied to the Bhoys via contract.
How Celtic’s loanees are faring this campaign
Making a journey along the M8, Hyeokkyu Kwon has made a quietly impressive Hibernian start. Manager David Gray has complemented the midfielder, stating he is ‘getting better all the time’ while at Easter Road.
Completing five starts since his move to the Edinburgh-based side, there are clear signs that the former Busan iPark man is kicking on after his spell at St Mirren last season. Data provided via Fotmob shows he has won 24 duels this campaign, alongside maintaining a pass accuracy rate of 83.7%.
Despite his only outings for Celtic coming in friendlies, Kwon has found a stable footing in Scottish football and may be one to watch as the weeks go on. Unfortunately, in contrast, a colleague of last season, Gustaf Lagerbielke, is still awaiting his breakthrough at Twente.
The Sweden international has featured twice off the bench across the Eredivisie and Europa League, where he played a cameo role in Jooseph Oosting’s men claiming a draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Other than that, 45 minutes at home to NAC Breda off the bench, where he helped to keep a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory, has been his only other contribution, with Mees Hilgers and Max Bruns seemingly the favoured centre-back pairing.
Frustratingly, bad luck with injuries have influenced Marco Tilio at Melbourne City. Having barely had the chance to introduce himself at Celtic, the start of the A-League Men campaign this weekend can hopefully provide him with some better luck.
𝐅𝐓 | City 3-1 Auckland FC
A clinical performance from the boys today in our second preseason friendly 👏
⚽️ Nabbout, Memeti, Talbot.
🪄 Marco Tilio was on fire with two assists, while Andreas Kuen assisted the opener. pic.twitter.com/7SBdxTuyrv
— Melbourne City FC (@MelbourneCity) September 21, 2024
Tilio impressed with two assists in pre-season a couple of weeks ago against Auckland, illustrating that he may be on the road to recovery.
Hopefully, the £1.5 million Celtic signing can stay fit following a run of fitness issues that have stalled his progress in recent times.
Johnny Kenny’s goals and Alexandro Bernabei’s progress
Celtic striker Johnny Kenny has taken his tally at Shamrock Rovers to 12 goals and three assists in 31 outings, albeit he hasn’t scored in the League of Ireland since mid-way through last month.
With his contract set to run until 2026, it remains to be seen if a future could be found for him in Glasgow. Brendan Rodgers will be impressed by his countryman, but there has been no confirmation of the plan for the Republic of Ireland Under-21 international once he returns to Lennoxtown.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s winless record in Glasgow after Celtic misfires
GLASGOW, UNITED KINGDOM – NOVEMBER 05: Cristiano Ronaldo of Manchester United in action during the UEFA Champions League Group E match between Celtic and Manchester United at Parkhead on November 5, 2008 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Cristiano Ronaldo is in Glasgow ahead of Scotland’s Nations League game against Portugal. The 39-year-old will likely feature at Hampden as Steve Clarke’s side look to get their first points against the Euro 2016 winners.
With Ronaldo, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, back in the city, it is worth looking back at his last appearance in Glasgow – against Celtic. The striker was not part of Portugal’s squad for their 2018 friendly win at Hampden.
Ronaldo was part of Sir Alex Ferguson’s United teams that arrived in Glasgow’s East End in the Group Stages of the UEFA Champions League twice in three years.
Gordon Strachan had the better over his former boss in 2006 when Shunsuke Nakamura’s incredible freekick helped the Celts beat the visitors from Manchester. The former Sporting Lisbon star, who would go on to win the trophy five times, was on the losing side that evening.
21st November 2006, Celtic 1:0 Man Utd.
Nakamura and Boruc the heroes to send Celtic into the last 16 of the Champions League.
— Li’l Ze (@LilZe_7) November 21, 2020
However, there was to be no repeat of the win as Scott McDonald’s audacious chip was cancelled out by Ryan Giggs’ second half header.
⏪ Cristiano Ronaldo in unstoppable form back in 2008…
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) July 14, 2022
Ronaldo was the top goalscorer from the old format of the Champions League Group Stages but he was unable to score against Celtic on both evenings. It was incredible watching the Portuguese attacker in full flow during the warmup, playing diagonal passes with Wayne Rooney before kickoff.
Despite his age, the forward has shown he is still as capable in front of goal as his winner in Lisbon last month proved. Clarke will look to frustrate Portugal and hope that Roberto Martinez is reluctant to bring the star onto the pitch.
Chris Sutton warns Aberdeen could split Celtic & Rangers
Chris Sutton (Image: Craig Foy – SNS Group)
Chris Sutton has talked up the chances of Celtic and Rangers being split in the top two of the Scottish Premiership this season.
Aberdeen have made a flying start to the campaign, winning 13 out of 13 games under new head coach Jimmy Thelin.
Both the Hoops and Dons sit level on 21 points, but face each other this weekend in a huge match in Glasgow’s east end.
Brendan Rodgers and his players will be looking to meet the challenge from the Pittodrie side head on, as they look to put down a marker and go clear as outright league leaders come Saturday dinner time.
Philippe Clement’s men trail both of their rivals by five points at this early juncture, and they face a tough trip to Rugby Park on Sunday – a ground they’ve struggled at plenty of times in the recent past.
Aberdeen’s form, and Rangers’ lack of consistency, led to Chris Sutton being asked on the Daily Mail’s ‘It’s all Kicking Off podcast’: What needs to be done in Scotland to see teams outside the top two to compete for the title?
He responded: “Is Shiv going to include England in that as well with Manchester City being the dominant force?
“But I think Aberdeen have won every game and so have Celtic this season. So there is a team. He was talking about Celtic and Rangers. The top two.
“There is a possibility Aberdeen could split Celtic and Rangers this season.”
The last team to split Glasgow’s big two was George Burley’s Hearts nearly 20 years ago.
‘You Can’t Catch Me’ – Charlie Mulgrew Shares Hilarious Story About Kyogo’s Antics Against Dundee
Former Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew has revealed a brilliant story about current Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi, shedding light on the Japanese star’s cheeky on-field persona.
Known for his prolific goal-scoring and constant smile, Kyogo often comes across as a humble and joyful figure. However, Mulgrew’s anecdote from a clash against Dundee shows that the Hoops frontman knows how to wind up his opponents with a bit of banter as well.
26th December 2023; Dens Park, Dundee, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Dundee versus Celtic; Paulo Bernardo of Celtic celebrates with his team mates after he shoots and scores to make it 1-0 in the 52nd minute
Speaking on a podcast, Mulgrew recalled a story he had heard about the striker during a match where Kyogo got the better of a Dundee defender after a bit of back-and-forth throughout the game. Mulgrew explained: “This story when he played against Dundee. One of Dundee’s players were back and forth all day, pulling each other, and then Kyogo scored.”
The punchline came after Kyogo found the back of the net. Mulgrew revealed: “If you go back and watch it on YouTube, you’ll see Kyogo gets in his face after he scored. Do you know what he says to him? ‘You can’t catch me!’ I swear to God. He definitely chases Pokémons in the West End. Story confirmed.”
The anecdote paints a playful picture of Kyogo, who clearly isn’t afraid to give it back to defenders when he gets the chance.
His pace and ability to lose markers have made him a nightmare for defenders in the Premiership, and this story is just another example of the fun he seems to have on the pitch.
Kyogo escapes Celtic bubble as Japan snub allows down time with a difference ahead of hectic schedule
The Hoops striker took advantage of some down time before another hectic period for Brendan Rodgers’ side
Celtic star Kyogo
Kyogo Furuhashi once again missed out on travelling to the other side of the globe with Japan during this international break.
But while Celtic colleagues Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate represent the national team, Brendan Rodgers’ star striker has gone on an adventure of his own. He’s using the chance of a rare mid-season break to enjoy some downtime with a difference, ahead of what will be another busy schedule for the Scottish champions between the return to action in a top of the table clash with Aberdeen on Saturday and the next scheduled international fixture card in November.
Most footballers jet off to the likes of Ibiza or Dubai to soak up the party atmosphere and the sunshine when they get the chance but Kyogo has been taking in the sights of Iona. The tiny Scottish island found off the southwest coast of Mull in the Inner Hebrides only has a population of around 170 permanent residents. The island itself is just 1.5 miles wide by 3 miles long.
The sight of Celtic’s star man stunned punters and he posed for snaps with a group of young Hoops fans on his way back from his adventure in Fionnphort, Isle of Mull, reports the Scottish Sun. It was a moment to remember for the youngsters with their dad Robert Allan revealing the 29-year-old also signed a top for the children as he opened up on the surreal chance meeting. He told the same publication: “We don’t get many big-name footballers on the island so It was amazing for the kids to meet Kyogo yesterday, and fantastic that he took the time to take photos and sign a Celtic top for them, especially as he’s their favourite player.”
Rodgers will be desperate to get through the remaining international fixtures unscathed ahead of what could prove a vital three weeks for his side. They face SEVEN games in that period across three major competitions. It all kicks off with Jimmy Thelin’s men at Parkhead with both sides boasting 100 per cent records going into the Scottish Premiership showdown.
Celtic also face two Champions League fixtures in the next block with a trip to Atalanta and home clash with RB Leipzig on the schedule. They also have the small matter of facing the Dons at Hampden in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final alongside further league outings against Motherwell, Dundee and Kilmarnock.
Jeremie Frimpong and the healthy transfer figure Celtic could rake in as Euro heavyweights show interest
Jeremie Frimpong was an unheralded talent before Neil Lennon brought him to Celtic and gave him the game time he needed to make an impression on the football world.
Frimpong ended up making 51 appearances for the club before leaving to join Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga in 2021.
His Celtic stay was short and sweet, but it’s clear his decision to leave has paid off for him personally.
Now 23, Frimpong is a Netherlands international, was part of Leverkusen’s unbelievable invincible side last season and has even been recently named as one of the top 100 players in the entire world.
He’s a hyped talent and regularly attracts transfer headlines. A big move, perhaps the biggest possible, is in the offing.
Real Madrid ‘like’ Jeremie Frimpong
The Athletic reported over the weekend that Real Madrid are admirers of the former Celtic right-back. He’s been tipped as one of the five possible long-term replacements for Dani Carvajal.
With a €40million release clause in the contract he signed with Leverkusen last year, Frimpong is said to find the idea of playing in La Liga attractive.
A deal is possible. Not only would it bring Frimpong’s fame and profile to new levels, but a big money move would also pay off for Celtic.
Celtic have a significant sell-on percentage on any Frimpong deal
Celtic sold Frimpong to Leverkusen for £11.5m.
67 Hail Hail understands around 15 percent is due on any profit the German side make on a subsequent transfer.
A club purchasing at €40m, Frimpong’s release price, means Leverkusen would earn around a £22m profit on his departure.
With 15 percent of that totalling around £3.3m, Celtic could be coming away with a healthy payday from Frimpong’s future transfer.
Seeing Frimpong hit the heights of elite football would be pleasing enough, but if it brings significant benefits to the Scottish champions, let’s hope it’s a move that happens sooner rather than later.
LSL Senior Sunday: Bluebell United and Usher Celtic claim important wins as UCD fight back to draw with champions Lucan United
Bluebell United stunned Leinster Senior Cup finalists St Mochta’s on Sunday afternoon in the Red Cow with a thumping 3-0 win.
Brian McCarthy’s men turned in a spirited performance against St Patrick’s Athletic in the Leinster Senior Cup final last week – though they were unable to carry that back into the league.
And it was a day to forget for them with midfielder Aaron Robinson sent off late on.
Nathan Benson gave Bell a 23rd minute lead before they doubled their advantage on the stroke of half-time via Moldovan Alexandr Leu.
Former Glenavon striker Josh Doyle rounded off the win in the second half as Bluebell recovered from last Wednesday’s 1-0 loss away to St Francis.
FULL – TIME |
Defeat away from home.
— St. Mochta’s FC (@stmochtasfc) October 13, 2024
Meanwhile, Usher Celtic’s impressive start to life in the top-flight continued with a 3-2 triumph over Maynooth Town.
A hat-trick from Graham Curran got them over the line despite goals from Maynooth pair Lewis McKeon and Paddy O’Sullivan.
Usher are now second in the table with Maynooth 12th and in the relegation zone.
Usher Celtic 3 Curran x3 maynooth 1
— andrew Douglas (@AndrewD40012693) October 11, 2024
Leaders Kilbarrack United were also held to a 1-1 draw at home to Malahide United as Rob Dunne’s penalty salvaged them a point after Jake O’Connor handed Malahide the lead.
Elsewhere, Lucan United let a two-goal lead slip at home to UCD in a 3-3 thriller at Westmanstown.
Jamie Doyle’s first-half hat trick looked as though it would claim an important win for Keith Baker’s side.
Though a second half surge with Andreas Djurhuus and Rob Garvey scoring meant the Sky Blues picked up a point after Brian Mulcahy scored in the opening period.
FULL TIME | @lslleague
SeniorA brilliant result on the road against the reigning champions as UCD show their grit to twice come from behind away to Lucan
— UCD FC (@UCDAFC) October 11, 2024
There were also two scoreless draws over the weekend’s action in ties between Killester Donnycarney and Wayside Celtic, plus Tolka Rovers and Glebe North. Glebe are still searching for their first win of the season.
Meanwhile, Bangor Celtic drew 1-1 at home with St Francis as Jack O’Connor cancelled out Bangor Celtic’s opener through Ogi Lovic.
FT Result |@LSLLeague Senior Sunday @Bcfc_1987 1-1 St Francis FC
Honours even this morning in a really tough battle . Bangor the better team in the 1st half & we were the better team in the 2nd half . A draw the right result
— St Francis FC Seniors (@SeniorsSt) October 13, 2024
Celtic on this Day – Lubo Moravcik scored his finest Celtic goal, watch the video
Celtic on this Day – Lubo Moravcik scored a stunning bar-and-in free-kick at Motherwell, possibly his finest goal for Celtic. Photo The Celtic Wiki
Celtic on this Day – Lubo Moravcik scored a stunning bar-and-in free-kick at Motherwell, possibly his finest goal for Celtic…
23 years ago today, Motherwell 1-2 Celtic. Fondly remembered for Lubo Moravcik’s stunning bar-and-in free-kick which out of all his stunning goals for the Hoops, could be his best. Celtic fortuitously grabbed the three points as Henrik Larsson buried a late-penalty past Mark Brown in the Motherwell goal. Henrik had missed three of his last four penalties in the league prior to taking his spot-kick at Fir Park.
scored a stunning bar-and-in free-kick at Motherwell, possibly his finest goal for Celtic. Photo The Celtic Wiki
A Celtic debut for he who must not be named
Frank McGarvey in action for Celtic v Hibs on 13 October 1984 as Jackie McNamara looks on. Photo The Celtic Wiki
13 October 1984, Celtic 3-0 Hibs. The scoreline flattered Davie Hay’s side. Remarkably, the game was all square with 18 minutes to play. Judas made his debut after signing for a record fee of £400,000 from Watford. It took a penalty from Peter Grant to break the deadlock which was soon followed up by Tommy Burns and then Brian McClair shortly after to seal the points. After a trophyless 1983/1984 campaign, Celtic made it 10 matches unbeaten at the beginning of the 84/85 season.
Anton Rogan and Paul McStay tackle McCall of Dunfermline, 13 October 1990. Photo The Celtic Wiki
Billy McNeill’s side
34 years ago today, Celtic were held to a 1-1 draw with Dunfermline at East End Park. Despite Paul McStay netting a dramatic last-minute equaliser, it was the least that Billy McNeill’s side deserved. Andy Rhodes in the Pars goal was unbeatable up until the death producing countless world-class saves to deny a desperate Celtic team in much need of a victory.
Mark Viduka, Ayre v Celtic, 13 October 1999. Photo The Celtic Wiki
Celtic at Somerset Park the time before last
13 October 1999, Ayr United 0-4 Celtic. The Scottish League Cup 3rd round tie was Celtic’s first contested fixture in two weeks because of the international break for EURO 2000 qualification. Hoops manager John Barnes paid a visit to France the night before to watch UEFA Cup opponents Lyon beat Nantes 2-0 at Parc Olympique Lyonnais. Barnes rested first-team regulars against The Honest Men such as Larsson, Lambert and Petrov. All four strikes came in the second half thanks to Viduka, Blinker, Mjallby and Petta. The Celtic side 25 years to the day was; Gould, Riseth, Mjallby, McNamara, Tebily, Stubbs, Burchill, Burley, Blinker, Moravcik, Viduka.
Conor Spence
With great anticipation for Matt Corr’s book release next month, here’s a tribute to The Bhoys of the 1930’s ☘️
Matt’s book – Celtic in The Thirties can be pre-ordered on the Celtic Star Books website. pic.twitter.com/kHzexXCQ4g
— Celtic Curio (@Celticcurio) October 13, 2024
Sunday Night Update: Celtic Semi Final Tickets
Celtic fans who missed out in the first round of ticket allocations for the Scottish League Cup semi-final against Aberdeen could soon have another chance to secure a seat at Hampden.
The club initially received an allocation of 27,300 tickets—just over half of the available briefs—for the clash with the Dons. Given the high demand, tickets were balloted among fans in the Home Cup Ticket Scheme. As expected, Celtic sold out their allocation quickly, leaving many fans disappointed and without a ticket.
Aberdeen were given a larger allocation than the 12,000 they’ve sold so far, but they’ve struggled to shift their full share of tickets. Currently, looking at Aberdeen’s ticketing app, the B4-B8 sections of Hampden are greyed out, meaning they’re not available for sale right now. These areas are typically reserved in case demand from Aberdeen fans spikes, but as things stand, there’s little indication that will happen.
Unless there’s a sudden surge in demand from Dons supporters, it’s looking increasingly likely that these sections will be handed over to Celtic. This could give those fans who missed out in the initial ballot another opportunity to grab a ticket.
For now, it’s a waiting game, but the chances of more tickets being made available to Celtic supporters seem promising. If Aberdeen fail to sell out their allocation, expect an announcement from the club soon offering a second bite at the cherry for the Hoops faithful. Keep an eye on official channels for any updates.
20th April 2024; Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland: Scottish Cup Football Semi Final, Aberdeen versus Celtic;
Before the two sides meet at Hampden in November for the League Cup semi-final, they’ll face off at Celtic Park this Saturday. Both Celtic and Aberdeen will be eager to secure a crucial victory, with three points on the line that could send either club clear at the top of the Premiership table.
Raging Elena Sadiku explodes at Celtic and tells players ‘that’s the WORST performance I’ve seen’
Sadiku pulled no punches after her side lost 1-0 to Hearts
Raging Elena Sadiku claimed it was the “worst performance” she has seen from Celtic after her side lost 1-0 to Hearts – and warned that she won’t stand for it happening again.
The defeat pushes Hearts into third spot but leaves Celtic six points off of top-of-the-table Rangers and five behind second placed Glasgow City. The top two drew 1-1 at Ibrox on Saturday afternoon. And furious Sadiku insisted she had no idea why the performance was so poor from her side.
Celtic lost their opening Champions League game to FC Twente last Tuesday night and now have to rally ahead of a daunting challenge against Real Madrid in Spain on Thursday. Kayla Jardine’s first-half effort took a deflection off of Maria McAneny before beating Kelsey Daughterty.
Sadiku rang the changes at the interval and there was more purpose about Celtic but Hearts held firm to take all three points. “The first half is the worst performance I have seen,” said Sadiku. “It was not Celtic at all. There was no energy, no confidence.
“I don’t know why. That is something that got fixed in the second better where it was much better. There was only one team on the pitch and we created enough chances to win the game but unfortunately it was not to be.
“It is not good enough. I am just happy that we have players coming back who have energy like Amy Gallacher and Lucy Ashworth-Clifford, important players for us. I am very disappointed but we need to learn from this and make sure it never happens again – I will make sure it never happens again.”
Hearts have been keen to close the gap on the top three and this result will be seen as vital in their quest to do that. Fourth placed Hibs comfortably dismissed Spartans with a 4-0 win. Eilidh Adams claimed a hat-trick with Michaela McAlonie chipping in as they moved within two points of Hearts.
Motherwell continued their impressive start to the season with 4-1 win of bottom side Dundee United, who are still without a top flight win. Laura Berry opened for the Fir Park side but Amy Robertson levelled. Louisa Boyes put the hosts back in front and before Chelsie Watson goal made it 3-1.
Celtic Warned About ‘Relentless’ Atalanta By Former Attacker
Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
Former top-flight striker James McFadden is clear that Celtic will need to be at their very best when they face Atalanta at the end of this month.
The Bhoys have absolutely been flying in their domestic league and they also started their Champions League campaign with a 5-1 win against Slovan Bratislava.
Last time out in Europe though, Brendan Rodgers’ men were demolished 7-1 by German giants Borussia Dortmund and their next opponents in Europe are Europa League holders Atalanta.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s side held Premier League giants Arsenal to a 0-0 scoreline in Italy last month.
McFadden insists that against the Italian side the match will be very different as Atalanta structure their pressing man-for-man.
He has issued a warning to Celtic and stressed the Bhoys need to be playing a lot better against a relentless Atalanta.
“Atalanta will be a totally different test. They are so aggressive in their press, they go man-for-man”, McFadden said on BBC Sporstsound about Celtic’s clash against La Dea.
“Celtic will have to be so much better.
“Atalanta will be relentless.”
Celtic have always received criticism for being inefficient in European competition and they will look to break the narrative when they travel to the Gewiss Stadium to face Atalanta on 23rd October.
Unseen Luke McCowan advice from Celtic legend revealed as 2 key messages issued to boyhood fan
The Hoops boyhood fan is living the dream after swapping Dundee for Brendan Rodgers’ men at the end of the summer window
Luke McCowan ahead of Celtic game
Stiliyan Petrov has revealed the two key messaged of advice he gave to Luke McCowan.
The boyhood Celtic fan is living the dream after earning a move to Brendan Rodgers’ side from Dundee at the end of the summer transfer window. His impressive form in Dark Blue had the champions shell out £1million for his services. He’s already netted his first goal in the hoops against Hearts while he got his first taste of the derby with Rangers in a 3-0 win back in September. He’s also been on the bench in the two Champions League games to date – although he’s yet to tick that big moment off his bucket list.
Following his switch to Parkhead, McCowan quickly grabbed the love of the Celtic support after his perfect one liner reaction to walking out at the home of champions for the first time. It’s been a whirlwind for the midfielder, who hasn’t looked back and will be hoping to force his way into a talented midfield. Callum McGregor, Arne Engels, Reo Hatate and Paulo Bernardo are all battling it out with the 26-year-old for the starting roles in the engine room.
McCowan is clearly loving life and Celtic hero Petrov has opened up on meeting the midfielder. He has impressed with his ‘wonderful ability’ and he’s one that will no doubt be an ‘asset to the team’ as they challenge across all competitions both domestically and on the European stage.
Speaking in the Sunday Post, Petrov said: “Luke just seems to smile every single minute. We can all see how happy he is to be playing for Celtic. He has made significant contributions on the park and has already scored for Celtic. He is heading in the right direction.
“I had the pleasure of meeting him a few weeks ago and he was buzzing. I told him to enjoy these special times and to relax. He has wonderful ability and he will be an asset to the team this season, for sure. It must be great for Brendan to have so many good options.”
Heart break: Two Celtic Contracts Set to Expire in 7 Months
As the January transfer window looms, two players—James Forrest and Greg Taylor — are set to enter the final six months of their contracts at Celtic. The club faces important decisions regarding their futures, and both players contribute in different ways, yet their situations are quite distinct.
James Forrest: A Celtic Stalwart
James Forrest is the epitome of loyalty at Celtic. Having spent his entire professional career with the Hoops, the winger has made over 500 appearances since breaking into the first team in 2010. Over the years, he’s racked up an impressive tally of trophies.
However, at 33, Forrest is now more of a squad player than a first-choice starter. He’s been called upon in matches to help the team where he can, featuring from the bench or in cup games. Despite this, his experience and versatility make him a valuable asset to the squad, especially during long campaigns when depth is key.
The question facing Celtic now is whether to offer Forrest an extension or allow him to seek pastures new. While the romantic notion of keeping a one-club man in the squad holds appeal, the club will need to weigh up whether Forrest’s declining playing time justifies a new deal.
Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – September 1, 2024 Celtic’s James Forrest arrives at the stadium before the match REUTERS/Russell Cheyne
Greg Taylor: Underappreciated, But Crucial
In stark contrast, Greg Taylor has become an integral part of the first team since signing from Kilmarnock in 2019. The left-back has often flown under the radar, but his consistent performances have made him a mainstay in Celtic’s defence for Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers
Taylor’s hard work and reliability have earned him praise from his teammates and coaching staff, yet he often goes underappreciated by some sections of the support. Despite this, the 26-year-old remains a crucial part of Brendan Rodgers’ plans. His ability to support attacks while remaining defensively sound has been key to Celtic’s success in recent seasons.
25th August 2024; St Mirren Park, Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland, Scottish Premiership Football, St Mirren versus Celtic; Greg Taylor of Celtic
However, with Taylor entering the final stretch of his current deal, there’s a risk that he might fancy a move elsewhere. At this stage of his career, he may seek a fresh challenge or a new league. Celtic will need to act swiftly to secure his future if they want to avoid losing one of their key contributors.
The Verdict: Keep Both or Prioritise Taylor?
When it comes to deciding the futures of both Forrest and Taylor, the club may need to make tough calls. While Forrest has been a loyal servant, his role in the squad is now more peripheral. Offering him a short-term extension could keep his experience in the dressing room, but it may be time for both parties to consider a future beyond Celtic Park.
On the other hand, Greg Taylor’s importance to the team cannot be overstated. He’s in his prime, and Celtic can ill afford to lose a first-team regular for nothing, especially in a position as crucial as left-back. Securing Taylor’s services for the long-term should be a priority for the club, as replacing him would likely cost significantly more than renewing his deal.
In short, while there’s a case for keeping both players, Celtic may ultimately need to prioritise Taylor, ensuring he stays put while allowing Forrest to explore other options. January will be a crucial month for the club as they navigate these contract situations.
Reo Hatate not having one Celtic theory as he gives honest thoughts on repeated Japan snub
The midfielder has failed to make an appearance for his country in their last three games
Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate has batted away concerns that he has travelled a whopping 17,608 miles within the last month for international duty – without kicking a ball for Japan.
Hatate was an unused substitute during SamuraI Blues’ World Cup qualifying win over Saudi Arabia in Jeddah as they ran out 2-0 winners and he will hope to finally make an appearance for his country when they play Australia on Tuesday. Should he be snubbed again, by the time he returns to Glasgow the 26-year-old will have flown over 5000 miles longer than the distance of football without being handed a minute of action by boss Hajime Moriyasu.
With the top of the Scottish Premiership clash with Aberdeen just around the corner, there have been concerns raised over the enormous distance that Hatate has covered without any action. But while watching the likes of Daizen Maeda from the sidelines, Hatate insists he is not frustrated by the actions of the international gaffer.
Speaking to the Japanese media at training before the clash with the Socceroos, the Celtic star said: “Being selected means that I’m being evaluated. First of all, I want to do my best for the team.”
With Japan in need of cover down the left and right side of defence, Hatate also offered himself to Moriyasu adding: “The way I move changes depending on the player I’m playing with. I think I can see the cooperation with the others where I am needed.”
Richard Dunne tells Kasper Schmeichel why he needs to be ‘very careful’ at Celtic
Kasper Schmeichel has enjoyed an excellent start to his Celtic career in the Scottish Premiership so far this season.
The big Dane has played seven games and conceded just one goal as Schmeichel helps Celtic remain unbeaten domestically this season.
However, it seems that when it comes to facing a better-quality opposition, Richard Dunne believes that the Celtic goalkeeper just doesn’t look the same.
Speaking prior to Schmeichel appearing in Denmark’s defeat to Spain, the Republic of Ireland legend Dunne says the Celtic goalkeeper is now doing something at Parkhead he never used to at his other clubs.
‘Amazing’ Kasper Schmeichel looks ‘sluggish’ at Celtic
Referring back to Celtic’s Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund, Dunne believes that Schmeichel is starting to slow down and at 37, has told the big Dane that there are now different aspects of his game he needs to focus on.
Dunne told Virgin Media Sport, “Kasper has been amazing. He’s had a fantastic career, and he’s played in some really big clubs. He’s won the Premier League, he’s won an FA Cup, he’s played in the Champions League, and now he’s come and found himself playing for Celtic to come in to replace Joe Hart.
“I think at 37 you need to be very careful. You need to keep that mobility and that agility and what Kasper has always done when he’s been in goal, he’s been reactive to saves.
“He’s really sharp on his line. And just going back to the Dortmund game that we watched a few weeks ago he wasn’t the sort of Kasper Schmeichel that we’ve been we’ve seen in previous years.
“He looked a little bit sluggish. Wasn’t as quick getting down to certain things and I think in the moment you look at it and you think are they huge mistakes or not? Probably not.
“But then the more you analyze it, and you get closer into it and look at it deeper, sometimes his position is not right. He’s not reading the shot correctly. He’s not reacting.”
Why Kasper Schmeichel had an off night for Celtic in Dortmund
At 37, Kasper Schmeichel is clearly coming to the end of his illustrious career and Dunne reckons that is why the Celtic stopper struggled against the elite strike force of Dortmund.
Dunne continued, “Obviously when you get older, you’re not as conditioned as you used to be. You can’t train as hard as you used to.
“And Kasper’s had a really good season. He’s done really well in the league. When you go and play in the Champions League it’s a level up, obviously, playing against Spain is a level up, and you’re playing against against better strikers and that.
“And he just looked a little bit sluggish, a little bit rusty. He didn’t look as sharp as he should be. He’s normally a player who, when he has the ball at his feet, you can trust but he was taking chances as were the whole Celtic team.
“I mean, it’s a different story with Denmark where they have a defence who’s organized, who’s structured, who defend deep.
“In that one game, Celtic weren’t great defensively. They were really poor and normally Kasper will get them out of a lot of trouble.
“And just on that evening, he didn’t and that’s why I just think at 37 years of age, you need to be at your sharpest, you need to try hard and you need to make sure everything’s perfect and he just didn’t look bang on it that night.”
Conceding seven goals in the Champions League is certainly not what Schmeichel is used to. The biggest defeat before that night in Dortmund was a 5-0 drubbing by Porto when Schmeichel was at his peak with Leicester.
Even with Denmark, the most the Celtic ‘keeper had conceded was four against the Netherlands in a 4-2 defeat back in 2022.
And whilst he won’t be on the end of a result like Dortmund’s domestically in Scotland, Atalanta awaits Celtic next week and Schmeichel will be keen to avoid a repeat of what he suffered at the hands of Nuri Sahin’s side.
Rangers and Celtic told one Premiership starlet they should ‘definitely’ be watching by ex-Ibrox star
Belgium’s Mandela Keita holds off Scotland’s Lennon Miller at Tynecastle. | SNS Group
The Motherwell midfielder and Scotland under-21 international was the subject of intense transfer speculation this summer.
Rangers and Celtic should be keeping close tabs on Motherwell starlet Lennon Miller because he is the type of player that both Old Firm clubs should be looking to recruit.
That’s the view of former Ibrox star Jamie Murphy who believes the Scotland under-21 international is one of the country’s most exciting young prospects.
Miller has continued to make headlines for all the right reasons this term after being granted a licence to flourish and his first-team breakthrough under Stuart Kettlewell last season. The Fir Park sensation has earned rave reviews from pundits and several ex-pros in the media, putting Glasgow’s big two on high alert.
Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers opted to sign Dundee skipper Luke McCowan for £1 million on Deadline Day this summer instead of swooping for Miller, while Philippe Clement opted to complete a deal for Connor Barron from Aberdeen with a transfer fee yet to be determined.
However, ex-Gers and Motherwell forward Murphy – now playing for Championship side Ayr United – believes Miller should still be on their radar as he is likely to move on “sooner rather than later”, having tread in the 18-year-old’s footsteps previously as a teenager coming through the Steelmen youth academy system.
Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Murphy said: “He’s been terrific. To come in the way he has and settle into the team and almost be the main man at that age is really, really difficult to do so it is no wonder why teams are looking at him and I expect him to move on sooner rather than later.
“He’s the type of player both Old Firm teams should be looking at. Going back in the day here but looking at the best players in Scotland first and foremost before you go to a foreign player. That is where the bread and butter is. You want to have those players you can develop and play over time.
“You can see it with Rangers and Connor Barron. It may be a different situation at Rangers with Barron coming in. Maybe not being the one they wanted to start but he’s come in and done so well, he’s stayed in the team. I think both teams should definitely be looking at Lennon Miller.”
Celtic outcast ‘wanted’ for permanent transfer after value increases as club hope for ‘favourable outcome’
Alexandro Bernabei of Internacional looks to have played his last game for Celtic | Getty Images
The left-back is currently out on loan but is unlikely to play for the Hoops again
Alexandro Bernabei looks to have played his last game for Celtic with the Hoops outcast currently starring on loan with Brazilian club Internacional.
The Argentine left-back returned to South America on a season-long loan deal in March and quickly established himself as a first-team regular. The 24-year-old has contributed two goals and a couple of assists, having started the club’s last 14 games with his most recent strike coming in last week’s 2-2 draw with rivals Corinthians.
Bernabei is due to return to Parkhead in December but has already been deemed surplus to requirements by manager Brendan Rodgers. And it’s expected that the Scottish champions will attempt to recoup a large chunk of the £3.75million they splashed out to bring him to Glasgow’s east end two years ago.
Internacional’s president Alessandro Barcellos admits he would be keen to thrash out an agreement to keep the defender in Brazil after admitting Bernabei’s value is starting to take a hike.
He told Radio Gaucha: “Bernabei is on loan with the club until the end of the year. We still need to work with the club that owns his rights to buy him or extend the loan, whatever the possible strategy.
“We have already started talks with the player’s agent, who has expressed an interest in staying, which is important in the process. We hope to have a favourable outcome, but this will only happen towards the end of the year.
“Our idea is to keep Bernabei, as he increases in value with each game that passes. He is a player who has earned his space, conquered it, and maintained it, and today he is a very important performer for our team.”
Danish media react to Kasper Schmeichel display vs Spain as Celtic goalkeeper’s error proves costly
What was a ‘flawless’ Saturday night for Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel turned into one to forget after his error cost Denmark against Spain.
Schmeichel won his 108th cap for the Danes during Saturday’s Nations League match in Murcia, playing the full 90 minutes of a 1-0 defeat.
The shot-stopper had a quiet first hour up against the Euro 2024 winners, who struggled to work him between sticks.
However, the Celtic goalkeeper was called upon on two occasions in the 62nd and 68th minutes. Twice, he denied Alvaro Morata by spreading his frame to shut off the striker’s shooting angles from close range.
Schmeichel has always been renowned for his strength and size in one-on-one situations, and he did excellently to keep the Spaniards at bay.
However, the pivotal moment in the game came after 79 minutes, when Martin Zubimendi’s lashed shot from outside the box slipped out of the goalkeeper’s grasp, under his body, and into the goal.
Although there was a slight deflection, it was an effort that Schmeichel should have kept out.
READ MORE: The three clubs Kasper Schmeichel rejected to sign for Celtic
Danish media have their say on Kasper Schmeichel vs Spain
There was criticism from Danish press outlets and supporters after the defeat, but most recognised that Schmeichel had contributed greatly to a potential result up to the point of Zubimendi’s strike.
Bold called his performance a ‘paradox’ and said, “Schmeichel was on course for a flawless performance, but for Spain’s goal he looked poor. Even though the shot was deflected by Hojbjerg, it was a ball that the seasoned keeper should have taken.
“Otherwise, he showed great composure and several times took the sting of the Spanish pressure with a confident and good passing game, as well as making a couple of great saves.”
Tidsbladet meanwhile thinks a ‘curse’ is continuing for the Danish shot-stopper and had a similarly mixed review of his display, stating, “There has long been a debate about Schmeichel’s role as first choice, because Mads Hermansen impresses, but today Kasper Schmeichel showed himself well, especially with a classy save on a huge Morata opportunity in the second half.
“But Schmeichel, on the other hand, unfortunately, looked absolutely unconvincing at Zubimendi’s scoring, where he was slow to get down.”
BT continued the theme, going so far as to say Schmeichel was cooking up a masterpiece before the goal, reviewing, “With great saves and giga confidence on the ball, the keeper had painted a work of art worthy of Picasso. But out of the blue, Schmeichel wreaked havoc on his own work as he zeroed in on Nelsson’s non-free kick, got into position a little too late and then delivered a drop that cost the one point.”
Kasper Schmeichel’s numbers for Denmark vs Spain
Now 37, Schmeichel won’t last forever at the elite level and will naturally face increasing questions about the next generation taking over his number-one spot.
However, his overall performance against Spain wasn’t a bad one up to the difficult moment with Zubimendi.
Kasper Schmeichel vs SpainMinutes Played90Saves5xGOT faced1.29Goals prevented0.29Recoveries15Acted as sweeper1Pass accuracy68%
It was just one of those moments that has happened to every goalkeeper, regardless of age.
Schmeichel will be philosophical about how it panned out and retain his confidence. That’s the kind of character he is.
Denmark now have a match away to Switzerland on Tuesday night and will again be first-choice for Celtic’s test at home to Aberdeen next weekend.
Photo: Celtic star spotted at League of Ireland ground
6th October 2024; Victoria Park, Dingwall, Scottish Premiership Ross County versus Celtic; Luke McCowan Photo Vagelis Georgariou
Celtic midfielder Luke McCowan was spotted at Brandywell Stadium in Derry for their game against Bohemians. The 26-year-old joined Celtic from Dundee in a deadline day deal worth £1m as he sealed a dream move to his boyhood club.
A lucky supporter spotted McCowan undercover at the League of Ireland ground as he sported a Derry City top underneath his hoodie.
Luke McCowan with a Derry City top after staying on to watch Derry v Bohemians 🔴⚪ ⚽
— Wat_the_deuce 🍀🇮🇪☘️( NEW ACCOUNT ) (@wat_thee_deuce_) October 12, 2024
McCowan got his first 90 minutes at Celtic under his belt in the 3-2 win over Sligo Rovers earlier in the week. The former Dundee captain will be hoping that his cameo displays from the bench will transpire into more minutes under Brendan with view to a Scotland call-up.
Jimmy Thelin will be of interest to our game’s top man and I have name for movie about Aberdeen boss – Hugh Keevins
Jimmy hadn’t started school in Sweden the last time the club won the league title
Jimmy Thelin
There will be Aberdeen fans at Celtic Park next Saturday who were also inside the ground on that fateful day.
November 6, 2010. Full-time result: Celtic 9 Aberdeen 0. The Dons supporters have waited 14 years to erase the memory of the time manager Mark McGhee suffered that ignominious defeat. There was a single-goal win for Dons on the final day of the season six years ago – but I’m talking about a scale of defeat that registers on the Richter Scale as much as that humbling did on the day Celtic ran riot.
And now Aberdeen believe they have a man in charge of the club who can genuinely contemplate a win over the defending champions that would be as symbolic as it would be satisfying if it meant the ascent of the league table with no one for company. This is the fixture that kicks off what might be called Jimmy Thelin and the Sequence of Substance.
Aberdeen boss Jimmy Thelin
It sounds like a movie title and there is the potential for an epic turn of events. Celtic away, a revival of what used to be known as the New Firm derby against Dundee United at home, followed by Rangers at Pittodrie and capped by a Premier Sports Cup semi-final with Brendan Rodgers’ side at Hampden on November 2.
Four games. Two weeks. One block booking to determine whether or not Thelin is the real deal, or establish that his team’s scintillating start to the season has been a flash in the pan. Aberdeen need to be put into context. Jimmy hadn’t started school in Sweden the last time the club won the league title, a 40-year long omission from their record books. It has been years since the Dons last won the Scottish Cup in a penalty shoot-out against Celtic.
Charlie Nicholas scored one of the spot-kicks against his old club and he, to illustrate the passage of time, is now a grandfather. A decade has also passed since Derek McInnes brought the club the League Cup on the back of an undistinguished final against
Inverness Caley Thistle.
You could hardly, under those circumstances, describe the Pittodrie club as serial trophy winners on a domestic basis. But Thelin has overseen a medical breakthrough in the north east. Pittodrie has a pulse once again. “They used to be famous” is a saying that might have to be reviewed under the terms of the revival that Jimmy has masterminded.
It’s not often you get a game which puts first against second in the league table and Rangers are neither of those clubs. That’s a tribute to Thelin. The international break is an annoying interruption for supporters disillusioned by the performances, and the results, racked up by Steve Clarke’s side.
And that is undoubtedly the case this time when it’s the most eagerly anticipated league game of the season that is being delayed. It’s remarkable to think how far Thelin has taken Aberdeen from a sorrowful sequence of another kind. The one that began with the worst result in the club’s history, the 1-0 Scottish Cup elimination suffered at the hands of Darvel from the sixth tier of Scottish football that came in January last year.
The hesitation over what to do for the best after that night in Ayrshire allowed the club to let Jim Goodwin remain in charge as manager for the next game. And saw him leave Easter Road by a side door following a 6-0 demolition by Hibs. Barry Robson came and went after going from interim to permanent boss. Neil Warnock had a comical cameo role that lasted 34 days and contained no league wins.
The lack of direction at Pittodrie was painfully obvious. Until the man from Elfsborg arrived on these shores. Now we have a game that has captured the public’s imagination. How often does that happen in the Premiership outwith the Old Firm derbies? Even Celtic’s manager must be intrigued by it all after two spells in charge of the club spent hoovering up league titles and creating records in an environment where he only had to concern himself with the team across the road on the other side of the city.
Now there’s a new kid in town who’s trying to be as synonymous with Sweden as ABBA, Ikea and Henrik Larsson. That’s the name of the game on Saturday afternoon.
Celtic should ‘definitely’ look at signing Premiership star, Michael Stewart predicts transfer value will soar
The initial impact of Luke McCowan at Celtic has shown that there is transfer value to find in the Scottish Premiership, and the Bhoys have been told to consider another league standout.
Celtic haven’t made many domestic transfers in recent years.
In the last decade, players such as David Turnbull, Stuart Armstrong and Ryan Christie have all arrived to play regularly for the first team, but the club’s recruitment has largely focused on talents from other countries.
Along the way, prospects such as Aaron Hickey, Lewis Ferguson, and John McGinn have left the league and gone on to earn plaudits for their performances across Europe.
Are Premiership players undervalued at the Bhoys? There’s an argument for that and it’s something to consider as another standout talent earns a reputation.
READ MORE:
Lennon Miller showing potential that Celtic should consider
Lennon Miller, still just 18, has emerged as Motherwell’s most influential and important player – currently showing the kind of form that must be catching Celtic’s eye.
The central midfielder has scored four goals and assisted three more in 13 appearances this term, helping his club into a top-four position in the table.
Congratulations to Lennon Miller, who has been presented with the Premiership Player of the Month award for September! 🏆
— SPFL (@spfl) October 8, 2024
Go Radio pundit Jamie Murphy reckons that Celtic should absolutely be considering him as a potential signing in upcoming transfer windows.
He said, “He’s been terrific. To come in the way he has, settle into the team, and almost be the main man at that age is really, really difficult to do, so it is no wonder why teams are looking at him. I expect him to move on sooner rather than later.
“He’s the type of player both Celtic and Rangers should be looking at. Look at the best players in Scotland first and foremost before you go to a foreign player. That is where the bread and butter is. You want to have those players you can develop and play over time.
“I think both teams should definitely be looking at Lennon Miller.”
It’s still early days for the teenager, of course. He has to sustain stellar form over an entire season before a club like Celtic will commit, but the initial signs are that he will have a high-quality career.
Michael Stewart predicts his transfer value will soar
Miller is being discussed a lot at the moment, in part due to him winning the Premiership Player of the Month award for September.
The Scotland U21 star is predicted to earn a good fee for Motherwell, in excess of the £3.25m Celtic paid for Turnbull, but pundit Michael Stewart thinks that investing now could pay off in the future.
He told Premier Sports this week, “You could have a mansion on a certain street, and it has a ceiling price. You put that mansion on another street, and it has a far greater value. And it’s the same in football.
“Lennon Miller is a quality player. At Motherwell, there is a ceiling price in terms of what would be paid.
“In a couple of years time, say he was playing in a different country or a different league, that value is going to be through the roof I would imagine.
“When I say £5m, I genuinely think that Motherwell could get between £3m to £5m for him.”
What Lennon Miller’s family are saying about his situation
Miller’s father is former Aberdeen star Lee Miller, who has stated that his son is ambitious enough to want to play at the highest level in football.
However, it appears he is happy developing at Fir Park for now.
Miller senior told PLZ Soccer last month, “He’s not interested in going anywhere else right now in terms of he wants to rack up as many games as possible.
“That time will probably come, and he wants to play at the highest level, Lennon. But I go through different scenarios with him all the time. ‘Think if this happened, this could happen’ in different situations.
“And he’s got ambition, he’s got massive ambition, he wants to be a Scottish international, play at the highest level. The way he’s going just now he will do that, but there’s no rush for that, and he understands that as well.”
The Motherwell star is undoubtedly a player to watch over the coming season. Given the hype, if there’s no January move, then a summer one is likely to follow. It’ll be very interesting to see if Celtic are in the mix for his signature.
Although currently well-stocked in midfield, the Bhoys are always on the lookout for the best domestic prospects available who have the attributes to become a success at the champions.
Celtic have the resources and the scouts to ensure good-value gems do not leave the country only to pay off for others down the line. They can’t get it right every time, but the club should be at the forefront of developing homegrown talent.
Like Kuhn on the left: Celtic could land their next superstar in 2025
It is to Brendan Rodgers‘ credit that he was still able to steer his dominant Celtic side to a domestic double last season, despite having endured a rather limp first transfer window back at the club.
Among those to have arrived in the summer of 2023 was the centre-back pairing of Gustav Lagerbielke and Maik Nawrocki, although the former played a bit-part role before joining FC Twente on loan this summer, while the latter has made just one appearance so far this term and just 14 in total for the Old Firm side.
Marco Tilio, meanwhile, was sent back to his native Australia before he’d even had time to settle in Glasgow, while promising midfielder, Hyeok-kyu Kwon is now on his second temporary stint away from Parkhead, at Hibernian.
Fellow youngster Odin Thiago Holm seemingly can’t get a game under Rodgers despite having been tipped to be Matt O’Riley’s long-term successor, while on the flanks, both Luis Palma and Hyun-jun Yang have fallen behind long-serving veteran James Forrest, in the attacking pecking order.
Thankfully, it seems, the Hoops have not been set back too greatly by that turbulent period of recruitment, having at least made one solid signing during the 2023/24 campaign which has begun to bear fruit, in the form of Nicholas Kuhn.
Nicholas Kuhn’s season in numbers
Having arrived from Austrian side Rapid Vienna back in January, the German winger did endure a mixed first six months in Scottish football, having ended the season with just three goals and three assists in 18 appearances in all competitions for his new side.
That underwhelming return no doubt sparked fears over whether the 24-year-old was yet another wayward signing by those at Celtic Park, although ever since pre-season, the tricky left-footer has looked like a man reborn on that right flank.
A brace against Manchester City back in late July set the tone for what has been a stunning campaign so far for the wing wizard, having already eclipsed his tally from last term with relative ease.
Remarkably, in just 11 appearances in 2024/25 to date, the former Germany U20 international boasts six goals and eight assists in all, with that haul of 14 goal involvements placing him ahead of any other member of the Celtic squad.
Looking now like being the club’s new Jota-like superstar, the Hoops could well be keen to snap up an equally as exciting talent on the opposite flank in the near future…
Celtic transfer news
As reported earlier this week, Celtic are believed to be among the clubs who are keen on signing Hammarby youngster Bazoumana Toure, with a move in 2025 potentially in the offing.
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The suggestion from GIVEMESPORT is that both the Hoops and Manchester United have sent scouts to watch the 18-year-old in action this season, albeit with another Premier League side – Crystal Palace – showing the most interest at present.
That could ensure that Rodgers and co may have a real battle on their hands to land the in-demand teenager, although forking out the reported £8m transfer fee to secure his signature could well prove worth it indeed.
Why Celtic should sign Bazoumana Toure
Splashing out £8m for a player who has made just 21 senior appearances in his career to date may seem ludicrous, but young Toure certainly warrants that price tag amid what has been a sparkling start to life in Sweden.
Formerly on the books at Ivorian outfit ASEC Mimosas – for whom he made only two appearances – the rising star has dazzled since arriving at Hammarby earlier this year, having been hailed as a “great signing” for the club by talent scout, Jacek Kulig.
Also lauded as a “super player” by Kulig, the Hoops target already boasts seven goals and three assists in just 19 games for his new side, showcasing his ability – like Kuhn – to both get on the scoresheet himself and create chances for others.
A left-footer, also like Kuhn, Toure does in fact typically operate on the left flank, with data analyst Ben Mattinson likening him to Chelsea’s Pedro Neto in that regard, albeit while stating that he’s a “more intelligent passer” and has “more variance to his game” than the £54m signing.
With the ability also to “burn” any full-back – in the words of Mattinson – the explosive talent would offer a real direct threat down the left, while also boasting the end product to match, having created six ‘big chances’ in the Allsvenskan in 2024, while averaging 1.8 successful dribbles per game.
Kuhn 2024/25 League stats
Scotland player ratings and gallery: Clear star man, numerous pass marks and one performer who must keep place
We give the Scotland players a mark out of ten for their performance in Zagreb
Scotland’s competitive winless run extended to nine matches in painful circumstances after they fell to a 2-1 defeat by Croatia in Zagreb.
Despite some strong performances from Steve Clarke’s players, they are now facing the prospect of relegation from Nations League Group A1 after this sore defeat at Maksimir Stadion, with the Scots having a goal chopped off in stoppage time for a narrow offside.
Scotland took the lead on 33 minutes when Ryan Christie forced Duje Caleta-Car to turn the ball into his own net, only for Igor Matanovic to level just three minutes later. The winner came for Croatia on 70 minutes when Andrej Kramaric headed home from close range.
Scotland now must lick their wounds and head back to Hampden for Tuesday’s showdown with Portugal, with a victory required to stop the rot. However, they will be up against it when facing Cristiano Ronaldo and Co.
Here are the player ratings from Croatia 2-1 Scotland.
1. Craig Gordon
This was a good performance from the 41-year-old, back in the fold despite missing out on the Euros and winning his 76th cap. Made four smart saves from Kramaric, Matanovic, Modric and Sosa and had little chance with the goals. Very rarely lets his nation down and that was the case here. 7 | Getty Images
2. Anthony Ralston
The reserve Celtic right-back is growing into life as Scotland’s first-choice in that area. Croatia pushed forward down his flank but Ralston was dependable and put in some strong blocks. Tried to get forward when possible to support Doak and kept the inexperienced winger in check. A decent shift in a trying venue. 6 | Getty Images
3. Grant Hanley
Out of favour at Norwich, his lack of game-time at Carrow Road appeared to catch him out early on when he gave away an early free-kick and picked up a yellow card after being too easily spun by Matanovic. However, the experienced centre-half grew into the match and put in a mature display, especially given Croatia’s tendency to flood forward and put pressure on. 6 | PA
4. John Souttar
The Rangers man was rewarded for his good club form with a start in this match ahead of Porteous. This was a fine effort from the 28-year-old, who put in a number of interventions, the most telling being a big block to deny Kramaric effort on 23 minutes. Was also dependable with his distribution. Should keep the shirt for match against Portugal. 7 | Getty Images
Celtic supporters urge club to re-sign to bring fan favourite after viral photo as Rangers flop set for career U-turn
The latest headlines from Celtic and Rangers heading into the international break
Celtic supporters are urging Brendan Rodgers to re-sign local hero Kieran Tierney in the January transfer window after a picture of the pair went viral on social media.
Rodgers was attending a Celtic FC foundation charity event in London when he was pictured in deep conversation with the former Hoops stalwart.
The charity foundation shared the post on Instagram with the caption: “The gaffer and KT. A massive thank you to Brendan and Kieran for being here in London for our Annual Gala Dinner.”
Underneath the post many Celtic fans commented: ‘Bring him home’, with many others commenting ‘up the road’ and ‘get him back.’
Tierney is a lifelong Celtic fan, who joined the club’s academy when he was just seven years old. He quickly gained a reputation for being a rising star after a string of impressive performances at reserve level and was handed his first team debut in April 2015 under Ronny Deila.
The versatile defender won SFWA Young Player of the Year in the next three consecutive seasons whilst helping Celtic to three league titles, two Scottish Cups, two League Cups and even an unbeaten season in 2016/17.
Tierney left Celtic in 2019 to complete a move to English giants Arsenal for £25m – a Premiership record fee at the time. He helped the Gunners to FA Cup glory and was initially a stalwart under Mikel Arteta, but due to a combination of injuries and new signings, the 47-time Scotland international gradually fell down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium.
He spent last season on loan at Real Sociedad and is reportedly now seen as surplus to requirements despite being under contract until 2026. Tierney failed to make a move in the summer due to a serious hamstring injury sustained at Euro 2024 but looks increasingly likely to depart in January.
Unemployed Rangers man set for big career move
Bongani Zungu made just 14 appearances for Rangers during a loan spell from Amiens in 2020/21. He picked up a league title in that time, but ultimately didn’t do enough to secure himself a permanent move.
He headed back to Amiens in France after Ibrox but he was on the move to his homeland in South Africa with Mamelodi Sundowns.
Since his deal in his homeland expired he’s been on the look-out for a new club – and also making business moves away from the game. Sun Sport claims he has started a successful business venture in cattle farming, but claims things off the pitch have been less successful with not many clubs offering the 31-year-old a contract over the summer.
However, that could be about to change in the coming weeks as the outlet claims he is now in advanced talks to join Moroccans Wydad Casablanca, who were African Champions League runners-up last season and winners of the competition in 2022.
The North African side are renowned for generating an incredible atmosphere on matchday and have been voted the world’s best ultras on three occasions in 2015,2019 and 2022, according to World Ultras Magazine.
Spurs Legend Perryman Gives Glowing Endorsement to Celtic-linked Paul Tisdale
Celtic are reportedly on the verge of appointing Paul Tisdale to a key footballing operations role at the club, and one of his former bosses, Tottenham Hotspur legend Steve Perryman, has explained why he believes Tisdale is a perfect fit for the position.
Perryman, who previously served as Exeter City’s director of football, worked closely with Tisdale for 12 years after bringing him to the club.
Reflecting on their time together, Perryman has praised Tisdale’s intelligence, judgment, and ability to succeed across various aspects of football management.
In a glowing endorsement, Perryman said [MailSport]: “Paul is in the top three football people I have met for his intelligence.
“In terms of his judgment in situations, such as recruitment, selection, dealing with the board and players, he is excellent.”
This endorsement highlights the breadth of Tisdale’s capabilities, with Perryman suggesting that his former colleague has the qualities to excel not just on the footballing side but also in the boardroom.
Perryman emphasised how Tisdale’s intelligence had been a defining factor throughout his career. “His intelligence saw him through – and his intelligence said to me ‘he could be chief executive chairman of this club’,” he said.
Tisdale’s versatility and ability to cover multiple aspects of football operations made him an invaluable asset at Exeter. This trait will undoubtedly benefit Celtic should the move be finalised.
According to Perryman, one of Tisdale’s key strengths is his knack for recruitment and talent identification, even when working in the challenging environment of lower-league football.
“He signed well, even when we were dealing with the lower-league market,” Perryman recalled, noting how Tisdale demonstrated a “keen eye and good judgment on young players.”
Tisdale’s ability to spot and develop talent was evident during his time at Exeter, where he unearthed future stars such as Ollie Watkins, now a Premier League regular with Aston Villa, Swansea City captain Matt Grimes, and Wales international Ethan Ampadu, whom Tisdale brought into the City first team at the tender age of 15.
Perryman further praised Tisdale’s overall character, describing him as “honest, honourable, likeable” and someone who “just does things right.”
Such traits could be crucial at Celtic, where navigating player recruitment, development, and the relationship between board and squad are essential to maintaining the club’s dominance in Scottish football.
If Tisdale is to join Celtic, it seems the club will be getting an astute football mind and a leader of great character and vision—someone who can help steer the club on and off the pitch.
Kris Boyd Reluctantly Hails Celtic Star as Player of the Season So Far
Despite a slow start to his Celtic career, Nicolas Kuhn is now shining brightly in the Scottish Premiership, with none other than former Rangers striker Kris Boyd naming him his Player of the Season so far.
6th October 2024; Victoria Park, Dingwall, Scotland: Scottish Premiership Football, Ross County versus Celtic; Nicolas Kuhn of Celtic applauds the fans at the end of the match
Boyd’s endorsement comes as the German forward continues to impress, becoming a pivotal figure in Brendan Rodgers’ side during the 2024/25 campaign.
Kuhn, who joined Celtic with high expectations, struggled to find his rhythm initially, but this season he’s turned things around dramatically.
His performances have caught the eye of fans and pundits alike, none more so than in last weekend’s dramatic late win against Ross County, where Kuhn scored a last-minute winner to secure three crucial points for the Hoops. That goal encapsulated his recent form — sharp, decisive, and capable of producing moments of magic when it matters most.
Boyd, well-known for his Rangers connections, was asked who his standout player from the season has been so far. Reluctantly, he admitted that Kuhn, despite a less-than-stellar first few months in Glasgow, has now risen to become the most in-form player in Scotland.
Boyd recently spoke about Kuhn’s transformation: “He might have started a bit slowly (last season) but there were still glimpses there where you thought, there might be something there,” he said (The Warm Up via SunSport).
“It was just putting it all together, but I mean this season I think he’s been outstanding.”
Kuhn’s ability to turn around his form has been crucial for Celtic as they continue their domestic and European campaigns.
His creative play and goal-scoring prowess have made him a key figure in Rodgers’ plans, with fans now excited to see how far he can push his potential this season.
With his confidence growing by the week, Kuhn’s influence will likely keep growing as Celtic eye further success.
Bernabei’s brilliant in Brazil, Celtic set for surprise transfer fee recoup
Alexandro Bernabei (L) of Internacional celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s first goal during a match between Corinthians and Internacional as part of Brasileirao Series A 2024 at Neo Quimica Arena on October 05, 2024 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Miguel Schincariol/Miguel Schincariol)
Celtic could be set for an unexpected transfer bonus in January as loan-Celtic Alexandro Bernabei’s fine form in Brazil is set to earn him a permanent move to Internacional…
Alexandro Bernabei (L) of Internacional celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s first goal during a match between Corinthians and Internacional as part of Brasileirao Series A 2024 at Neo Quimica Arena on October 05, 2024 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Miguel Schincariol/Miguel Schincariol)
The Argentinian left-back is believed not to be part of Brendan Rodgers’ plans going forward at Celtic, and the club would be looking to recoup the £3.75million paid to Argentinian side Lanus in 2022.
Internacional’s president Alessandro Barcellos wants to thrash out a deal with Celtic for the 24 year old with Barcellos recognising that Barnabei’s valuation is soaring due to his excellent form at his club after the player initially took some time to settle in.
Alexandro Bernabei of Internacional celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during a match between Corinthians and Internacional as part of Brasileirao Series A 2024 at Neo Quimica Arena on October 05, 2024 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Miguel Schincariol/Miguel Schincariol)
Speaking to Radio Gaucha Barcellos had this to say about his on loan Celtic star: “Bernabei is on loan with the club until the end of the year. We still need to work with the club that owns his rights to buy him or extend the loan, whatever the possible strategy.
“We have already started talks with the player’s agent, who has expressed an interest in staying, which is important in the process. We hope to have a favourable outcome, but this will only happen towards the end of the year.
SAlexandro Bernabei of Celtic celebrates scoring his side’s first goal his teammates during the preseason friendly between Celtic and Gamba Osaka at Panasonic Stadium Suita on July 22, 2023 in Suita, Osaka, Japan. (Photo by Kenta Harada/Getty Images)
“Our idea is to keep Bernabei, as he increases in value with each game that passes. He is a player who has earned his space, conquered it, and maintained it, and today he is a very important performer for our team.”
One way of looking at this news, coupled with the Kieran Tierney return gossip that was inevitable after Celtic FC Foundation sets tongues wagging last night by tweeting the photo of Brendan Rodgers talking to the Arsenal left-back at a Foundation event in London, is that with Tierney being valued at £10m, this unexpected recoup on the Bernabei fee goes more than a third of the way to funding a KT transfer fee!
Celtic to land ‘£5m’ windfall after Man United reveal – Keith Wyness
Aberdeen’s former chief Keith Wyness has revealed Celtic could land £5million extra per year from their deal with Adidas if they perform well in the Champions League.
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Aberdeen between 2000 and 2004, had lengthy spells as the chief of Everton and Aston Villa and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – insisted the Scottish Champions can’t afford to pick up more results like their 7-1 defeat against Borussia Dortmund last week.
Celtic’s current agreement with Adidas is set to expire in the summer of 2025 after penning a five-year deal back in 2020, but both parties are understood to be keen on agreeing an extension.
Footy Headlines reported on 5 October the Glasgow giants will be promoted to one of the German manufacturer’s elite clubs from their B Premium status next season.
That will see them join the likes of Manchester United, who have an agreement in place with Adidas that will see them receive £10million less for every season they fail to qualify for the Champions League.
Celtic could receive uplift on Adidas deal after European success
Wyness believes Celtic are likely to agree similar results-based clauses in their next contract with Adidas, enabling them to receive an uplift on their current deal.
He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “That’s one that I have never had to negotiate, so I’m unclear as to how much that would be.
“But my guess would be something like probably a £5million difference possibly a year.
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“I could be wrong on that, but I think it’s going to certainly be based on results and based on Man United potentially losing £10million.
“I think Celtic if they do well in the Champions League and those sorts of areas, which they didn’t do in the last game, then they could get those sorts of bonuses.
“I think it will be bonus related, maybe with a very small uplift on the basic.
“It’s good news for them, but 7-1 was a bit of a hammering, so they have got to perform better than that.”
Celtic tease with Kieran Tierney pictures
The Celtic Foundation weren’t shy over the fact that Kieran Tierney attended a fund raising event in London last night.
Chris Sutton, Martin O’Neill and Rod Stewart were included in the pictures released on Twitter last night but it was the appearance of the Arsenal defender, apparently deep in conversation with Brendan Rodgers that attracted most attention.
In February 2019 Rodgers left Celtic for Leicester, a few months later Tierney joined Arsenal but rumours of a return to Celtic have never been far away with only the timing to be arranged.
Tierney is under contract with Arsenal until May 2026 but is well out of the picture under Mikel Arteta, spending last season on loan at Real Sociedad where he played in 20 La Liga matches and twice in the Champions League.
An amazing night in London! ?
Thanks to all our guests who helped raise invaluable funds for the Foundation tonight ?@CelticFC | #LondonGala2024 ? pic.twitter.com/9gxCLQAgPw
— Celtic FC Foundation (@FoundationCFC) October 11, 2024
Injuries is the biggest issue for Tierney, his Arsenal debut in 2019 was delayed as he underwent rehab on a pelvic condition while his involvement at the European Championships came to a sudden halt with a serious hamstring issue as Scotland drew with Switzerland in their second match.
Arsenal are committed to two more seasons of EPL wages, with another contract highly unlikely next summer will be decision time over whether they sell or release the defender or keep him onboard as cover.
Adding to the intrigue is the left-back position at Celtic where Greg Taylor is out of contract next May with the loan deal for Alex Valle running out at the same time.
It would be very simplistic to put two and two together into Tierney joining Celtic next summer but there are a number of hurdles to overcome before the defender attends club functions as an employee again.
Paul Tisdale has Celtic fans asking Doctor Who but my sources tell me there’s substance behind the style – Chris Sutton
Sutty thinks Tisdale could fit the bill if Celtic want to tweak their off field structure in the longer term
Paul Tisdale
Celtic might be about to call on the Football Doctor – while supporters wonder Doctor Who?
Paul Tisdale actually looks a bit like one of the characters who would be flying around in the Tardis with his flamboyant style. But Celtic fans shouldn’t rush into any judgements. I’m not sure how the Trilby hat or cravats would go down in Glasgow but by all accounts there is a bit of substance behind the style.
Speaking to people in England, Tisdale has a strong reputation in the game and is generally regarded as knowing his stuff. Celtic are on the search for someone to take over as head of football operations and this guy might fit the bill. It would certainly be an interesting appointment. Tisdale spent years as manager at Exeter City and it’s well known how he took the club through the divisions and was there to bring through talents such as England’s Ollie Watkins and Wales cap Ethan Ampadu.
He’s been working as a self-styled ‘football doctor’, which might sound a bit much but he has obviously impressed with his work enough to have had an input into several clubs in the Premier League. Celtic could be next. The thing about Celtic though is they may be bringing in a doctor but there won’t need to be extensive surgery.
I know Brendan Rodgers went on record in the summer saying things were not quite where he wanted them to be in the recruitment side. But they still came out of the window in a strong position, with the likes of Arne Engels looking a good find, on top of the deals for previous recruits like Paulo Bernardo and Adam Idah.
No one can accuse Celtic of failing in the player recruitment model when they regularly sell players for upwards of £20million – with Matt O’Riley and Jota going for £25m-plus over the past two summers. Celtic have a fortune in the bank so Tisdale – or anyone else for that matter – won’t be coming into a club needing intensive care.
They have a solid squad and a top class manager – and you can bet Rodgers will have a say in this appointment as well. He is in a position of power right now, just like Ange Postecoglou before him and like Martin O’Neill in my time at the club.
Rodgers is calling a lot of the shots and that is understandable given he has a track record for delivering. The question will be what kind of structure does Celtic want to have in the future. It’s different at every club.
Some will have an all powerful chief executive who is pulling the strings. Others will have a director of football or sporting director who has the major say in signings, while the manager is more of a head coach.
Then there are sides where the manager is the man who makes everything tick. He’ll be answerable to the people in the boardroom but might have autonomy when it comes to the football department.
You’d think Celtic is more of the latter under Rodgers right now but the tweaks to the system with a football operations appointment might allow him to delegate some of the other stuff. Tisdale is certainly an interesting character – and one in complete contrast to the likes of chief executive Michael Nicholson. He likes to remain in the background and you barely hear from him.
Celtic CEO Michael Nicholson
Tisdale seems a more colourful character, and not just because of his attire. It’s a situation worth watching – which is what armchair fans won’t be able to do with the game against Aberdeen next weekend.
Listen, I’m not one to sit on the fence but I can see both sides of the argument over this so-called television blackout. Do I think Celtic v Aberdeen should be screened live? Absolutely. It’s a top of the table clash and the game of the season so far.
But the broadcasters have their hands tied. I understand Celtic wanting to defend their season ticket sales and not wanting to risk punters not turning up. We saw what happened with the Rangers game against St Johnstone on the Sunday night recently, where there were empty seats all over Ibrox.
I’m sure Celtic fans would turn up regardless of the kick-off time whether it was on television or not, given the nature of this game but I can see the argument. The broadcasters get a bit of a criticism for this stuff but their hands are tied. The restriction on the amount of home games is a real conundrum.
What happens if Sky do show this one – but then have bust their allowance for Celtic Park when the title race gets into the home straight. There would be an outcry from fans. You can’t win really. If the game was shifted to another time, there would be moaning about the scheduling,
Aberdeen fans might grumble about an early start, Celtic might whinge about recovery time before their Champions League clash against Atalanta. You just know people would find something to complain about.
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As far as I am concerned, I would love to see the biggest games in Scotland on the box, whether it’s Celtic against the Dons, Rangers facing Hearts, the Edinburgh or Dundee derbies, you name it.
But the clubs are the ones who prevent this happening. They only allow a certain number of games and the financial incentives to take on a couple more is obviously not lucrative enough for Celtic to accept.
Until the clubs agree to change it, that’s just the way it’s going to be and the broadcasters will need to deal with it accordingly. Even Doctor Who would struggle to figure this one out.
Know Your History – Today is a very special day for Celtic
Ronnie Simpson
Know Your History – A very special day for Celtic…
Celtic 1930/31. Back; Willie Cook, Peter Kavanagh, Hugh Smith & Peter Wilson.
Saturday, 11 October 1930 was a pretty special day for a number of Celtic stars, although that wasn’t at all obvious at the time.
Over 70,000 spectators made their way to Hampden to watch the Hoops take on Rangers in the Glasgow Cup final. The Celts lined up as follows;
John Thomson; Willie Cook & Peter McGonagle;
Chic Geatons, Jimmy McStay & Bobby Whitelaw;
Bertie Thomson, Alec Thomson, Jimmy McGrory, Peter Scarff & Charlie Napier.
Ten of that side would lift the Scottish Cup at Hampden the following April, the exception being left-half Bobby Whitelaw who replaced the injured Peter Wilson. But that would be a story for another day.
Back in October 1930
Back in October 1930, goals from Charlie Napier and Jimmy McGrory saw Celts beat Rangers 2-1 to win a first trophy in two long years, despite a disallowed Peter Scarff goal and the dismissal of close-season signing Bertie Thomson for retaliation. Former Glasgow Perthshire winger Thomson had been the victim of some callous challenges by the infamous full-back Jock Buchanan which went unpunished, and Celtic subsequently complained to the SFA about what they perceived as a ‘travesty of justice.’
Charlie Napier had opened the scoring early on but twice had to be helped from the field in the first half following robust treatment.
Peter Scarff. Photo The Celtic Wiki
Linwood Bhoy Peter Scarff
Like Thomson and Napier, this would be a first winners’ medal for Linwood Bhoy Peter Scarff, but tragically he would only have that and the Scottish Cup medal from April 1931 to treasure before a serious illness changed the course of his life.
Jimmy McGrory’s direct opponent that day was Rangers captain Davie Meiklejohn, but there is an interesting side story there also. Jimmy Simpson had played in that centre-half role in the Ibrox club’s two earlier matches in the competition, narrow home wins over Third Lanark and Queen’s Park, but he had other things on his mind as his side faced Celtic at Hampden.
Johnny Crum in action against Rangers at Ibrox. He scored the winner as Celts won there on 21 September 1935 for the first time in almost 15 years. The Rangers defender is Jimmy Simpson, Ronnie’s father.
Ronald Campbell
Just a stone’s throw from Hampden in Cathcart that same day, Simpson’s wife Mabel would present him with their first son, to be named Ronald Campbell, mum’s maiden surname being acknowledged. The young couple had been married in Dundee the previous year.
He was bought by Celtic
Ronnie would grow up to become a top-class goalkeeper, actually featuring for all three of Rangers’ opponents in that Glasgow Cup run – Third Lanark, Queen’s Park and Celtic, as well as winning two FA Cup medals in the 1950s with Newcastle United. He would then end up at Hibernian, and in September 1964 he was bought by Celtic by that same Jimmy McGrory, the selling manager being a certain Jock Stein.
A young Ronnie in the colours of Queen’s Park (left) and (right) with his father Jimmy and son Stuart.
Within six months, Jock had swapped Easter Road for Celtic Park and the rest as they say is history.
And it all started on this day in 1930.
Hail, Hail!
Matt Corr
Matt Corr, author of Celtic in the Thirties, at Celtic Park. Photo AJ (The Celtic Star)
Brendan pictured with Celtic fan favourite, heavily linked with return
Brendan Rodgers and Kieran Tierney of Celtic are seen during the UEFA Champions League Qualifier between Celtic and Alashkert FC at Celtic Park on July 18, 2018 (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has been pictured with fan favourite Kieran Tierney in London. The Arsenal fullback was linked with a return to Paradise in the summer before picking up a hamstring injury with Scotland at the Euros.
The duo, who were close during Rodgers’ first spell at the club, were pictured engaged in a conversation at Celtic’s Gala Dinner in London.
The gaffer and KT! 💼📣
A massive thank you to Brendan and Kieran for being here with us in London tonight 🍀
— Celtic FC Foundation (@FoundationCFC) October 11, 2024
“It’s Friday. We’ve all ordered large fish.
— – (@Tam_Selleck) October 11, 2024
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta reportedly made the decision to sell Tierney before his injury with the left back being made available for £10m. KT has under two years remaining on his deal with the Gunners and they’ll be keen to recoup some of the £25m that they paid to Celtic back in 2019.
Tierney made 170 appearances for Celtic between 2015 and 2019. During his time at the club, he scored 8 goals and provided 37 assists across all competitions.
Tierney was a key player in Celtic’s domestic success under Rodgers, helping them win multiple Scottish Premiership titles, Scottish Cups, and League Cups before departing to England.
Brendan Rodgers and Kieran Tierney Spotted in London at Celtic Event
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has been spotted deep in conversation with former fan favourite Kieran Tierney at a special Celtic Foundation event in London. The Celtic Foundation wasted no time in sharing the image on social media, and it’s already got fans talking. Could this be a subtle hint of something more?
Tierney, still on Arsenal’s books, is facing an uncertain future after being frozen out by Mikel Arteta this season. Despite returning from a loan spell at Real Sociedad, the left-back is not wanted at the Emirates. While Celtic might not be able to match the Gunners’ transfer demands, there’s always a bit of magic when it comes to football transfers.
Bringing Tierney back to Celtic Park would certainly ignite excitement among the support. The Scottish international was a key player under Rodgers during his first stint as Celtic boss, and the possibility of a reunion could benefit both parties. Tierney has had his fair share of injury troubles, but a fit and firing KT could be a monumental boost for the Hoops.
It’s all just speculation at this point, but seeing Rodgers and Tierney together in such a setting is bound to get the rumour mill spinning. Could a sensational return be on the cards? As always, you can never say never in football.
“I really loved Celtic”, striker reveals no regrets after £4m departure
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 06: Oh Hyeongyu of Celtic celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Celtic FC and Hibernian FC at Celtic Park Stadium on December 06, 2023 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Former Celtic striker Oh has revealed that he has no regrets over his summer departure from Paradise. The South Korean forward left Celtic for Belgian side Genk after just a year and a half with Celtic.
Oh scored 12 goals in 47 appearances but after Idah arrived, it was clear that he was out of Brendan’s plans. Speaking to the Glasgow Times, the forward said that he had no regrets but loved the club.
“I had lost my place in my national team because I was no longer playing for Celtic.
“It was then I knew I had to get a transfer.
“Now I am in a good place here.
“I scored 12 goals in total for Celtic, but I hardly played in the last six months.
“They had brought in a new striker, someone with a different profile – a big, strong boy – and they had to find a solution for me.
“I thought that was a shame at first because I really loved Celtic. It’s a great club.
“But when Genk came calling, I didn’t hesitate.
“I had a few options in the English Championship, but I just wanted to come here.
“When you see all the players who came through here – Kevin De Bruyne, Thibaut Courtois, Leandro Trossard and more. That’s impressive, isn’t it?”
Oh will look to make a mark in European football in Belgium. It was clear that he had raw attributes that might’ve resulted in him coming good for Celtic. Ange clearly rated the player but Brendan was less than convinced, resulting in the move for Idah from Norwich.
The Belgians paid £2.5m but the deal included add-ons that could take the deal up to £4m. Celtic then went back to Norwich and sealed a permanent move for Idah, which was worth a total of £9m.
Even Kris Boyd believes ‘outstanding’ Celtic hero is the best in Scotland right now
Nobody has shown more improvement at Celtic this season than Nicolas Kuhn, and even Rangers pundits are lining up to dish out the praise.
The German winger has scored six goals and contributed a healthy eight assists in his 11 matches so far.
He is delivering end product well beyond what he managed in the first six months of his Celtic career.
The attacker used the summer pre-season period to strengthen physically and find a devastating role in Brendan Rodgers’ tactical set-up.
Lightning-quick, a battler and unselfish, Kuhn has been a superb threat for the Bhoys and is quickly becoming mega-popular with fans. He now even has his own chant on the terraces.
It’s still very early days in 2024/25, of course, but Kris Boyd reckons he’s actually been the best performer in the entire Scottish Premiership to this point.
Kris Boyd says Nicolas Kuhn is setting the bar at Celtic
Speaking on the SPFL’s Warm-Up YouTube show, Boyd was full of plaudits for the Celtic star despite the pundit’s Rangers leanings.
Asked by host Gordon Duncan who has been the best player in Scotland so far this season, Boyd didn’t hesitate to respond, “Nicolas Kuhn.”
The former striker then added, “He might have started a bit slowly last season, but there were still glimpses there where you thought to yourself, there might be something there. It was just putting it all together, but I mean, this season, I think he’s been outstanding.
“You look at the goals and assists. He’s taking part in the game as well. It’s not as if you’re just hoping to get the ball to him for a bit of magic. He has work rate to get back and help Alistair Johnston.”
Nicolas Kuhn aiming for big numbers this season
The German will be looking to go well into double-figures for goals and assists across the coming campaign.
It’s now all about maintaining his consistency and continuing to exploit defences even as they grow wise to his talents in their second and third meetings with Celtic.
Rodgers needed a player to step up and replace Matt O’Riley’s direct goal contributions last term, who notched 19 goals and 19 assists.
Although from a different position, Kuhn is well on his way to replicating that kind of impact.
James Forrest pulls out of Scotland squad as Celtic left sweating over injury concern
Celtic are in the midst of the international break just now, which always carries a risk of injury concerns to Brendan Rodgers to contend with.
Starting off duties with their respective nations the way they mean to go on, Liam Scales and Adam Idah helped the Republic of Ireland over the line against Finand last night in Helsinki.
Slightly closer to home, Celtic’s homegrown contingent are preparing to face Croatia on Saturday in Zagreb. Nevertheless, Greg Taylor has already pulled out the Scotland squad due to injury.
Anthony Ralston and James Forrest have also been called into the reckoning with two matches for the Tartan Army against Croatia and Portugal over the course of this international fixture instalment.
However, there is now bad news for the latter amid recent developments, so let’s take a look at his current situation.
Celtic wait to hear more on James Forrest injury concern
Per The Scottish Sun, Forrest has been ruled out of the Scotland camp for their Nations League double-header, leaving Ralston the sole survivor in Steve Clarke’s plans for events over the coming days.
The outlet state he missed their final training session before the squad were due to fly out to Zagreb, which was only initially taken as a precautionary step.
Nevertheless, he will now pull out of camp to focus on recovery with the Celtic physio team while his teammates look to solidify Scotland’s position in League A Group 1. It is unclear how long he could be sidelined for at this point in time.
Becoming the latest in a long line of injury-related concerns for Clarke to manoeuvre, Kieran Tierney, John McGinn and Jack Hendry are among the most notable absentees.
Celtic won’t want James Forrest on the sidelines
Hopefully, Brendan Rodgers doesn’t have anything too serious to worry about regarding the experienced winger.
It should be noted that Forrest pulled out of Scotland’s plans last month alongside Taylor, so this isn’t exactly a new scenario and may just be a precaution.
With four assists in his opening ten appearances this term, the 33-year-old has been in fine form for Celtic.
Regardless, the Bhoys will need to patiently wait for an outcome on his fitness while the wait for the international break to conclude ensues.
Celtic Star Suffers Injury Blow on International Duty
James Forrest has been forced to withdraw from the Scotland squad for their upcoming Nations League matches against Croatia and Portugal due to injury.
Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – September 1, 2024 Celtic’s James Forrest arrives at the stadium before the match REUTERS/Russell Cheyne
The 33-year-old Celtic winger adds to a growing list of absentees for Scotland, with key players like Lawrence Shankland, Greg Taylor, Lewis Ferguson, Aaron Hickey, Nathan Patterson, and John McGinn already sidelined.
Forrest’s injury became apparent after he missed Scotland’s final training session before their clash with Croatia in Zagreb. He will now return to Celtic for treatment, with the Hoops set to face Aberdeen on October 19 following the international break. This marks another challenging period for Forrest, who also missed the previous international camp due to injury.
He’s featured for Celtic seven times this season in the league, grabbing three assists while he’s been at it. After falling out of favour, he impressed Brendan Rodgers towards the back end of last season and found himself playing some consistent minutes.
The injury setback comes at a difficult time for both Forrest and Scotland, as manager Steve Clarke deals with a depleted squad heading into important Nations League fixtures, looking to pick up their first points of the campaign.
For Celtic, the priority will be ensuring Forrest is fit and ready to contribute when domestic action resumes.
James Forrest on the shelf for Nations League double header, Scotland suffer fresh injury woe
The Celtic hero will be missing from the crucial clashes against Croatia and Portugal
Scotland have been dealt another injury blow ahead of their Nations League double header against Croatia and Portugal with James Forrest ruled out of the two matches.
It has been a challenging couple of weeks for national team boss Steve Clarke, who has already lost Lawrence Shankland and Forrest’s club teammate Greg Taylor to injury in the lead-up to the October internationals. Lewis Ferguson, Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson remain unavailable as they continue the road to recovery from their long-term injuries while influential number seven John McGinn was the most notable absentee from the squad to face Croatia and Portugal with a hamstring problem.
And according to the Scottish Sun, Forrest, 33, has now pulled out of the squad after missing the side’s final training session ahead of the clash with Croatia in Zagreb on Saturday. They add that the Hoops stalwart will remain in Glasgow and return to Celtic for treatment for his suspected injury with the champions next in action against Aberdeen at Parkhead on Saturday, October 19.
Forrest’s absence leaves his club teammate Anthony Ralston and Aberdeen’s Nicky Devlin – who has been called up by Clarke for the first time – as the two recognised candidates to occupy the right back/right-wing back position. Fellow Dons defender Jack MacKenzie is also in line for a Scotland debut on the opposite side having been drafted into the squad in the wake of Taylor’s injury.
The Scots will be looking to bounce back from agonising defeats to Poland and Portugal in Nations League A in order to keep their hopes alive of remaining in the top tier of the competition. They go to Croatia tomorrow night before welcoming Portugal to Hampden next Tuesday.
Real Madrid icon labels Celtic as ‘second-class’ despite raving about atmosphere
Legendary midfielder Toni Kroos has changed his tune about the Hoops
Toni Kros raved about the Celtic Park atmosphere in 2022/23 (Image: SNS Group)
Real Madrid icon Toni Kroos has used Celtic as a stick to beat Borussia Dortmund after the Germans were brought crashing back down to earth.
Brendan Rodgers’ side suffered a humiliating 7-1 mauling at the hands of the Champions League runners-up last week before bouncing back with a hard-fought victory at Ross County on Sunday. Dortmund, though, crashed to a shock 2-1 defeat at Union Berlin, leaving them seventh in the Bundesliga with just three wins from six.
And Kroos – who retired at the end of last season as the most decorated German player of all time having won 34 trophies – aimed a dig at Celtic as he assessed Dortmund’s start to the campaign.
He said: “I think the last week was the classic example of a Borussia Dortmund week. They won 7-1 in the Champions League – even if it has to be said that it was against a second-class opponent.
“And then they went to play a Bundesliga game at the weekend and put in a typically poor performance and lost. In the end, Dortmund will be judged by how they do in the Bundesliga, not in Europe.
“They won’t make it to the Champions League Final every year. They have to finally show some consistency in the league. I think we can say that Dortmund should be doing better in the league for many years now.”
Kroos’ comments may come as a surprise to Celtic fans after the legendary midfielder waxed lyrical about the Parkhead atmosphere two years ago. The 34-year-old was at the heart of Carlo Ancelotti’s midfield as Madrid survived a first-half Celtic onslaught to emerge 3-0 winners.
Speaking after the game, he said: “Celtic Park? The UCL anthem started and I thought the stadium was going to collapse. Incredible, I had never experienced anything like this.”
The three clubs Kasper Schmeichel rejected to sign for Celtic as he tells Danish media why
Kasper Schmeichel has been giving insight into his decision to sign for Celtic during the summer transfer window, explaining why he rejected a return to the English Premier League.
Since arriving to replace his friend and former teammate Joe Hart, Schmeichel has made a very positive impression on the goalkeeping position.
Hart was an influential figure within the Celtic dressing room and amongst the support, so the Danish international always had a tough task to follow in his footsteps.
However, consistent clean sheets domestically have helped him settle in nicely and there’s hope that he can still come up big across the remaining six Champions League games.
Considering he was a free transfer, Celtic’s move for him has received a big thumbs up.
The club did a grand job of getting him into Brendan Rodgers’ squad, fighting off strong interest from elsewhere.
Kasper Schmeichel turned down three Premier League sides for Celtic
Danish newspaper Ekstra Bladet reports today that Schmeichel had the chance to join Nottingham Forest, Ipswich Town and Wolves after his exit from Anderlecht before signing up in Scotland.
Explaining to the outlet his decision to join Celtic, the goalkeeper said: “Playing for the title, as I am now doing at Celtic, and at the same time being at the highest level in the Champions League, motivates me.
“When I look back on my career, the moments I have enjoyed the most have been the few matches I have had in the Champions League.
“Of course, the Premier League has a very special place in my heart, but for me, it was an easy choice to go to Celtic, where I have come to a club that plays in the Champions League, must win every game and have 60,000 fans at the home games. Those are exactly the challenges that really motivate me.
“When it comes to football, money has never been a motivation for me.”
Schmeichel has found a happy home in Scotland
It’s clear that Schmeichel is relishing the early stages of his spell at Celtic. At the tail-end of a long, illustrious career, this is the perfect place for him to stay sharp and motivated.
Even if his father, Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel, has been left buzzing by the experience so far.
The retired shot-stopper recently said: “It’s perfect. It’s perfect. With the manager he knows, the atmosphere around, I mean, Celtic is just a massive, massive club. You know that better than me, but the team they have, it’s amazing.”
Schmeichel is just getting started, too.
Adding more silverware and medals to his collection is now the aim as the Bhoys fly high in the Scottish Premiership and prepare for a Scottish League Cup semi-final at Hampden.
Achieve that, and then he’ll really feel the power of Celtic
SCALES AND THE WINNING MENTALITY
GOAL HERO Liam Scales is hoping Republic of Ireland adopt Celtic’s winning mentality after their 2-1 UEFA Nations League triumph against Finland in Helsinki.
The international team had gone through a tough and prolonged barren spell until the Hoops defender inspired his country with a brilliant equaliser to steer them towards three crucial points from a difficult fixture.
Now Scales is adamant the Irish are ready to go again when they lock horns with England’s Wembley conquerors Greece in Athens on Sunday.
Robbie Brady got the Irish winner with Adam Idah playing his part after coming off the substitutes’ bench against the Finns.
THAT’S MY BHOY…Liam Scales is congratulated by former Celtic team-mate Mikey Johnston as Adam Idah looks on after the Republic of Ireland’s comeback win in Helsinki.
Scales said: “We knew we had to show character and we also knew the game was there to win or at least get a point. Obviously, though, we wanted a win.
“We want to make that a common occurrence, winning big games, winning games away from home, and obviously winning at home, as well. Hopefully, we can take that mentality into the next few games.
“Greece away is obviously it’s a tough fixture, we have struggled against them in the past, but we are going in on a high now and we need to make this a mentality, a winning mentality, that we can go away to tough places and take wins.
“That’s how you are going to qualify for tournaments. So, that’s the way we need to look at this game.
“We have played them enough to know what they are like and it’s just about going out there, being solid, and, hopefully, winning the game.”
Scales, speaking to the Irish Independent, praised the service from Brady for his leveller and continued: “You know the delivery is going to be brilliant from Robbie, so we are just told to attack the spaces in between the defenders, and that’s what I did.
HEAD BHOY…Liam Scales is a roaring success after his goal against Slovan Bratislava.
“Luckily, it came into my area and it was just a perfect ball. The timing was good and I just managed to get it on target.
“I think it comes with a bit of experience, as well. Sometimes I play against defenders who are heavier and stronger and you need to make use of your timing and speed to win those duels.
“I’m learning as I go along. I might now go on a big drought, you never know. Sometimes the goals can come together and then you don’t get any for a while.
“But if I can make the most of the chances I get, then I’ll be happy.”
The Dubliner added: “I’ve got a few this season and I didn’t get many in the couple of seasons before.
“So, it’s a good thing to add to my game and, hopefully, I can kick on now and get a few more. I work hard in the gym, so I’m stronger, but I think it’s more about timing and delivery, and just getting it right and making sure you take the chance when you get it.
“You don’t get many as a defender and it can be vital in big games, it can be a turning point for us.”
William Boving Celtic transfer link clarified as Sturm Graz attacker has Euro interest
Celtic are busy planning for future transfer windows, and players from around the world are again set to be linked with a move to the Bhoys over the coming weeks and months.
One name doing the rounds in online Celtic circles on Friday is William Boving.
The versatile Sturm Graz attacker has been mentioned as someone who has garnered early interest from the Bhoys after standing out at the Champions League outfit.
Still just 21, Boving has already racked up 125 senior appearances for boyhood club Copenhagen and the Austrian side.
It’s impressive experience for his age, and since making the switch to Sturm Graz, he’s contributed 11 goals and 11 assists.
However, securing his signature would be a major challenge, and a move to Celtic is unlikely.
William Boving garnering European attention amid Celtic interest
67 Hail Hail understands that not only would Sturm Graz be looking for a fee in excess of £7m but that Boving would likely have little interest in a move to Scotland as his next career step.
In addition, clubs from Germany and Italy are showing interest in his services, presenting further hurdles that Celtic would find difficult to clear.
Boving can play in wide attacking areas as well as through the middle as a centre-forward.
With Celtic shelling out significant money for Adam Idah during the summer transfer window and currently possessing wingers who are firing and in form, there’s no grand need to spend big in those positions right now.
Celtic’s potential transfer priorities
There are few question marks about Celtic’s attacking quality so far this season. The Bhoys have scored a stunning 36 goals in just 11 matches.
When considering transfer priorities moving forward, it would make sense to focus on defensive positions or perhaps add an alternative ball-winning option to the midfield area.
The left-back area looks in particular need of care, with Greg Taylor’s contract expiring at the end of the season and Alex Valle only on loan from Barcelona.
Celtic will always be on the hunt for attractive prospects regardless of position, but strengthening the team’s combative core would be welcome.
That’s alongside a continuation of trimming fringe options from the squad who aren’t getting game time currently.
Toni Kroos dramatically changes mind about Celtic as ‘second raters’ not the team he fell in love with.
He slammed Dortmund despite their recent Champions League romp and put the Hoops down the list
Toni Kroos takes a corner at Celtic Park
Straight-shooting Toni Kroos has branded Celtic as ‘second class opponents’ – two years after waxing lyrical about their status in European football.
He slammed Borussia Dortmund despite their recent Champions League romp. Celtic were sent crashing back to earth in their second round of fixtures in the competition when they were crushed 7-1 by the Bundesliga cracks, after hammering Slovan Bratislava in the first game 5-1 at Parkhead. Kroos retired after the summer’s European Championships where he helped his country to a 5-1 win against Scotland in the opening game of the tournament.
And the 34-year-old Real Madrid icon – who is the most decorated German player of all time having won 34 trophies in his 17-year career – took a swipe at Celtic while discussing Dortmund’s poor domestic start to the season on his podcast he co-hosts with his brother Felix. He said: “I think last week was the classic example of a Borussia Dortmund week. They won 7-1 in the Champions League – even if it has to be said that it was against a second-class opponent.
“And then they went to play a Bundesliga game at the weekend and put in a typically poor performance and lost. In the end, Dortmund will be judged by how they do in the Bundesliga, not in Europe. They won’t make it to the Champions League Final every year. They have to finally show some consistency in the league. I think we can say that Dortmund should be doing better in the league for many years now.”
He previously extolled the virtues of Celtic after Madrid’s win at Celtic Park in 2022. He said: “Celtic Park? The UCL anthem started and I thought the stadium was going to collapse. Incredible, I had never experienced anything like this. I told Alaba: ‘We are already losing 2-0!'”
We have developed a genuine star player Celtic, see player
Liam Scales is often judged against his central defensive partner, the impeccable Cameron Carter-Vickers. It is only when Cameron is out and we see Liam as the senior partner in defence that we get to appreciate the gap between him and those aspiring to replace him.
After around a year as first choice at Shamrock Rovers, Liam arrived in Glasgow three years ago and played a handful of games in his first season, before going on loan to Aberdeen.
Jim Goodwin took him there but was sacked after their historic Scottish Cup defeat at Darvel. That game was live on TV and we got to see Liam play right side of a back three; it is no wonder Goodwin didn’t make the cut. Barry Robson got the Aberdeen gig and came close to securing Liam on loan for another season, before an injury crisis at Celtic stopped the move going through.
The pivot which took place in Liam’s career late August 2023 was incredible. Liam was called into the team after Kilmarnock dumped us out of the League Cup for a home game against St Johnstone. Celtic were poor, St Johnstone took a point back to Perth with them, and Liam was repeatedly caught out by the ball over the top. One occasion late in the game almost produced a breakthrough for Saints.
We went to Ibrox the following weekend with some predicting a thrashing. With a weakened side, Celtic lost 3-0 there a few months earlier. It was not just Liam who would pivot that day, the whole of Scottish football did, but Liam was an absolute rock in defence.
He is never going to be Cameron Carter-Vickers, but when you see him alongside others, you know that Brendan will need to bring in an exceptional player to replace him. A month after scoring his first Champions League goal, he scored his first international goal for Ireland in a win in Finland last night.
We have developed a genuine player; credit to all involved.
The verdict on how Liam Scales played vs Finland as Celtic star scores first goal for Ireland
It was a Thursday night to remember for Celtic defender Liam Scales as he scored his first-ever international goal for the Republic of Ireland in a 2-1 victory over Finland.
Scales’ 58th-minute header helped the Irish leave Helsinki with three Nations League points, equalising for his country after Nathan Collins’ horrendous defensive error gifted Finland a first-half lead.
Robbie Brady swung in a pinpoint free-kick for the Celtic defender to guide home under pressure, delighting his teammates and the travelling support.
Brady then turned goal hero himself just a few minutes from time, netting expertly at the back post after Festy Ebosele’s tricky cross caught out the Finland defence.
It’s a strong win for the Irish, which halts a three-game losing streak.
Liam Scales is solid at the back and a set-piece threat for Ireland
In a defensive sense, Scales did little wrong. Finland were restricted to just a handful of chances that, if not for Collins’ first half error of a slack pass back to Caoimhin Kelleher, would have resulted in a barren night.
The Celtic man won a towering 10 of his 11 duels with opponents, showing he was up for the fight.
There were some slack moments in possession, though he completed 84% of his 58 passes to teammates, typically looking to push the play forward from the defensive line.
His match rating from stat-tracks FotMob was a mighty 8.4, more than anyone else on the pitch apart from his goal partner Brady.
His threat from set-pieces was apparent even before his equaliser. Shortly after the interval, he nodded a corner down to the back post, which could have resulted in a goal for Sammie Szmodics.
Wicklow’s finest 💚
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) October 10, 2024
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Overall, it was decent evidence that Scales has the ability to win many more Ireland caps, and he’ll now be hoping to retain his place in the team for Sunday night’s trip away to Greece.
Incredible rise continues for Celtic defender
The goal and victory is another proud moment for the popular Irishman who has enjoyed a fairytale rise for club and country over the last 18 months.
Scales earned a UEFA Man of the Match award in the Champions League just last month, and now he’s stepping up for Ireland when he’s needed most.
Considering he was on the fringes of the Celtic squad and in danger of being sold on the cheap before Brendan Rodgers’ arrival, his progress has been remarkable.
Long may it continue!
Watch Liam Scales head Ireland on route to victory in Finland
Liam Scales scored his first international goal tonight as Ireland won 1-0 away to Finland in the Nations League.
The Celtic defender never played a minute of the September internationals but was in from the start tonight in Helsinki as new coach Heimir Hallgrimson enjoyed his first victory in charge.
Finland took the lead in the 17th minute but just before the hour mark Scales gave the away fans something to cheer about with an equaliser, heading powerfully back across goal from an inswinging free kick from Robbie Brady on the right.
??GOAL | Finland 1-1 Ireland | Liam Scales
— Goals Xtra (@GoalsXtra) October 10, 2024
The match looked to be heading for a draw until the 88th minute when Brady popped up with a winning goal.
Having started his career relatively late this season could hardly be going any better for Scales whose two goals have come in the Champions League and Nations League.
On Sunday Ireland face a huge test in Athens when they take on Greece who followed up last month’s 2-0 win in Dublin with a 2-1 win over England at Wembley.
Adam Idah was an unused substitute in tonight’s match, as was Viljami Sinisalo.
Republic of Ireland fight back to beat Finland with late Robbie Brady winner
damian spellman, pa, helsinki
Robbie Brady and Liam Scales spared Nathan Collins’ blushes as the Republic of Ireland fought back to claim Nations League victory in Finland.
Preston defender Brady smashed home an 88th-minute decider to snatch a 2-1 win at Helsinki’s Olympic Stadium after Liam Scales had cancelled out Joel Pohjanpalo’s first-half opener with his first senior international goal.
No-one will have been more relieved at their intervention than Ireland skipper Collins, whose blunder had set up Venezia striker Pohjanpalo.
The lads 🥲
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) October 10, 2024
For Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson, who launched his reign with back-to-back defeats by England and Greece last month, a first win – just a third for the Republic in 19 Nations League fixtures – in what opposite number Markku Kanerva had described as a potential relegation decider in League B2, will have come as a welcome boost.
Scales started in a new-look back-four in which left-sided Dara O’Shea was asked to line up at right-back against a Finland team missing experienced striker Teemu Pukki, who was named only among the substitutes.
Neither side was able to create anything of note until Chiedozie Ogbene combined with Finn Azaz, who whipped in a 10th-minute cross which was hacked away by home defender Adam Stahl.
Collins blocked Robin Lod’s shot on the turn two minutes later and full-back Tomas Galvez delivered a dangerous ball into the Irish box from the left as the Finns responded, and Caoimhin Kelleher had to make the game’s first save, collecting Leo Walta’s dipping effort after it skipped off the turf on its way to goal.
Joel Pohjanpalo put Finland ahead (Antti Aimo-Koivisto/Lehtikuva via AP)
However, the hosts were handed a 17th-minute lead when Collins left his back-pass to Kelleher woefully short and Pohjanpalo pounced to beat the keeper with ease.
The visitors thought they had levelled within four minutes when Evan Ferguson converted Collins’ knock-down from a Brady free-kick, but the flag had gone up in the meantime.
Josh Cullen and Jason Knight were seeing plenty of the ball in the middle of the field, but with the hosts well organised, they were struggling to find a way through the massed ranks of white shirts and their most promising moments came from the link-up between O’Shea, Azaz and Ogbene down the right.
Kelleher was relieved to see Pohjanpalo stab a weak shot straight at him after Topi Keskinen had got the better of O’Shea in a foot race, and Ireland’s mood would not have improved when Brady drilled a free-kick from an inviting position straight into the defensive wall after Azaz had been bundled over by Rasmus Schuller 25 yards out.
Wicklow’s finest 💚
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) October 10, 2024
Azaz forced keeper Lukas Hradecky into his first save of the game, albeit a regulation one, four minutes before the break and Sammie Szmodics caused consternation in the Finnish penalty area with a speculative cross before Hradecky blocked a Ferguson attempt with his legs in a late, but ultimately futile, flurry.
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However, Knight tested Hradecky from distance within two minutes of the restart and it took Schuller’s well-timed intervention to deny Ferguson after Scales, Brady and Szmodics had linked fluently.
Szmodics stabbed instinctively at the keeper after Scales had headed down the resulting corner with Ireland showing much greater urgency, and they got their reward with 57 minutes gone after Ogbene had been hauled back by Keskinen.
Brady curled the free-kick to the far post where Scales climbed above defender Arttu Hoskonen to head firmly back across Hradecky to level.
Nathan Collins shields blocks Finland striker Joel Pohjanpalo as Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher grabs the ball (Antti Aimo-Koivisto/Lehtikuva via AP)
Finland passed up a glorious opportunity to restore their advantage within six minutes when former Rangers and Leeds midfielder Glen Kamara curled wastefully wide with the goal at his mercy, and Stahl only just failed to get on the end of Galvez’s driven cross 13 minutes from time.
Substitute Benjamin Kallman might have snatched victory for Finland when he headed wide from Lod’s 87th-minute free-kick, but Brady was not so wasteful seconds later when he controlled Festy Ebosele’s cross and blasted into the roof of the net.
Celtic defender Scales scores first international goal for Ireland
Liam Scales levelled the game for Ireland before Robbie Brady scored a late winner (Image: PA)
Many of Celtic’s first team squad are currently away on international duty this week.
Liam Scales capped off his sixth cap for the Republic of Ireland by netting his first goal for his country.
The Hoops defender has been a mainstay at club level since returning from a season-long loan at Aberdeen last year. And now his ever-present form has earned the 26-year-old the trust of the Ireland boss Heimar Hallgrimsson.
He played the full 90 minutes against Finland in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday night, and impressed not only by scoring but also putting in a solid overall defensive showing.
He won the most duels (10) during the match and completed 84 per cent of his passes out from the back.
Meanwhile, it was contrasting fortunes for Celtic’s Japanese representatives.
Daizen Maeda had been an unused substitute and Reo Hatate was left out completely for Tuesday’s World Cup qualifying win over Bahrain.
However, Maeda was introduced on the 63rd minute as Japan defeated Saudi Arabia on Thursday.
The energetic forward only had 20 touches of the ball though, and failed to complete a successful dribble.
Hatate didn’t get on the pitch again, with manager Hajime Moriyasu persisting on selecting other midfield options.
‘You could sense something was coming’ – Match-winner Robbie Brady hails Ireland team-mates after win over Finland
Robbie Brady celebrates his winning goal against Finland
Ireland’s Robbie Brady admits his late winner away to Finland was up there with his famous strike to beat Italy in Lille at Euro 2016.
The 32-year-old was Ireland’s standout player in their 2-1 Nations League win in Helsinki as, after Nathan Collins’ nightmare error to gift Finland the opener, Brady assisted Liam Scales’ leveller with a pin point cross after the break before his superb strike on 88 minutes secured a big three points on the road, as Heimir Hallgrimsson secured his first win as Irish boss.
Speaking after the victory, Brady was asked how his dramatic late winner in Finland ranked with his famous winner against Italy eight years ago, which secured a Last 16 place for Ireland at their last major tournament appearance.
“It was up there! You can see the hard work the lads are putting in, in every camp when results weren’t going our way. We could sense something was coming,” Brady told RTÉ as he collected the Player of the Match award.
“There is millions of pounds worth of talent in that dressing room. We’re just delighted to get the win tonight.”
Asked about his excellent assist for Scales’ fine header – the Celtic defender bagging his first Irish senior goal – Brady said “I just put the ball in the area. Scalesly did unbelievable to get himself a goal there.
“Then Festy with a bit of magic (to assist the winner) when he came on, he was excellent, pace and power and a great delivery. As soon as it sat up I thought I’d hit it and luckily enough it went in.”
Hallgrimsson paid tribute to his players after a big victory on the road and admitted that mistakes happen in football when asked about Collins’ dreadful first-half error to gift Joel Pohjanpalo a goal on 18 minutes.
“We can be happy with a lot of things in the performance. In the first half one mistake and we were punished, but I thought we played pretty good especially at the end of the first half and we built on that in the second. It was not a perfect match,” said the Irish boss, with Sunday’s clash away to Greece, who beat England on Thursday night, up next.
“Everyone felt we were doing better and better in the training sessions, we were more in sync and I think it showed on the pitch. We didn’t give Finland a lot of goal scoring chances.
“We gave it (goal) to them, it’s not like they played through us. I think overall we should be happy with the performance.
“You can’t do anything about mistakes. It’s something that happens and you have to be ready to exploit when they (opposition) make mistakes. It’s just something that happens in football. We cannot criticise anyone for making a mistake, they happen.”
Video: Celtic defender scores towering header on International duty
RECORD DATE NOT STATED 13th October 2023 Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland International Football Group B Euro 2024 Qualifier, Republic of Ireland versus Greece Liam Scales of Ireland after the full time whistle PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUK ActionPlus12564113 PeterxFitzpatrick
Celtic defender Liam Scales got on the scoresheet as Ireland beat Finland in Helsinki. The centre back rose to connect with a cross from the right wing to equalise in the second half.
— Live stream @FCStreamTV (@IgnaciaSma39875) October 10, 2024
Scales has been excellent in the early stages of the season as he has taken his game to another level. The central defender has likely noted the threat to his place in the team from Austin Trusty. The goal that he scored in the UCL opener against Slovan Bratislava showed his determination to make it on the top stage.
Goal hero Robbie Brady feels ‘something is coming’ with Ireland after Finnish turnaround
Player of the match Robbie Brady says that the squad can “sense something is coming” with the Republic of Ireland team following tonight’s 2-1 victory over Finland in Helsinki.
Brady, who set up Liam Scales’ equaliser, scored the Boys in Green’s late winner, controlling a Festy Ebosele cross superbly at the back post before smashing the ball into the roof of the net.
It means a first ever away win for Ireland in the Nations League, but more importantly it lifts the feeling around the squad after a tough international window, with two chastening defeats to England and Greece last month.
“You see the hard work the lads are putting in and the results are not going our way,” he told RTÉ Sport after the game.
“We can sense something is coming. There’s millions of pounds worth of young talent in that dressing room and (we’re) just delighted to get the win.
“Scalesy’s done unbelievable to get himself a goal and Festy was a bit of magic, I thought he did excellently when he came on; pace and power and a great delivery for the second.”
On his winning goal Brady added: “I think I heard someone shouting to try a cross but as soon as it sat up I said I’d hit it, and lucky enough it went in.”
The equaliser for Scales was his first in an Irish shirt, heading home Brady’s cross to give Finnish goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky no chance.
For the Wicklow native, who has been getting regular Champions League football with Celtic this season, it’s another notch on his belt five years after he was playing in the League of Ireland with UCD.
“It’s brilliant, it was a great feeling, and the fans just make it that bit better,” he said of his equaliser after the game.
“We’ve been due a win, especially away from home, and to win it like that was brilliant.
“I don’t get many, I’ve had a few this season already. In the last 10 or 15 games I’ve more than I had in the previous two seasons already.
“Droughts come as well as a defender but hopefully I can chip in with a few more.
“It’s always been top of the list for me so to check that off is amazing. I’ll reflect on it tonight and take it all in.”
Scales heaped praise on Brady for his winner, which turned a decent night for Ireland into a great one.
“The ability to take it down and fire it into the roof of the net, he’s got that in abundance. You saw it in the delivery for my goal. He deserves it, as well. He’s had to work hard and get himself back in and playing for us.
“A brilliant feeling, a brilliant goal, and you could see it in our faces when we were celebrating.”
On what the result might mean for the national side, Scales said that he hopes it can be the catalyst for a turnaround in fortunes.
“It’ll give us confidence and I think that’s been missing. We want to make a habit of winning tough games away from home, winning games at the Aviva.
“We don’t want to make it a one-off; we want to make it more regular. That’s the plan, take the confidence into the next few fixtures and hopefully pick up as many points as we can.”
Paul Tisdale transfer plan revealed, Palma branded ‘high risk’ as forgotten £3.5m payday escalates – Celtic news roundup
The Scottish champions are busy during the international break
Paul Tisdale (Image: Getty Images)
Paul Tisdale’s potential Celtic transfer plan has emerged – with an Exeter City ally insiting he would ramp up the player-trading model at the club.
Former City director of football Steve Perryman – who interviewed Tisdale for the St James Park hotseat – worked by his side for 12 years. The 51-year-old – who has branded himself the ‘football doctor’ – has reportedly been selected as the man to revamp the football operations at Celtic Park.
There’s a void to fill within the Scottish Premiership champions after the departures of head of recruitment Mark Lawwell as well as as chief scout Joe Dudgeon last March. And with Celtic managing to snap up a series of big money sales – most recently the record-breaking exit of Matt O’Riley – Perryman has tipped Tisdale to continue the trend.
He told the Daily Mail: “He signed well, even when we were dealing with the lower-league market. When you are at an Exeter, though – and I think this probably applies to everyone now – you have to have a keen eye and a good judgment on young players.
“At Exeter, he was signing players from under-13 to first-team level and, if you had anything about you then, you could be in the first team by 17. As he did with Ollie Watkins, as he did with Matt Grimes, who is now captain of Swansea.
“He found Ethan Ampadu and put him in the team at the age of 15. He just had great judgment. Judgment in the boardroom, judgment in a trial match where you have 30 or 40 players and you only need three to make up your squad.
‘Judgment in football is critical. And ‘Tis’ has the brain to get the best out of whatever job he is doing and just doing things right. He is honest, he is honourable, he is likeable and he just does things right.”
A transfer windfall that could be incoming to Celtic Park in January is the sale of Alexandro Bernabei. Currently on loan in Brazil at Internacional, the left-back is racking up regular minutes for the club.
With his temporary deal set to expire at the end of the year, the Hoops will be given the chance to recoup some of the £3.75m they spent on the Argentine back in 2022. Club president Alessandro Barcellos has confirmed they want to keep the left-back.
Alexandro Bernabei training with Internacional (Image: Alexandro Bernabei / Instagram)
He told Radio Gaucha: “Bernabei is on loan with the club until the end of the year. We still need to work with the club that owns his rights to buy him or extend the loan, whatever the possible strategy.
“We have already started talks with the player’s agent, who has expressed an interest in staying, which is important in the process. We hope to have a favourable outcome, but this will only happen towards the end of the year.
“Our idea is to keep Bernabei, as he increases in value with each game that passes. He is a player who has earned his space, conquered it, and maintained it, and today he is a very important performer for our team.”
Another man who is fighting for his future is Luis Palma – who didn’t do himself any harm with a hat-trick in the friendly against Sligo Rovers likely to catch the eye of Brendan Rodgers. The appearance in Ireland came after Honduras manager Reinaldo Rueda opted against calling him up – with Palma making just three appearance for the Hoops so far this term.
Rueda lifted the lid on the decision, stating to El Gráfico: “Luis Palma has faced difficult times after his injury in February. Although he had a good pre-season and some minutes, in the last month he has had no competition.
“It is a high risk for him to be out of his level, especially with complicated games ahead. In the matches against Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, we gave him minutes to stand out for his club, but he has had no recent activity. We hope he recovers, and we can count on him for the next date [international break].”
Kieran Tierney’s Future Takes a New Turn – Report
The ongoing saga surrounding Kieran Tierney’s potential return to Celtic has taken another twist, as recent reports suggest that his next destination could be a return to Spain, with Las Palmas showing interest.
Soccer Football – Europa League Round of 32 First Leg – Celtic vs Zenit Saint Petersburg – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Britain – February 15, 2018 Celtic’s Callum McGregor and Kieran Tierney after the match Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith
Despite Celtic fans’ hopes for a reunion with their former star, it appears Tierney’s career could be taking him in a different direction.
Tierney, sidelined since suffering an injury at Euro 2024, has reportedly been informed by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta that his time at the club is coming to an end. With his contract at the Emirates Stadium entering its final year next summer, Arsenal are considering loaning him out in January to boost his visibility and market value.
Las Palmas has emerged as a possible suitor, say Grada 3, with the Spanish side already having a Scottish connection in players like Oli McBurnie and Scott McKenna, which could help ease Tierney’s transition to La Liga. A loan move to Spain could offer Tierney the chance to rebuild his fitness and form in a less intense environment than the Premier League, while still playing at a high level.
A return to Celtic could still happen next summer; whether it will or not is another story. No doubt, until his permanent future is sorted, rumours will continue to emerge.
EXCLUSIVE: Celtic’s new recruitment chief Tisdale is one of the most intelligent men in football, says Tottenham legend Perryman
Spurs legend Steve Perryman believes Celtic are snapping up one of the smartest men in football in new recruitment chief Paul Tisdale.
A former director of football at Exeter City, Perryman interviewed Tisdale for the St James Park hotseat and worked by his side for 12 years.
A self-employed football consultant since leaving Stevenage in 2022, the 51-year-old is poised to become Celtic’s new head of recruitment after Mark Lawwell left the post in March.
And ex-England midfielder Perryman claims the Parkhead club have landed an astute judge of a player.
‘Paul is in the top three football people I have met for his intelligence,’ he told Mail Sport.
‘You meet people in football who have come from an education background and you think: “Yeah, but they haven’t played”.
Steve Perryman, above left, with Paul Tisdale during their time at Exeter City
Tisdale cut a fashionable figure on the touchline in his management days
Perryman, left, in action with Tottenham Hotspur during a London derby with Chelsea
‘Then you see people from an education background who look at players and think: “They’re not thinkers, are they”?
‘The hard part is getting the balance between the two, and “Tis” was – and is – a very, very well educated football person.
‘So, in terms of his judgment in situations, such as recruitment, selection, dealing with the board and players, he is excellent.
‘His intelligence saw him through – and his intelligence said to me “he could be chief executive chairman of this club”.
‘He covered every base because he had great character and intelligence.
‘He knows where he fits in, and he concentrates on that. He can wear so many different hats.’
Former Southampton playerTisdale was credited with discovering Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, and Perryman claims the England striker is just one of a number of talented young players who came through during his time as Exeter boss.
He also believes Tisdale’s skill set fits in with the player-trading model at the Parkhead club, who sold Matt O’Riley to Brighton for £25million and brought in Arne Engels on an £11m record deal.
‘He signed well, even when we were dealing with the lower-league market,’ said Perryman.
‘When you are at an Exeter, though – and I think this probably applies to everyone now – you have to have a keen eye and a good judgment on young players.
‘At Exeter, he was signing players from under-13 to first-team level and, if you had anything about you then, you could be in the first team by 17.
‘As he did with Ollie Watkins, as he did with Matt Grimes, who is now captain of Swansea.
‘He found Ethan Ampadu and put him in the team at the age of 15.
‘He just had great judgment. Judgment in the boardroom, judgment in a trial match where you have 30 or 40 players and you only need three to make up your squad.
‘Judgment in football is critical. And “Tis” has the brain to get the best out of whatever job he is doing and just doing things right.
‘He is honest, he is honourable, he is likeable and he just does things right.’
Luis Palma Renaisance; Winger’s Hat-trick Gives Celtic Late Victory in Ireland
Celtic left it late in Ireland tonight as a Luis Palma hat-trick gave the Hoops a narrow 3-2 victory over Sligo Rovers.
25th February 2024; Fir Park, Motherwell, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Motherwell versus Celtic; Goalscorers Luis Palma of Celtic and Adam Idah of Celtic celebrate in front of the fans at the end
The Bhoys travelled across the Irish sea for a mid-season friendly at the Showgrounds this evening, and despite a duo of calamitous errors from Scott Bain, fringe winger Palma saved the day with three goals.
Palma opened the scoring early doors, tapping home at the back post from a teasing Yang Hyun-jun cross:
Así fue el gol de Luis Palma ante Sligo Rovers en partido amistoso.
— Felipe Valencia (@Luiselpipe) October 9, 2024
Sligo then turned the game on its head as strikes from Kailin Barlow and Simon Power put the hosts ahead.
Rodgers made several changes throughout the game, bringing on numerous academy talents.
Going into the dying embers, it looked as though the Scottish Premiership champions were heading for a narrow defeat, but up stepped Palma.
In the dying embers, the 24-year-old struck twice to give the Celts a victory in their spiritual home.
Palma made it 2-2, slamming home at the back post from a teasing delivery from academy midfielder Sean McArdle.
Lightning then struck twice as Palma put his side ahead two minutes into stoppage time. The attacker, once more, popped up at the back post, this time converting from a teasing Samuel Iziguso cross.
Both late goals can be viewed below:
Hatricki de Luis Palma en amistoso con Celtic. El hondureño jugó los 90 minutos y logró anotar el 1-0, 2-2 y 3-2 para ganarlo frente Sligo de Irlanda.
Ritmo y confianza.
Que sea el resurgir, Luis. 🇭🇳 pic.twitter.com/Jd9fNIX7yE— De La Rocha 𝕏 (@AlvaroDLaRocha) October 9, 2024
A match-winning hat-trick might just be what Palma’s confidence needed. The winger has struggled to impress this season, but his contributions tonight could revive his campaign.
Report: Celtic Set to Make Key Footballing Operations Appointment
Celtic are set to appoint Paul Tisdale in a key behind-the-scenes role, according to a report.
Soccer Football – Champions League – Celtic v Slovan Bratislava – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – September 18, 2024
General view inside the stadium before the match REUTERS/Russell Cheyne
Stephen McGowan writes in MailSport that the club want to bring Tisdale in to ramp up its footballing operations.
The 51-year-old has previously described himself as a ‘football doctor’ and works as a self-employed consultant.
Tisdale’s managerial career spanned over 1,000 matches, during which time he took charge of Exeter City, MK Dons, Bristol Rovers, and Stevenage.
He is widely known for giving current Aston Villa and England star Ollie Watkins his big break in football while at Exeter.
Tisdale, though, missed Watkins’ biggest moment of his career so far – his goal to send the Three Lions to the Euros final in the summer – as he was attending Celtic’s pre-season friendly with Queen’s Park.
It remains to be seen what the specific title of the role Tisdale will take up might be, but he is expected to oversee functions such as recruitment, data and coaching development.
The proposed appointment comes after recruitment head Mark Lawell departed the club earlier in the year, along with lead scout Joe Dudgeon.
Manager Brendan Rodgers has previously reinstated the need for an overhaul of the footballing operations at Celtic and could kick things off with the appointment of Tisdale.
Report names ‘Football Doctor’ to take over Lawwell role at Celtic
Paul Tisdale is being targeted to overhaul Celtic’s Recruitment and Development set up.
Brendan Rodgers has been measured in his criticism of the set up that he inherited but after a disastrous summer of recruitment in 2023 the hoops boss seemed to take control in January 2024 with Nicolas Kuhn and Adam Idah proving to be a cut above the previous template of project signings.
In March it was announced that Mark Lawwell, son of Chairman Peter, was leaving his recruitment role but there has been no word from inside the club of a successor or revamped Recruitment set up.
It took Celtic until the final week of the summer 2024 transfer window to get serious over recruitment with Rodgers insisting on a quality threshold.
Plans for January should be well underway with the well connected Stephen McGowan of the Daily Mail reporting:
Celtic are set to bring in former Exeter City boss Paul Tisdale to revamp the club’s football operations.
Describing himself as a ‘football doctor’, 51-year-old Tisdale has been working as a self-employed consultant.
The former Southampton midfielder also coached MK Dons, Bristol Rovers and Stevenage in a managerial career which spanned over 1,000 games in the dug-out.
With head of recruitment Mark Lawwell and chief scout Joe Dudgeon having left Celtic in March, Tisdale has been targeted for a senior role at the Scottish champions, overseeing functions such as recruitment, data and coaching development.
The summer transfer of Matt O’Riley created a trading profit but just as significantly were the moves out of the club of Sead Haksabanovic, Ben Siegrist, Yuki Kobayashi and Oh Hyeon-gyu with loan deals arranged for others recruited by Mark Lawwell such as Kwon Hyeoko-kyu and Gus Lagerbielke with earlier deals completed for Alexandro Bernabei and Marco Tilio to move out the club.
Why Celtic’s youth players must improve their ‘physicality’
Brendan Rodgers (Image: NQ)
Everything Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers said to Celtic TV after his side’s 3-2 win over Sligo Rovers at The Showground…
Brendan, a fantastic occasion here in Sligo. The fans were treated to an entertaining game here – what did you make of it?
It was a really good exercise for us. A lot of our senior players got 90 minutes in their legs which was great. It was much better in the second half than the first, we had better tempo, better rhythm and more speed in our game, so we were very good in the second half. It was excellent to come out here to Ireland against Sligo – it was a great little test for us with how they played and worked, overall, I’m really pleased.
Sligo Rovers played some pretty good football. What did you make of them?
Yeah, very good! You can see why they’re a top-six team in the League of Ireland. They’re fighting for European football and are at a good level of fitness. They passed the ball well and with confidence. It was a really good test, especially for some of our boys who haven’t played for a little bit of time. As the game went on, we were just more aggressive in the game and pushed into a higher starting position and that allowed us to attack a lot more. You saw that a lot more in the second half.
What lessons will the young players take from this game?
I think it’s physicality, and a lot of them need to improve on that aspect. They need to have more running power and get into contention more. They have talent with the ball, but it’s nowhere near enough. That physicality will allow them to play at a higher tempo, but it’s nice for them to feel that and play out there in front of a crowd and play with that personality that you need to play for Celtic. Some of them did really well.
What is the plan between now and next Saturday?
We’ve got a couple of free days. I’ve got a foundation event down in London with the club, so I’m looking forward to that. A little bit of rest, but then planning ahead for that really exciting game against Aberdeen. I’m really looking forward to that, we will have a couple of days to recover. It’s been a long period of games – seven games in 23 days – so some recovery time then we’ll look forward to having everyone back for the Aberdeen game.
Celtic set to make Football Operations appointment
Paul Tisdale, manager of Exeter City prior to the Emirates FA Cup Second Round Replay between Exeter City and Forest Green at St James Park on December 12, 2017. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Celtic expected to appoint former Exeter City boss Paul Tisdale who will oversee football operations at the club…
Paul Tisdale the manager of Bristol Rovers looks on during the Emirates FA Cup match between Bristol Rovers and Darlington FC at the Memorial Stadium on November 29, 2020 (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Following the departures of both Joe Dudgeon and Mark Lawwell in March, Celtic have been on the lookout for a new Head of Recruitment. Tisdale, who since his departure from EFL League 2 club Stevenage in 2022, has been working as a self-employed football consultant.
According to a report in the Daily Mail, the Englishman is being targeted for a role which will see him be at the forefront of recruitment, coaching development and data.
A self-confessed ‘football doctor’ Tisdale has previously managed in the lower leagues of English Football. He racked up more than 1000 games as a manager between 2001-2022 with Team Bath, Exeter City, MK Dons, Bristol Rovers and Stevenage.
Paul Tisdale manager of Milton Keynes Dons during the Sky Bet League One match between Milton Keynes Dons and AFC Wimbledon at Stadium mk on September 07, 2019 (Photo by Paul Harding/Getty Images)
The Hoops have failed to get this vacancy right in recent seasons. Lee Congerton, Gordon Strachan (for a three-month period in 2021), Nick Hammond, Mark Lawwell and Joe Dudgeon have all made little impact in organising a modern football structure off the pitch.
Tisdsle also has experience in a similar type of role with Dutch side Ado Den Haag building a sustainable model and clean up in their football operational side.
READ THIS…
Celtic CEO Michael Nicholson at Dingwall on Sunday . Photo Vagelis Georgariou
An exciting appointment, and one that can relieve the pressures of CEO Michael Nicholson and manager Brendan Rodgers who shared transfer responsibilities this summer. A dedicated person in a sporting director job is required and, Tisdale looks set to become that man.
EXCLUSIVE: ‘Football doctor’ Tisdale set for senior role at Celtic
Former Exeter boss is being targeted by Scottish champions as they seek to improve recruitment, data, and player and coach development
Tisdale previously advised Fulham and Crystal Palace, and gave Ollie Watkins his big break at Exeter
The 51-year-old self-employed consultant has been described as ‘the most stylish man in football’
Celtic are set to bring in former Exeter City boss Paul Tisdale to revamp the club’s football operations.
Describing himself as a ‘football doctor’, 51-year-old Tisdale has been working as a self-employed consultant.
The former Southampton midfielder also coached MK Dons, Bristol Rovers and Stevenage in a managerial career which spanned over 1,000 games in the dug-out.
With head of recruitment Mark Lawwell and chief scout Joe Dudgeon having left Celtic in March, Tisdale will be charged with overseeing a review of functions such as recruitment, data and player and coach development.
‘I work as what I call a football doctor,’ he recently told a scouting podcast. ‘I go into football clubs and I try to find performance-improvement solutions using data and also my experience as a coach.
‘I can translate very well from the boardroom to the pitch, and from the pitch to the boardroom, and also deliver CPD (continuous professional development) or coach mentoring.
Described as ‘the most stylish man in football’, Tisdale looks to be on his way to Celtic
Paul Tisdale cut quite a dash on the sidelines in his time as a manager
The Parkhead club want Tisdale to advise on key areas including recruitment
‘I’m currently into a period where I am doing a bit of a lot of things, waiting for one thing really to take off. (It’s) keeping me busy and I am self employed with my own business and really enjoying it.’
Once described as ‘the most stylish man in football’, Tisdale has previously advised Fulham and Crystal Palace. As a coach, he gave Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins his first-team break at Exeter, but missed the striker’s winning goal for England against the Netherlands at Euro 2024 because he was taking in a match between Queen’s Park and Celtic.
Consultant Tisdale has also given advice to clubs like Fulham and Crystal Palace
Tisdale was a manager at Exeter, MK Dons, Bristol Rovers and Stevenage
Speaking to talkSPORT the morning after, he said: ‘I was delighted but I was actually at Queen’s Park last night for the pre-season game against Celtic and I was in the boardroom afterwards. When Ollie came on the pitch as a substitute I had a feeling he would score. But I didn’t want to start screaming if he did, so I ran out to the car. I actually missed it because of that.’
Celtic have gone down a similar route before, drafting in former manager Gordon Strachan on a three-month consultancy basis in 2021.
Working as Dundee technical director at the time, Strachan reviewed the club academy, women’s team and B team operations, providing recommendations to former chief executive Dom McKay.
Palma hat-trick bails out Bain as Celtic snatch victory in Sligo
Celtic staged a trademark late rally to come from behind to defeat Sligo Rovers 3-2 tonight in a friendly at The Showgrounds.
Luis Palma had opened the scoring in the ninth minute but left it late with goals in the 89th and 92nd minutes to deny the League of Ireland side a famous victory.
Palma, Yang Hyun-jun, Luke McCowan, Stephen Welsh and Maik Nawrocki provided the experience in the Celtic side but Scott Bain was the fall guy with two badly conceded goals to give Sligo a half-time lead.
90+2′ – Another Goal for Celtic!
Palma grabs his hat-trick late on! ?
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) October 9, 2024
The home side dominated the first half after going behind to Palma’s back post opener- a move that he would repeat in the closing stages.
Kailin Barlow equalised in the 13th minute with a high effort that Bain flapped at as it fell over his head into the net.
Four minutes later Simon Power tried his luck with a low 25 yard shot that Bain lost low to his right hand post.
After the break Celtic dominated the match, substitute Sean McArdle caught the eye with neat touches and vision in the centre of the park but it was Honduran internationalist Palma that snatched the win in front of a relaxed and appreciative crowd.
Sligo Rovers: McGinty, Morahan, Denham, Wiggett, Hutchinson, Henry-Francis, Malley, Barlow, Fitzgerald, Pearce, Power.
Subs: Brush, Mooney, McElroy, Mahon, Radosaljevic, Malone, Muldoon, McDonagh, Reynolds.
Celtic: Bain, Agbaire (Bonetig 61), Welsh, Nawrocki, Valle (Robertson 45), McCowan, Turley, Bonnar (McArdle 61), Yang, Palma, Dobbie (Isiguzo 61).
Subs: Morrison, Rice, Dargie, Davidson, Cannon, Haddow.
Aberdeen’s Celtic Park Allocation
Aberdeen fans are set to descend on Celtic Park for the crucial top-of-the-table clash on October 19. It’s now been confirmed that 1,150 Dons supporters will be in attendance, with Aberdeen selling out their full away allocation for what promises to be one of the most significant encounters between the two clubs in recent years.
The travelling fans will add extra spice to an already electric atmosphere, with Celtic also selling out their home tickets for this high-stakes fixture.
While Celtic sit at the top of the table on goal difference, Aberdeen’s resurgence has caught the eye, and their fans will no doubt believe their side can pull off an upset.
Soccer Football – Champions League – Celtic v Slovan Bratislava – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – September 18, 2024
General view of a corner flag inside the stadium before the match REUTERS/Russell Cheyne
The packed Celtic Park crowd of nearly 60,000, including the loud Aberdeen contingent, will create an unforgettable setting for what’s shaping up to be the game of the season so far.
Given the form of both teams and their position in the league, this encounter feels bigger than your average fixture. With a healthy rivalry between the clubs, the presence of over a thousand Dons fans in the corner of Celtic Park will only add to the tension.
There could have been an argument for giving Aberdeen more briefs, but Celtic put out the last of their tickets late last week, so there’s no room to accommodate them now. Celtic will go into the game as favourites, but Aberdeen have shown so far that they never quite go away. Even when they looked like they might drop points they find the win.
Watch: Duo of Calamitous Scott Bain Errors Against Sligo
Celtic goalkeeper Scott Bain was suspect for two goals this evening as the Hoops beat Sligo Rovers 3-2.
Soccer Football – Champions League – Group E – Atletico Madrid v Celtic – Metropolitano, Madrid, Spain – November 7, 2023 Celtic’s Scott Bain reacts before the match REUTERS/Juan Medina
The Bhoys headed across the Irish Sea to take on the Rovers in a mid-season friendly at the Showgrounds tonight.
Manager Brendan Rodgers fielded a team mixed with senior fringe players and exciting academy prospects.
Although Luis Palma put the visitors ahead early doors with a back-post-tap-in, strikes from Kailin Barlow and Simon Power turned the game on its head. Palma, though, scored twice late on to give the Celts a dramatic win.
The Honduran winger will undoubtedly take acclaim for tonight, but focus will surround stopper Bain, who was at fault for two goals.
Barlow’s shot from inside the box, which looked like a simple effort for Bain to deal with, ended up in the back of the net to draw Sligo level in the first half.
The third-choice Celtic ‘keeper fumbled the ball in, much to the delight of the home fans:
Scott Bain hahahahahaha
— Barry McCann (@Bazzinho9) October 9, 2024
Soon after they drew themselves level, Sligo took the lead. Power’s strike from a distance beat Bain at his near post:
Is Scott Bain actually serious
— Barry McCann (@Bazzinho9) October 9, 2024
If the 32-year-old’s position as a fringe player wasn’t already coherent, his performance this evening only reinstated it.
Granted, Bain hasn’t played much football recently, but he should have been doing much better with the two goals he conceded tonight.
Rodgers forced to dig very deep for Sligo squad
Brendan Rodgers will need to dig very deep into the payroll for tonight’s match against Sligo Rovers.
Callum McGregor, Kyogo Furuhashi, Nicolas Kuhn, Luis Palma and Luke McCowan are available for the friendly match but beyond that there won’t be many familiar faces.
Goalkeepers Kasper Schemeichel and Viljami Sinisalo are both away with their countries, Tony Ralston and James Forrest are with Scotland, Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda with Japan with Liam Scales and Adam Idah in the Irish squad.
Stephen Welsh, Maik Nawrocki and Odin Thiago Holm can step up with the B team the next port of call even if they are smarting from losing three goals in the last 10 minutes of Saturday’s match at Bo’ness United.
Three players from the B squad- Mitchell Frame, Josh Dede and Colby Donovan are in the Scotland u-19 squad for friendlies away to Hungary today and on Sunday.
Rodgers will lead the Celtic squad which flies out this morning to face Sligo who are sitting in sixth place in the LOI table, seven points behind leaders Shelbourne but with a game in hand, Sligo drew 0-0 away to Shelbourne in their last match, on September 27.
? Team news! ??
Here is how the young Hoops line-up to face Bo’ness United this afternoon ???#BONCEL | #CelticFC? pic.twitter.com/TarzoikrYU
— Celtic FC B (@CelticFCB) October 5, 2024
Celtic could blow Rangers out of the water after ‘huge’ reveal – Stefan Borson
Celtic could start to outspend Rangers by a “huge” amount if they can consistently secure their place in the knockout rounds of the Champions League.
That is the view of finance expert Stefan Borson, who exclusively told Football Insider a place in the knockout rounds could be worth up to £100million to the Scottish champions.
Celtic lost 7-1 against Borussia Dortmund in their second group stage game on the back of their 5-1 victory over Slovan Bratislava in their opening fixture.
The Glasgow giants still have to make the trips to Atalanta, Dinamo Zagreb and Aston Villa in the competition, while they will face RB Leipzig, Club Brugge and Young Boys at home.
But they are already likely to make significantly more than Rangers from their European exploits due to the difference in prize money on offer in the Champions League compared to the Europa League.
Celtic will increase financial gap to Rangers with European success
Borson insisted Celtic will continue to increase the financial gap between the two Old Firm sides if they can qualify for the knockout rounds of the competition.
He told Football Insider: “Their focus will be ‘Can we win our home games, become a regular in the second phase of the Champions League, start to get £100million per annum and, if we can, then we can start to spend more money on the wage bill’.
“Their key focus then can continually be Champions League, and Rangers will find it very hard to keep up if they manage to do that.
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“That’s the other side to the equation of course.
“If they are outspending Rangers by a huge amount because they have got Champions League, that clearly will give Rangers a problem.
“That won’t be Celtic’s concern, but it will be Scottish football’s concern.”
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