Celtic

Exclusive: Ipswich join race for key Rangers man as ex-Celtic ace tips Rodgers to sign £5m star ‘better than Dembele’

Published

7 months ago

May 5, 2024

Exclusive: Ipswich join race for key Rangers man as ex-Celtic ace tips Rodgers to sign £5m star ‘better than Dembele’

The latest transfer stories involving Celtic and Rangers.

Celtic are edging closer to yet another Premiership title after an impressive 3-0 victory over third placed Hearts.

A double from Kyogo Furuhashi and a penalty from Matt O’Riley helped the champions to secure the points as they continue to pull away from rivals Rangers.

Philippe Clement’s side have the perfect chance to respond later today and will be keen to produce a strong performance against a Kilmarnock side that are unbeaten in the league since the last meeting between the two side’s back in February.

The match could have major implications on the title race as Rangers look to revive their season.

In the meantime we have taken a look at all of the main transfer headlines surrounding both Old-Firm clubs as Rangers face further competition to keep their midfield star, while an ex-Celtic ace tips his old club to make an ambitious £5m move.

Ipswich Town join race for key Rangers man

Ipswich Town are preparing a late move for Rangers ace John Lundstram, who is reportedly in talks with Turkish side Trabzonspor.

Lundstram has been a key player for the Gers in recent seasons. Since joining from Sheffield United, the midfielder has helped the Ibrox club win the Scottish Cup, the Scottish League Cup and has been part of a team which reached the Europa League final.

The Scouser has been a near ever present in Philippe Clement’s side, but his contract is due to expire in the summer and hopes of him remaining at Glasgow are reportedly fading, according to the Scottish Sun.

The outlet claims Kieran McKenna’s Tractor Boys, who recently won promotion back to the Premier League after 22 years, want to add experience for next season, and Lundstram has proven he is capable of playing at a high level after impressive performances both at Bramall Lane and at Ibrox.

Peter Grant tips Celtic to sign £5m striker who is ‘technically better’ than Moussa Dembele

Peter Grant has urged Celtic to sign Adam Idah on a permanent deal this summer and has claimed that his reported £5m valuation would be a bargain for the Parkhead club.

The big frontman, who joined on loan from Norwich City in January, is a lifelong Celtic fan, who has scored seven goals and two assists in his 14 outings for the Hoops.

Grant believes he would be the perfect addition to Brendan Rodgers’ team in the summer and claims Idah is ‘better technically’ than previous starman Moussa Demeble, who was sold to Lyon for a fee of around £20m during Rodgers’ first spell at the club.

Speaking on Go Radio, Grant said: “For £5m? I think so because it is very difficult to get any striker for that type of money. I know he’s not a number nine, but Sammie Smzodics has been scoring a lot of goals, and now you are talking about £15-20m for him at Blackburn who are sitting near the bottom of the league.

“We know what Idah can do and what he offers. He is hungry to score goals and is young. I think if he keeps taking the chances he can get better and more clinical, and you could end up getting big money again.

“Look what happened with Moussa Dembele. And I think he (Idah) is technically better than Moussa. They are different types of players but technique wise I think he brings that to his game as well.”

Video: The Ridiculous VAR Moment at Celtic Park

Celtic were comfortable, dominant winners against Hearts on Saturday afternoon. The bhoys delivered a display we’ve been waiting for all season where they made sure their opponents didn’t have a chance of winning the game.

Celtic stormed to a 2-0 lead in the first half against Hearts on Saturday and while the third goal didn’t come until late on, the result was never in doubt.

However, the penalty to Celtic provided a fantastic example of referees now relying on technology to make the decisions rather than making the call in the moment.

Kevin Clancy had the chance to point to the spot on Saturday afternoon without needing any assistance whatsoever. However, he chose to let the play run after Lawrence Shankland handled the ball blatantly in his own box. Celtic fans, the players and even Shankland knew what was coming. When the ball went out of play there was a fraction of a moment before Clancy was running to the screen.

If we could hear the audio it would likely have been ‘mate, go to the screen, you’ve made an a*se of that one’. As soon as Clancy had gone to the screen, a penalty was awarded.

This isn’t a gripe about VAR in the way it got something wrong, but an example of a referee not doing his job ten feet away from the incident because he knows he has backup.

VAR wasn’t installed for that. I do believe if VAR wasn’t in play Clancy would have pointed to the spot. Referee the game inside the stadium unless it’s a completely contentious issue. Today it was obvious.

SOME SAVE THERE SHANKLAND 😂 PIC.TWITTER.COM/OKQEFRZHZF

— Liam 🇮🇪 (@Liam196788) May 4, 2024

Chris Sutton responds in five words to the massive Celtic victory

Watching from afar Chris Sutton knows just how important today’s 3-0 win over Hearts was for Celtic.

The Edinburgh side have taken six expensive points off Celtic this season and arrived in Glasgow with Scotland’s top scorer intent on inflicting more damage on the hoops.

In the Daily Record this morning Sutton highlighted the danger posed by Lawrence Shankland but after a shot in the opening minute the Hearts skipper barely got a look in.

At the other end of the park Kyogo Furuhashi demonstrated his quality and appetite for the big occasion with two clinical finishes in the first 25 minutes, a period in which Hearts had as much possession as the hosts.

Huge result that for Celtic !

— Chris Sutton (@chris_sutton73) May 4, 2024

The third goal remained elusive until the 87th minute but that ensured that Celtic remained in top gear as they pushed and pressed for the goal to finally kill off any prospect of a comeback from Hearts.

Sutton will be ringside next Saturday for the Glasgow Derby, since the turn of the year there have been times that the title has looked like slipping away but a victory this time next week will put Celtic at least six points clear with two matches left to play.

Tomorrow Sky Sports will be at Ibrox for the visit of Kilmarnock with Sutton expected to be looking on as the pressure switches on to Phil Clement and his squad.

After a season of grievances from Celtic and other parties, the Scottish FA will utilize a backyard referee.

Scottish FA will use an backyard referee following a season of complaints from Celtic and different parties.

Scottish FA set to carry in referee outsider after season of complaints from Celtic and others

It’s been a fairly abysmal season when it comes to refereeing options in the Scottish Premiership, which Celtic understand as correct as anyone.

So plenty so that the notoriously defensive Scottish FA have been forced to sit down down up and take notice.

Earlier this year it was once announced that Head of Referee Operations Crawford Allan would be leaving his role at the affiliation and that a assessment of approaches would be taking place.

That got here after pretty a few complaints from clubs up and down the division that refereeing wasn’t up to standard, broadly speaking concerning the use of video technology.

Now, any character from outdoor the Scottish footballing bubble is set to be appointed in an try to improve the rely from subsequent season.

Scottish FA ambitions former Premier League ref

The Scottish Sun reports that former English Premier League referee Jon Moss is the essential candidate to come to be the SFA’s new head of referees, changing Allan.

Moss used to be a referee for 23 years, which include over a decade in the Premier League, before retiring two years ago.

In the time considering that he’s had time out as a team supervisor on England’s specialist recreation board, critiquing referee performances after matches.

He left that function in March and is now in line to go north of the border to assist type out the scenario up here.

SFA have a lot to prove and Celtic will be watching

It’s difficult to be aware of how an lousy lot have an effect on the SFA’s ongoing refereeing assessment and sparkling appointments will have till we see the proof out on the field. It’s not as if they have earned the goodwill of supporters.

It would be a advantageous to see all people from outside Scottish soccer come in with a sparkling pair of eyes at the department. Referees in Scotland have frequently been accused of being too cliquey and searching out for their own. Moss may also additionally right shake matters up a bit.

Time will tell on all this, alternatively we understand Celtic will be observing closely as always.

Brendan Rodgers has made it clear this season he’ll be calling out grievances when they arise.

Scottish FA will use an backyard referee following a season of complaints from Celtic and different parties.

Scottish FA set to carry in referee outsider after season of complaints from Celtic and others

It’s been a fairly abysmal season when it comes to refereeing options in the Scottish Premiership, which Celtic understand as correct as anyone.

So plenty so that the notoriously defensive Scottish FA have been forced to sit down down up and take notice.

Earlier this year it was once announced that Head of Referee Operations Crawford Allan would be leaving his role at the affiliation and that a assessment of approaches would be taking place.

That got here after pretty a few complaints from clubs up and down the division that refereeing wasn’t up to standard, broadly speaking concerning the use of video technology.

Now, any character from outdoor the Scottish footballing bubble is set to be appointed in an try to improve the rely from subsequent season.

Scottish FA ambitions former Premier League ref

The Scottish Sun reports that former English Premier League referee Jon Moss is the essential candidate to come to be the SFA’s new head of referees, changing Allan.

Moss used to be a referee for 23 years, which include over a decade in the Premier League, before retiring two years ago.

In the time considering that he’s had time out as a team supervisor on England’s specialist recreation board, critiquing referee performances after matches.

He left that function in March and is now in line to go north of the border to assist type out the scenario up here.

SFA have a lot to prove and Celtic will be watching

Time will tell on all this, alternatively we understand Celtic will be observing closely as always.

Brendan Rodgers has made it clear this season he’ll be calling out grievances when they arise.

Video: The Ridiculous VAR Moment at Celtic Park

Celtic have been comfortable, dominant winners in opposition to Hearts on Saturday afternoon. The bhoys delivered a display we’ve been ready for all season the place they made positive their opponents didn’t have a risk of prevailing the game.

Celtic stormed to a 2-0 lead in the first 1/2 in opposition to Hearts on Saturday and while the 0.33 goal didn’t come until late on, the end result was by no means in doubt.

However, the penalty to Celtic provided a top notch instance of referees now relying on technology to make the decisions as an alternative than making the call in the moment.

Kevin Clancy had the chance to factor to the spot on Saturday afternoon besides wanting any assistance whatsoever. However, he selected to let the play run after Lawrence Shankland treated the ball blatantly in his personal box. Celtic fans, the players and even Shankland knew what used to be coming. When the ball went out of play there was once a fraction of a second before Clancy used to be going for walks to the screen.

If we may want to hear the audio it would in all likelihood have been ‘mate, go to the screen, you’ve made an a*se of that one’. As quickly as Clancy had gone to the screen, a penalty was awarded.

This isn’t a gripe about VAR in the way it got something wrong, however an example of a referee now not doing his job ten ft away from the incident due to the fact he is aware of he has backup.

VAR wasn’t hooked up for that. I do consider if VAR wasn’t in play Clancy would have pointed to the spot. Referee the sport inner the stadium except it’s a completely contentious issue. Today it was once obvious.

SOME SAVE THERE SHANKLAND 😂 PIC.TWITTER.COM/OKQEFRZHZF

— Liam 🇮🇪 (@Liam196788) May 4, 2024

Today Without a doubt, we had been watching Glasgow Celtic perform today.

Celtic in the end produce the type of football we have been ready all season for…

Celtic became up these days towards a Hearts side who have induced us problems all season understanding that nothing much less than a win would suffice. They delivered no longer solely the tons needed three factors on offer, however also treated the followers to one of the exceptional performances of the season.

Most of us would have been searching at the post break up fixtures a few weeks in the past and predicted that one of our hardest video games would be today’s fit against Hearts. We needn’t have worried. Today the real Celtic turned up and when this team is in full drift there is in reality no crew in Scotland who can get anywhere close to us.

I’m no longer ashamed to say I was gutted when Ange Postecoglou left us at the end of remaining season. Although Ange himself was a likeable man and a profitable manager it wasn’t losing the man that I was once most upset by, it used to be the notion of dropping the company of soccer we had nurtured underneath the Australian. That free flowing, attack minded, ‘we in no way stop’ fashion that we all cherished to see week after week. Today, for the first time beneath Brendan Rodgers, it felt like it had in the end returned.

Kyogo Furuhashi celebrates scoring our opening intention during the Scottish Premiership suit between Celtic and Hearts at Celtic Park on May 04, 2024.

Today used to be just one of those days when the entirety clicked. We subsequently produced that complete 90 minute performance. Every single participant played their part. The crowd was truely sizeable throughout. Honestly it felt like a change had been hit and all at once the overall performance we understand these players are capable of subsequently transpired.

It only took us to May however nowadays need to be one of the first times at some stage in this marketing campaign that Brendan Rodgers has appeared out onto that pitch and watched as his players subsequently delivered the type of football he and the rest of us have been craving for all season.

Now let’s go onto some of the gamers who deserve our full reward this nighttime and we will start with our retiring hero between the sticks, Joe Hart. Like many of our displays underneath Ange Postecoglou, though we had been dominant at some point of we did hand the opposition possibilities but happily for us we had in goals a goalkeeper decided to give up his profession on a high.

Hart pulled off three pinnacle saves for the duration of this sport that proved to all people that he is nonetheless extra than succesful of running at the best possible level. We are going to pass over this man when he’s gone.

Celtic CEO Michael Nicholson is viewed at some stage in the Scottish Premiership healthy between Celtic and Hearts at Celtic Park on May 04, 2024. (Photo via Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Last week I wondered our midfield three, who I thinking looked completely out of sorts against Dundee, however my god did they prove what they are all about today. It looks like we have waited all season to have our three exceptional midfielders all playing together. Hatate, O’Riley and McGregor on paper are a dream triumvirate at the coronary heart of our group but for whatever reason seems to have been out of varieties over these past few weeks but nowadays they proved what a force they can be when all suit and wholly firing.

Matt O’Riley congratulates Kyogo Furuhashi after he rankings his 2d goal throughout the Scottish Premiership suit between Celtic and Hearts at Celtic Park on May 04, 2024. (Photo by way of Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Captain McGregor has finally shaken off the ring rust and was once looking each bit the warrior we be aware of he is. He used to be excellent as the maintaining midfielder today, making some fantastic tackles and giving the Hearts attackers genuinely no room to breathe whilst also orchestrating attacking performs from deep inside the Celtic half.

When Hatate came returned from all his early season accidents we have been waiting for him to show he’s one of this groups biggest skills but he has been a bit underwhelming in all honesty, until today that is. He confirmed the type of dynamism our midfield has been missing all season to put in his fantastic overall performance so some distance this campaign.

O’Riley has been a shadow of himself considering that the flip of the year however these days showed the kind of form that attracted the interest of La Liga giants Atletico Madrid and has him in the strolling for player of the year. His usual play used to be amazing and his ball for the 2d aim used to be a element of absolute beauty. His penalty used to be dispatched with aplomb and everything he did today showed that he is without problems well worth £20m when he does ultimately leave these shores.

One remaining participant who deserves excessive reward is our man up top, Kyogo. The Japanese big name who has struggled at factors at some point of this campaign and has even been dropped at instances showed he’s nevertheless the exceptional striker in the u . s . a . through a clear distance. On the contrary facet of the pitch nowadays used to be Lawrence Shankland, who will most in all likelihood give up up top goalscorer in the Scottish Premiership, however there is no doubt that we nonetheless possess the best goal scorer in the division.

When he receives the carrier the wee man is unstoppable, it’s just a pity the furnish to him from his teammates has been properly under par this season. The first aim summed him up, the speedy teach of idea to jet into that function is a ability that different gamers dream of having. His 2nd showed how lethal he is with the goal at his mercy. A remarkable all round performance from start to finish.

Some save there shankland 😂 pic.twitter.com/OKQefRZHzf

— Liam 🇮🇪 (@Liam196788) May 4, 2024

Now we cross on to subsequent weekend the place we have the opportunity to wrap the league up against our biggest rivals in the front of a packed and raucous Celtic Park. If we play like we did today we will sincerely blow them away. They are on the ropes as the season comes to its climax, let’s deliver the knockout blow and end them off Celtic.

The Exraordinary Celtic locker room is aware that Elena Sadiku would be quite rude if she didn’t give them pelters.

Celtic dressing room knows Elena Sadiku would be speakme RUBBISH if she did not provide them pelters

Kelly Clark hopes it’s the boot up the bottom the Hoops need beforehand of Monday’s SWPL title showdown with Rangers

Celtic Manager Elena Sadiku

Celtic skipper Kelly Clark insists Elena Sadiku was once well within her rights to supply the gamers pelters after remaining weekend’s Scottish Cup semi-final defeat to Rangers.

And she hopes it’s the boot up the backside the Hoops need in advance of Monday’s SWPL title showdown with Rangers. Scotland big name Clark said: “I don’t assume Elena stated some thing to us that we didn’t understand ourselves. As expert footballers you don’t need told that you have performed badly. You comprehend yourself. We very rapidly had to dirt ourselves off and we’ve performed that.

“Elena could have stated remaining weekend that we had been unfortunate to lose and we would all have acknowledged that she used to be speakme rubbish. We knew ourselves that we weren’t excellent enough and there was nothing that she said publicly that wasn’t discussed in the changing room after the game.”

Celtic followed that up with a draw towards Glasgow City on Wednesday. With Rangers then beating Hearts it means that it’s honours even at the top in advance of the meeting at Broadwood.

Celtic have a best goal difference of 13 with 4 video games to go. And Clark insists the midweek draw changed nothing about their preparations. “We have 4 large games to go,” stated Clark. “It is about having the equal strategy to all of them. I understand humans will be searching at it and announcing that this is the decider but I wouldn’t be amazed if that isn’t how it plays out. It may sound boring but it is a sport at a time. You seem too some distance ahead and you will stumble.

“We know that we have a massive 90 minutes ahead of us in opposition to Rangers and then we will see what happens from there. ”

Meanwhile, Rangers midfielder Rachel Rowe insists the Ibrox side will take a big confidence raise from final weekend’s win over Celtic into tomorrow’s meeting. She said: “Playing for a club like Rangers comes with prevailing trophies and leagues year in, 12 months out. That is the expectation.

“We have lacked a bit of consistency these days but remaining Saturday’s sport will increase us right lower back up.”

Greg Taylor is a fan of this current streak of games’ “added edge.” Now that focus is on Rengers

Greg Taylor adores the ‘added edge’ of this run of games, As attention turns to Rengers

Greg Taylor is no stranger to success at Celtic, nor is the Scotland worldwide unfamiliar with the pressures tied to this end of the season.

At 26, the left-sided full-back is one of Brendan Rodgers’ most pro players, having already won two domestic trebles in Scotland, and having locked horns with Europe’s elite in the UEFA Champions League in latest years.

With sixteen Glasgow derbies under his belt to date, Taylor knows what it takes to win against Rangers, and likewise is aware of the sting of falling short in opposition to your city opponents – and how a whole lot it takes to dirt your self down and select your self returned up thereafter.

The former situation is, of course, what the 26-year-old is targeting in his side’s next match, when Celtic play host to its neighbours at Celtic Park in the sides’ fourth and ultimate Scottish Premiership encounter of the 2023/24 campaign.

On Saturday, Celtic overcame Hearts with an emphatic 3-0 win at Celtic Park, while Rangers play Kilmarnock at 1pm on Sunday at Ibrox.

Come the remaining whistle of the remaining day of the season, the outcomes in these games will matter. But till then, Taylor remains laser-focused on the next. And that simply takes place to be a especially large one.

“This is the business end, this is when the trophies are passed out and you want to be at the pinnacle of your game and be proper on it,” stated Taylor. “You try to revel in it. The instruction and training at some stage in the week is notably consistent and similar to the relaxation of the season.

“But you do be aware of that there is an introduced aspect come the weekend due to the fact we are getting into the remaining few games and there is so a great deal at stake.

“I have proper journey in the fixture now and I enjoy taking part in in them. You are up in opposition to a good opponent and there is always pressure.

“But the extra you play in the games, the extra you recognize that although you are eager and desperate to do well, you can’t get caught up in the construct up.

“Making certain you don’t waste your strength on all that at some point of the week is important.”

Greg Taylor at Celtic Park (Image: SNS)
Round-the-clock information and the ubiquitousness of social media makes no longer getting caught up in the build-up hard for day-to-day fans, but Greg Taylor adores the ‘added edge’ of this run of video games and understands that awareness and center of attention are a huge part of his job, on and off the pitch.

The defender admits that fans have each right to be excited, to revel in the twists and turns of any given season, but once more stresses the want for the gamers to remain on the level as plenty as possible, mainly when there’s a full week’s well worth of instruction to be undertaken.

Come match day, though, Taylor appears forward to taking part in in the front of the Paradise faithful – this game, like each and every other domestic come across between the sides this season, will be performed in the front of a full house of home fans.

Taylor added: “Having the stadium full of Celtic supporters is a massive improve for us and we are searching ahead to that.

“But we additionally understand that a right performance is required and we are focused on getting three points. [The last game] was a proper advert for Scottish football. Of direction we wanted to come away with the win [at Ibrox] but it was once a challenging environment and a lot used to be going on.”

READ MORE: Liam Scales says he’d love to end his career at Celtic

How Celtic line up in opposition to their competitors on Saturday stays to be seen, however with the likes of James Forrest re-entering the starting 11 ultimate weekend, with Liam Scales having signed a new four-year extension, and with Daizen Maeda having made a remarkable comeback well in advance of schedule, Brendan Rodgers’ squad is in impolite health at present.

On Scales, Taylor added: “I am delighted for Liam. He has had a honestly proper season. When he first came back from Aberdeen, he likely didn’t assume to be involved as an awful lot as he has.

“That would be a practical remark but he’s worked challenging and taken the threat when it came. All savings to him, he’s finished so nicely and deserves his new deal.

“He put in the difficult yards, went to Aberdeen and did well, and then came back simply hoping to get an opportunity.”

“Some boys don’t get that probability but his came and he took it.”

Taylor echoed a comparable sentiment with long-serving teammate Forrest. He said: “What a player and what a guy. James is a desirable friend, a splendid team-mate and I am so thrilled for him.

“He is the mannequin expert and anybody who has worked so challenging over the direction of the season. James was in a one-of-a-kind situation. He has loads of journey at the membership but likely much less opportunities than he would have wanted.

“But when the commercial enterprise cease of the marketing campaign comes around, he is one that all people is aware of you can hang your hat on.

“James has been splendid on account that coming into the team.”

Greg Taylor praises a candidate for POTY: “Matt is the obvious winner.”

Matt O’Riley’s fantastic structure for Celtic this campaign has earned him a nomination for the PFA Scotland Player of the Year. For teammate Greg Taylor, the Denmark worldwide is the clear frontrunner for the award.

With 15 goals in all competitions beneath his belt so a long way this season, as nicely as 17 assists (including one of each in Saturday’s 3-0 victory over Hearts) the central midfielder has excelled under Brendan Rodgers during the 2023/24 trail, with personal and collective success now nicely inside reach.

In Taylor’s view, it’s not just his 23-year-old teammate’s stats that have accelerated his game above the rest, but the consistency with which he is conducted himself week-in, week-out – right from the begin of the season through to this last stretch of games.

READ MORE: O’Riley reveals the Butland intel that stimulated Rangers vs Celtic Panenka

In extra recent weeks, this consistency has seen O’Riley score beneath stress from the spot at Ibrox with a Panenka penalty, and find the net each at some stage in open play and in the throes of the thrilling shootout in opposition to Aberdeen in the semi-final of the Scottish Cup at Hampden.

With goal contributions across the Scottish Premiership, League Cup, Scottish Cup, and UEFA Champions League this year, it’s handy to see why Taylor feels this way.

“In my eyes, Matt is the clear winner,” Taylor said. “His performances have been so regular during the yr and I comprehend it would be a massive honour for him.

“It would be superb for Matt that his fellow authorities have voted him as participant of the year. It would be totally deserved too.”

Taylor added: “Matt has been so constant for us in huge games and scored large goals. He’s also one who devotes his complete lifestyles to the game, like most boys do now.

“But when you see any one get success off the back of that, you can truly appreciate it and be blissful for them.”

Scotland forward dismissed for disciplinary reasons as a potential Euro 2024 participant fails to meet “culture and standards”

Scotland striker dropped for disciplinary motives as Euro 2024 hopeful falls brief of ‘culture and standards’

Ex-Hibs superstar axed from squad for final in shape of Championship season

Scotland striker Kevin Nisbet was dropped from the Millwall matchday squad for Saturday’s 1-0 win at Swansea due to disciplinary reasons.

Lions head coach Neil Harris defined the situation after each Nisbet and Michael Obafemi have been mysteriously absent from the remaining Championship conflict of the season.

Former Hibs striker Nisbet has solely lately again from a hamstring harm and made his first appearance considering February off the bench in the 1-0 win over Plymouth remaining weekend.

Scotland striker Kevin Nisbet used to be dropped by means of Millwall for the ultimate suit of the season due to disciplinary reasons. (Photo by using Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

The 27-year-old has 11 caps and used to be referred to as up to the Scotland squad previously in the campaign but has neglected out on a last chance to impress Steve Clarke ahead of naming his provisional 26-man squad for Euro 2024 later this month.

Millwall boss Harris said: “All I’m going to say is I’m constructing a subculture and an environment at the soccer club. The requirements are set by way of Neil Harris and Millwall Football Club. These are requirements that I expect players to adhere to. Players will solely be involved at my soccer club, when I’m in charge, if they hit those standards. It’s all about culture and environment.

“Michael has accomplished brilliantly for us on mortgage and we’re definitely grateful for his efforts. He didn’t function for us off the bench the different day he wasn’t going to characteristic today. I’d instead play our own gamers who have skilled impeccably.

“And secondly, with Kevin, it’s a disciplinary matter about subculture and standards. There’s no better trouble transferring forward. Kevin is a big part of our football club shifting forward. But it wasn’t proper to involve him these days so I went with the crew that I did.”

Millwall signed Nisbet from Hibs remaining summer time in a £2m deal that includes great add-ons and a sell-on fee. He has scored five dreams in 29 appearances for the Londoners this season.

Daizen Maeda’s sentimental response to the reintroduction of Celtic

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – : Nathaniel Atkinson of Hearts vies with Daizen Maeda of Celti all through the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Celtic FC and Heart of Midlothian at Celtic Park Stadium on May 04, 2024 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by means of Ian MacNicol/Getty Images) (Photo by means of Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Daizen Maeda has said that he was moved by means of the reaction from the Celtic aid as he returned to action. The Japanese attacker’s season appeared to be over after a hamstring harm in opposition to Rangers at Ibrox however in usual Maeda fashion, he defied expectations and bought himself lower back fit.

Taking to Twitter/X, Maeda printed that he used to be moved via the help from the stands as he made his return to action.

I was once moved via the cheers the second I entered the pitch.💚🤍
Thank you to all my followers and supporters!
I’m prepared for the next game!⚡️✌️ https://t.co/9y6VO5xxyg

— 前田大然 Daizen Maeda (@M_daizen_1020) May 5, 2024

Celtic have been gorgeous as they gained 3-0 in opposition to Hearts to set up next weekend’s Glasgow Derby towards Rangers. The return of Maeda is a massive raise for a wide variety of reasons but especially because of his capacity to torment Rangers captain James Tavernier.

The ecosystem at Celtic Park was once splendid and the supervisor will be eager that his facet can continue this subsequent weekend and set up an exquisite give up to the season.

Here’s the second that Maeda made his return to action…

Daizen Maeda’s return towards Hearts 👌 pic.twitter.com/OIjMyZPQ6Y

— CeltsAreHere (@HereCelts) May five 2024

Born just as Celtic have been stopping the Ten, Lubo98 follows Celtic domestic and away and helps run his local Celtic Supporters Club. He goes to all the games and is a Law Graduate. Has a unique fondness for Tom Rogic amongst the modern Celts and both Lubo and Henrik shape his earliest Celtic memories.

“Greatest difference”… Hearts manager Steven Naismith pledges a decision based on what he saw from Celtic

“Biggest difference”… Gutted Hearts boss Steven Naismith promises verdict on what he witnessed from Celtic

Hearts have loved a couple of exact days in opposition to Celtic in the Scottish Premiership this season however this afternoon was not one of them.

The Bhoys have been deserved 3-0 winners at a fiery Celtic Park as Brendan Rodgers’ team set their attractions on a superb league and cup double.

Kyogo Furuhashi netted two dreams on the day to convey his normal tally towards the Tynecastle membership to ten dreams in 12 matches. Matt O’Riley was the other scorer after a late penalty rounded off a nice ninety minutes.

Hearts did have possibilities in the suit but Joe Hart used to be on top form to deny them hope and it was once Celtic’s quality that shone thru in the end.

Gutted Hearts boss Steven Naismith admitted that in his post-match interview with BBC Radio Scotland, also referencing the rocking stadium as a thing in the defeat.

Steven Naismith on Celtic win over Hearts

Naismith said: “The end result was disappointing and poor and frustrating. I suppose the overall performance – there used to be hundreds of top stuff – but it’s the small moments. We have the first-class defensive record in the league for set plays but we concede one inside five minutes which is virtually disappointing.

“When you’re coming away to the Celtic or Rangers, you want to try and end that atmosphere constructing because at this time of the season in each and every recreation that start is going to be fast and they’re trying to get a result.

“We shoot ourselves in the foot with the second aim when we have possession and we give it away cheaply. Against the best teams in the league, you’re going to be punished. That’s the largest distinction – their decision-making and their exceptional of finish is there and that’s what inevitably punished us today.

“Their goalie Joe Hart used to be good, I assume he made some truly right saves extra than our negative finishing. But they are massive moments in the game. If you don’t take the chances, Celtic are the best group in the league and most experienced in managing that state of affairs and they did.”

Hearts acquired the real Celtic today

After dropping the remaining two conferences towards Hearts, Celtic had a point to show and they did so. There had been no dodgy refereeing decisions, no damage concerns for the Bhoys and no disconnects between followers and an underwhelming group performance. This used to be the real Celtic.

Everyone knew what a big sport this was in the context of the title race. Hearts might also have confirmed up exceedingly well in that first half duration however Celtic met their electricity and confirmed what they are made of.

If Brendan Rodgers’ group hold it up in the closing run of suits this season then they’ll be tough to cease in the league or cup.

Joe Hart’s Emotional Social Media Tribute to Celtic Supporters

Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart was once full of reward for the Celtic guide after this afternoon’s 3-0 win over Hearts.

Hart made sure to highlight his admiration for the Celtic help with a submit on Instagram.

View this submit on Instagram

A POST SHARED BY JOE HART (@JOEHARTOFFICIAL)

The Englishman absolutely has played his section in Celtic’s latest run of form, with large saves when it mattered most, and this afternoon was once no different.

With Hart set to retire at the give up of the season, he has now not let this have an effect on his performances on the pitch at all.

Hart has truely been a category act at Celtic from begin to finish.

Coming in off the again of Vasilios Barkas, he had to stabilise the Celtic defence, and he did, ending his profession in style in Glasgow with a resurgence beneath both Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers this season.

Hart will go away the membership with everyone’s nice wishes, probably going down as one of the fine English goalkeepers of all time.

One component that units Hart aside is his personality; he gets what it means to play for a football club, making positive to boost a sturdy relationship with supporters.

Like many players, his time at the membership will be remembered even greater fondly when supporters appear lower back in years to come.

Video: Celtic Park’s ludicrous VAR moment

Celtic have been comfortable, dominant winners against Hearts on Saturday afternoon. The bhoys delivered a display we’ve been ready for all season where they made sure their opponents didn’t have a risk of winning the game.

Celtic stormed to a 2-0 lead in the first 1/2 towards Hearts on Saturday and while the 1/3 purpose didn’t come until late on, the end result used to be by no means in doubt.

However, the penalty to Celtic supplied a incredible instance of referees now relying on technology to make the choices rather than making the name in the moment.

Kevin Clancy had the chance to factor to the spot on Saturday afternoon without wanting any assistance whatsoever. However, he selected to let the play run after Lawrence Shankland handled the ball blatantly in his very own box. Celtic fans, the gamers and even Shankland knew what used to be coming. When the ball went out of play there used to be a fraction of a second earlier than Clancy was going for walks to the screen.

If we may want to hear the audio it would probable have been ‘mate, go to the screen, you’ve made an a*se of that one’. As quickly as Clancy had gone to the screen, a penalty used to be awarded.

This isn’t a gripe about VAR in the way it bought something wrong, but an instance of a referee no longer doing his job ten feet away from the incident due to the fact he knows he has backup.

VAR wasn’t hooked up for that. I do accept as true with if VAR wasn’t in play Clancy would have pointed to the spot. Referee the sport internal the stadium except it’s a completely contentious issue. Today it was obvious.

SOME SAVE THERE SHANKLAND 😂 PIC.TWITTER.COM/OKQEFRZHZF

— Liam 🇮🇪 (@Liam196788) May 4, 2024

Chris Sutton responds in five words to the massive Celtic victory

Watching from afar Chris Sutton knows just how important today’s 3-0 win over Hearts was for Celtic.

The Edinburgh facet have taken six high priced factors off Celtic this season and arrived in Glasgow with Scotland’s pinnacle scorer intent on inflicting greater injury on the hoops.

In the Daily Record this morning Sutton highlighted the hazard posed by way of Lawrence Shankland however after a shot in the opening minute the Hearts skipper barely obtained a seem in.

At the different stop of the park Kyogo Furuhashi confirmed his exceptional and appetite for the massive event with two medical finishes in the first 25 minutes, a duration in which Hearts had as lots possession as the hosts.

Huge result that for Celtic !

— Chris Sutton (@chris_sutton73) May 4, 2024

The 0.33 intention remained elusive until the 87th minute however that ensured that Celtic remained in pinnacle gear as they pushed and pressed for the aim to subsequently kill off any prospect of a comeback from Hearts.

Sutton will be ringside next Saturday for the Glasgow Derby, considering the fact that the turn of the year there have been instances that the title has appeared like slipping away but a victory this time next week will put Celtic at least six factors clear with two fits left to play.

Tomorrow Sky Sports will be at Ibrox for the visit of Kilmarnock with Sutton expected to be searching on as the stress switches on to Phil Clement and his squad.

Ipswich Town earned a minimum of $3 million from the Celtic freebie: Examine

Daryl Murphy was once signed on a free from Celtic by way of Ipswich and was once offered on to Newcastle for a huge profit.

HIGHLIGHTS

Murphy used to be one of the great Ipswich players in the 2010s, specifically at some stage in the 14/15 playoff season.

After successful mortgage spells, Ipswich signed Murphy on a free transfer, later promoting him for a profit.

Murphy’s 27-goal season helped Ipswich to the playoffs, but he was sooner or later offered to Newcastle for a appropriate fee.

Daryl Murphy used to be one of arguably Ipswich Town’s best gamers in the 2010s even as they had been a Championship stalwart.

The Tractor Boys spent the majority of that length underneath the practise of Mick McCarthy, who used to be in cost at Portman Road from November 2012 till April 2018.

Ipswich would finish in the pinnacle 1/2 of the desk in 4 of his six seasons with the club. One of those was a sixth-placed end in 2014/15, attaining the play-offs, where they had been beaten by means of their biggest rivals Norwich City over two legs.

But McCarthy’s principal man throughout that season was Murphy, who Ipswich made a good quantity of profit on.

Murphy signed for Ipswich on a free after successful loans

Before Murphy’s successful spell with the club in the 2010s, he definitely spent the 2d 1/2 of the 09/10 season on loan at Ipswich from Sunderland.

It then led to his everlasting go away from the Black Cats to Scottish giants Celtic. His time at Celtic Park did now not begin as properly as it used to be hoped to, with him then returning to Ipswich on loan after just a season north of the border.

Murphy would spend the 11/12 and 12/13 seasons on mortgage at Ipswich, however was not the most prolific, scoring eleven desires across these two seasons.

But that did no longer give up Ipswich from making his pass permanent, signing him on a free transfer following the conclusion of his contract at Celtic in the summer season of 2013.

Murphy used to be offered on for earnings by way of Ipswich after a heap of goals

After transferring to East Anglia on a everlasting basis, Murphy observed his capturing boots.

The 2013/14 season would quit with him finding the internet 13 instances in 45 games, as he formed a super partnership with David McGoldrick, with 29 goals scored between them.

But it used to be the 2014/15 season, the play-off campaign, the place Murphy would have his excellent season of his profession – the Irishman scored 27 goals, helping six more.

December would be his great month with six of those dreams coming in that time, winning him the Championship Player of the Month.

His two goals in a 2-1 win away Fulham have been not solely decisive in the result of the recreation but additionally meant he grew to be the first Ipswich player to score 20 league desires in a season on the grounds that Darren Bent in 2005.

The season would subsequently end in play-off failure, but he would earn himself a area in the PFA Championship Team of the Year. Murphy also committed his future to the membership by extending his contract by a further two years.

The 2015/16 season was once now not as prolific for Murphy, scoring just ten goals in 35 league games as they narrowly overlooked out on back-to-back top-six finishes, ending seventh, 5 factors off.

Daryl Murphy’s Ipswich stats (league only, as per FotMob)

Season

Division

Appearances

Goals

Assists

16/17

Championship

15/16

Championship

14/15

Championship

13/14

Championship

12/13

Championship

11/12

Championship

09/10

Championship

Murphy would then go away but made the membership that helped bring up his career £3 million as he was sold to lately relegated Newcastle United.

That represented a best earnings on a participant signed for a free transfer but it bought even higher as they received every other £1 million when Newcastle were promoted returned to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Getting £4 million in profit for Murphy, who was once then 33 years old, was a brilliant bit of enterprise by means of the club.

Jim Duffy announces the winner of the Celtics’ “stand-out” Player of the Year award.

Jim Duffy provides verdict on Celtic’s ‘stand-out’ Player of the Year

As Celtic take a seat properly at the top of the Scottish Premiership with just 4 games left to play, there is nonetheless a lot left to play for this season. Especially with a Scottish Cup Final towards Rangers to come.

With Hearts, Rangers, Kilmarnock and St Mirren nevertheless to play, just 4 wins will make sure the Scottish Premiership trophy stays in the Parkhead boardroom.

But whilst nothing is decided yet in terms of the title, there has been a bit of chat round simply who exactly ought to be named Celtic’s Player of the Year.

With injury making this season challenging in terms of gamers discovering consistency, Jim Duffy is no doubt who ought to be named Celtic’s nice participant this season.

Duffy hails Celtic ‘stand-out’ for end of season award

The former Greenock supervisor has named Matt O’Riley as the participant who has been excellent for Brendan Rodgers this season.

And while Duffy admits that he has been inconsistent, O’Riley is the man who should be recognised for his efforts for Celtic this season.

Duffy said [Superscoreboard], “He’s a player that’s fascinating on the eye. He glides throughout the sport due to the fact he doesn’t run about like a headless rooster careering into tackles.

“He’s a participant who’s obtained a bit of class about him. He’s received a innovative spark, he’s obtained lovely balance, he looks controlled and his consciousness is terrific. So he’s bought an awful lot in his game.

“The situation is, if you seem at last season for instance, and there had been in all likelihood four or 5 Celtic gamers you would have thought may want to be in contention for player of the year.

“But there has been inconsistency, there has been injuries, however O’Riley has been the stand-out player for Celtic.”

With 14 desires and 16 assists this season, O’Riley has without a doubt kicked on under Rodgers. [Transfermarkt]

Goals in the Champions Leauge and in opposition to Rangers have made O’Riley one of Celtic’s biggest purpose threats and it is simple that he has been pivotal in preserving Celtic in the hunt for trophies in a season where damage and inconsistency threatened Celtic’s domination of Scottish football.

To win the championship, Rodgers must daringly discard a five-star Celtic superstar.

Rodgers have to boldly drop 5/10 Celtic megastar to win the title

It would be a massive call for the manager of the Scottish giants to make ahead of the run-in.

HIGHLIGHTS

Celtic secured a 2-1 win at Dundee with James Forrest scoring both goals, moving nearer to another league title.

Brendan Rodgers may additionally want to bench Callum McGregor due to lackluster performance stats and possible influence on title race.

Tomoki Iwata’s strong midfield overall performance suggests he may want to be a better in shape than McGregor if contemporary shape continues ahead of Rangers clash.

Celtic took every other step in the right route to another Scottish Premiership title as they travelled away to Dundee to secure a 2-1 win on Sunday.

The Hoops wanted to report a superb end result after their rivals had received before in the day, and they stepped up to declare all three points on their travels.

Brendan Rodgers opted to carry James Forrest, who FFC urged the manager to start, into the beginning XI on the flank over Hyun-jun Yang and Luis Palma, and it was once a bold call that paid off for the box.

The Scottish forward scored each of Celtic’s desires to put them 2-0 ahead in the match, earlier than Dundee’s comfort goal, which speaks to his importance to the win on the day.

It may now take every other daring call from the Northern Irish tactician, who lower back to Parkhead for a 2d spell at the club ultimate summer, to win the league title ahead of Rangers this season.

After an underwhelming display in the center of the park in opposition to Dundee, Rodgers must boldly drop captain Callum McGregor to the bench to give his facet the exceptional risk of landing the trophy.

Callum McGregor’s performance towards Dundee

The Scotland international made his first league begin after returning from an Achilles injury, which stored him out for three league matches, and failed to exhibit that he deserves to hold his region in the XI.

McGregor performed the opening 62 minutes of the sport earlier than being taken off and failed to make a good deal of an affect with his lack of great in and out of possession.

Glasgow World’s Ben Banks exceeded the skipper a match ranking of 5/10 – the lowest out of the starting group – and described some of his movements as ‘laboured’.

He only completed 82% of his tried passes – 13% lower than Matt O’Riley’s 95% – and ended the healthy without a single hazard created for his teammates, alongside with a 20% long ignore accuracy.

The Scottish whiz also lost possession 11 times from 55 touches of the ball, which indicates that he gave the opposition a threat to get lower back on the ball at times.

McGregor recorded a Sofascore ranking of 6.7 for his display against Dundee, which is significantly lower than his seasonal common of 7.32, which speaks to how below par he was once in contrast to his normal self.

Callum McGregor’s Premiership season in numbers

The skilled midfielder was once currently named in the PFA Scotland Team of the Year, alongside with O’Riley, Cameron Carter-Vickers, and Liam Scales, for his extraordinary exploits in the top-flight this season.

Prior to his latest Achilles injury, the Scotland international had been in wonderful structure in the Premiership with his sublime play in possession for the Hoops.

McGregor ranks third inside the squad for accurate passes per recreation (64.3) and joint-fifth for key passes per healthy (1.5), which illustrates his manipulate and creativity in the center of the park.

He is typically a metronome in midfield for the Scottish giants, which is shown through him topping the chart for passes made per sport within the midfield group, with his capability to find a teammate with his passes at an exceptional 92% success rate.

Callum McGregor

Vs Dundee

23/24 Premiership (per game)

Minutes played

Sofascore rating

6.7

7.32

Pass accuracy

82%

92%

Passes completed

64.3

Key passes

1.5

Long omit accuracy

20%

58%

Stats by using Sofascore

As you can see in the desk above, the 30-year-old superstar was miles away from being at his pleasant towards Dundee, with drastically worse information than normal in possession of the ball.

If the Achilles harm has triggered his overall performance tiers to drop then Celtic cannot afford to be sentimental or hopeful that his performances will turn around when Rangers are respiration down their neck.

The Gers are solely three factors adrift in second location and journey across to Parkhead for an all-Glasgow clash on the 11th of May, after the Hoops play Hearts subsequent weekend.

Therefore, Tomoki Iwata should be unleashed from the start in advance of the captain as his performances this season have been dazzling at the base of the Bhoys midfield.

Why Tomoki Iwata ought to begin for Celtic

The Japanese gem should start at the base of the midfield as McGregor’s performances given that his return from damage do not recommend that he is the man to appear to, unless his shape unexpectedly improves, to lead the team to the title.

That is no longer a large criticism of the Scotland international, as the harm has without a doubt had an effect on his displays, however it is a daring name that the manager may additionally have to make as his sluggishness – as evidenced via his dip in shape – may want to price them in the title run-in.

Iwata has taken his chance when it has come this season and showcased his capability to dictate video games in the middle of the park for the Scottish giants.

The upcoming conflict with Rangers is a practicable title decider, given how close the two teams are in the table, and the 27-year-old metronome was once relied on to begin the sport at Ibrox.

He won five of his eight ground duels throughout the match, as the 27-year-old big name stepped up to the mark from a bodily perspective, at the same time as McGregor – making his comeback from damage – was introduced on with Celtic prevailing 2-1 and the Hoops misplaced the 25 minutes he was once on the pitch 2-1 to give up the recreation 3-3.

It may, therefore, gain the Bhoys to start Iwata when the Gers come to Parkhead in May, if McGregor continues to seem to be rusty after his Achilles issue.

Tomoki Iwata

23/24 Premiership

Appearances

Starts

Pass accuracy

90%

Long pass accuracy

55%

Opposition half pass accuracy

90%

Duel success rate

51%

Stats through Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the Japanese maestro has the pleasant on the ball to replace the captain in phrases of his metronomic play in the middle of the park.

His 90% bypass accuracy indicates that he not often gives possession away to opposition teams, which potential that Rodgers’ side can manipulate the game through no longer making unforced turnovers to give facets a hazard to get back into matches.

This makes him an best replacement for the skipper, who only performed 82% of his passes against Dundee while Iwata completed 95% (21/22) of his off the bench.

That is why the supervisor ought to boldly drop the Scotsman to start the 27-year-old as it could be imperative in Celtic’s bid to win the title in advance of Rangers, mainly with the upcoming game between the two teams.

Daniel is an experienced football author and editor, having labored in the soccer media industry for nearly a decade.

After initially writing for Fresh Press as a volunteer for two years in 2015, assisting to build and establish the Read brand, Daniel commenced a part-time job with Fresh Press that later grew to become into a full-time writing and enhancing role.

Daniel then spent just shy of a year writing and editing for Anfield Watch, which covered conducting and/or transcribing interviews with Liverpool goalkeeping educate John Achterberg, former Wycombe striker Adebayo Akinfenwa, and journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Since the summer season of 2021, Daniel has worked for Snack Media and been a contributor to Football FanCast, on a freelance and full-time groundwork alongside the way, as a author and editor.

Daniel is additionally a big Norwich City fan and season ticket holder. He has been heard on BBC Norfolk and helped DAZN with research for their commentary due to his knowledge of the club, along with being featured in numerous neighborhood papers throughout the country, inclusive of the Coventry Telegraph and the Liverpool Echo, for Norwich-related content.

Watch: Magnificent Video of Joe Hart with Celtic Supporters Following Dundee Victory

Watch: Outstanding Footage of Joe Hart with Celtic Fans After Dundee Win

A remarkable video circulating on social media has captured Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart fully immersing himself in the pleasure of victory with the Celtic supporters, highlighting his deep bond with the Celtic fanbase, in particular the away support.

The footage, taken by way of a fan in the away area at some stage in Celtic’s recent 2-1 victory over Dundee, suggests Hart now not simply as a player, however as a authentic fan of the club he’s served. In the video, Hart can be considered clapping, jumping, and singing alongside with the crowd.

As the season techniques its climax, each and every game is crucial, and the help from the stands is greater fervent than ever. With solely a handful of games left before he retires, Hart’s soaking up the whole lot before he walks off into the sunset.

28th April 2024; Dens Park, Dundee, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Dundee versus Celtic; Celtic fans with a banner after the win

When he first signed for the club, many fans thought we have been getting a brash, over the hill Englishman looking for a last payday. Instead, he’s been humble, tough working, committed and fiercely passionate. What a excellent signing he became out to be.

Michael Stewart looks at Celtic and informs Steve Clarke he wants to reconsider his three-year attitude.

Michael Stewart tells Steve Clarke he desires a rethink on 3-year stance after gazing Celtic

Michael Stewart believes it’s a “no-brainer” for Scotland boss Steve Clarke to choose James Forrest for the upcoming EURO 2024 tournament given his burst of shape at Celtic.

Forrest has netted four goals in his ultimate 5 appearances for the Bhoys, with the trendy double coming towards Dundee in his first start on the grounds that November.

The Celtic winger is showing type and composure in large moments for his club and has been lauded via manager Brendan Rodgers in many media appearances over the ultimate fortnight.

It’s led some to increase the factor of whether or not Forrest should be chosen in a 26-man squad for the summer extravaganza as Scotland face off against Switzerland, Hungary and hosts Germany.

Stewart is adamant he should be involved, regardless of Forrest now not prevailing a cap for his u . s . seeing that the summer season of 2021.

James Forrest’s EURO 2024 chances

The pundit stated on Sportscene: “I’d be questioning about it if it used to be a 23-man squad, by no means idea a 26-man squad.

“These are the kinds of moments he has quality. He has the give up product. He’s in these areas and can recognize where he can affect the game.

“There’s no nervousness, there’s no panicking, he gets into the vicinity and receives a slice of good fortune but it’s just in the again of the net.

“Brendan Rodgers is skirting around the trouble with Scotland speakme about the intensity of the game – I understand what he’s saying and Celtic is his center of attention however if we’re speaking about the national group in the summer, I suppose it’s a no-brainer that James Forrest would be in the squad.

“It’s now not as if right wing-back is his pleasant position and someplace you would prefer to be taking part in him. But with the issues we’re having at right wing-back at the moment, it’s somewhere that Forrest should cowl if he was in the squad. One hundred per cent I would be having him in the squad.”

Extra motivation for Celtic winger

Clarke has been rocked via numerous accidents of late and who makes his final listing is difficult to call at this point.

It would be a surprise to see Forrest come in from the bloodless in the Scotland set-up however if he’s taking part in like this then there’s no reason not to significantly think about him.

The motivation of a league and cup double is no doubt enough, however these types of discussions are absolutely an extra incentive for the Celtic man to continue performing at his peak.

If he can assist hearth the Bhoys to silverware with a regular run in the team, he ought to be on the aircraft to Germany.

Kwon’s absence from St Mirren against Rangers provided clarification.

Kwon’s St Mirren absence in opposition to Rangers clarified

Hyeokku Kwon of St Mirren St Mirren v Rangers, Cinch Scottish Premiership, Football, The SMiSA Stadium, Paisley, UK – 27 Jan 2024. Photo Shutterstock

Kwon Hyeok-kyu will be out for the the rest of the season. The South Korean midfielder was absent for the game between St Mirren and Rangers this afternoon.

As mentioned by BBC Scotland, Stephen Robinson validated the 23-year-old is out for the relaxation of the campaign with a hamstring injury.

“Unfortunately, we’ve lost Kwon for the relaxation of the season with a hamstring injury.”

The protective midfielder has impressed in his time with the Saints. However, he will be hoping that he can get his health lower back up beforehand of pre-season, where he will look to provoke Brendan.

Robinson will possibly choose to see if he can bring the participant back to the membership for next season. This would probable tie in with Celtic’s plans for the 2024/25 season as Brendan is said to be in the market for a new midfielder to play in the deeper role.

Kwon’s compatriots Oh and Yang show up to be moving out of the first team photo at Celtic Park. Oh has not been protected in matchday squads for some weeks while Yang has struggled when he has been giving outings.

Born just as Celtic were stopping the Ten, Lubo98 follows Celtic domestic and away and helps run his nearby Celtic Supporters Club. He goes to all the games and is a Law Graduate. Has a precise fondness for Tom Rogic among the cutting-edge Celts and each Lubo and Henrik structure his earliest Celtic memories.

Tartan Army activity is sparked by James Forrest’s heroics, while Joe Hart’s antics highlight Celtic tension.

Joe Hart antics underline Celtic tension as James Forrest heroics pique activity of Tartan Army

Celtic extend lengthy unbeaten document at Dens Park with 2-1 victory over Dundee

“Iwill see you here in May,” Brendan Rodgers had instead bullishly answered with reference to the doubters following a return he knew used to be not being universally welcomed via the Celtic supporters.

As the month when the honours are exceeded out hoves into view, his side are well positioned to make sure the supervisor won’t be left with egg on his face.

There is a lot of football nonetheless to be played, however with four league video games left Celtic ensured they kept their noses in front at the pinnacle of the Premiership thanks to the evergreen James Forrest’s double against Dundee.

James Forrest evades Dundee’s Jordan McGhee and Ricki Lamie to rating his and Celtic’s second. (Photo by using Craig Foy / SNS Group)

Of course, May is no longer constantly when garlands are presented – this sport fell on the anniversary of Dundee’s sole Scottish league title win on 28 April 1962. The Up Wi’ the Bonnets club song, name-checking the heroes of that afternoon v St Johnstone and played before each domestic match, held a one of a kind resonance. The central character right here was once a current day great. Sadly for Dundee, he was once wearing hoops.

Forrest, 32, is making a well timed return to prominence.

Steve Clarke cannot fail to have had his interest piqued with the aid of such performances as Scotland’s injuries worries mount prior to Euro 2024. All the veteran winger can do is keep doing what he’s began doing, even though he would possibly argue that he could have been doing this a lot quicker had he been given greater of a chance.

He used to be the difference here in solely his first league begin since November.

Celtic’s James Forrest celebrates after scoring the first of his double in the 2-1 win over Dundee. (Photo by using Ross Parker / SNS Group)

A win over Dundee would possibly now not be considered a statement result, especially in view of Celtic’s document at Dens Park. But they were stretched at times with the aid of the Luke McCowan-inspired hosts and were relieved to hear the ultimate whistle.

It is no longer often in recent times that Celtic have been compelled to waste time in this stadium, the place they are now unbeaten in 35 games stretching again to 1988. However, this is what they had been doing in the ultimate moments as Joe Hart played the fool with the Celtic fans in the Bob Shankly Stand in the back of him.

The goalkeeper twice very deliberately waited for the supporters to return a ball when there was once already one sitting in his six-yard box. After the second of these occasions referee John Beaton brandished a yellow card in his face.

His antics underlined the anxiety and the excellent margins as Celtic are seeking for to keep Rangers at bay. Two 2-1 wins for each title rivals ability it’s as you had been at the top.

“You play for us and we’ll sing for you,” promised the away followers at the quit via a large banner. They had been simply authentic to their phrase – they barely let up all through the ninety minutes. But whether or not the gamers were usually deserving of this electricity of help is a moot point. Still, at this stage of the season no one is getting too hung up about performances on what was a dry – yes, surely – pitch.

The underfoot situation have been of little final result for Forrest’s first goal, volleyed into the corner of the net in a flash after Kyogo Furuhashi’s instinctive lay-off at the edge of the box. Another opportunist end from Forrest after he robbed Antonio Portales earned Celtic some respiration space after sixty seven minutes, with the visitors hitting the publish rapidly afterwards thru Reo Hatate.

A 0-3 scoreline at that stage would have been particularly harsh on Dundee. The hosts decreased the deficit to simply one after Portales made up for his beforehand error with a hooked shot at a nook that wrong-footed Hart after hitting Celtic alternative Adam Idah.

19 Rangers and Celtics games remaining in the Premier League with two losses, plus a transfer decision involving the hoops hero

19 Rangers and Celtic faces currently in Premier League with 2 flops + Hoops hero facing transfer decision

Rangers and Celtic have played key parts in the careers of some men in the Premier League down south.

Rangers and Celtic are often viewed as a gateway to the Premier League for some stars – but who has actually managed to walk that path.

The English top flight is where stars of today want to be right now, with huge financial incentives plus many of the top coaches and teams. To get there, some need to prove themselves at other levels first, with the high-pressure environment of Rangers and Celtic an ideal development spot.

Some are out on loan to other leagues from their Premier League sides, while one Hoops hero in particular has a transfer choice to make, but they will be keen to show their worth come the summer. Others are bonafide regulars for their clubs.

Including first-team managers as well as stars who have featured for Rangers or Celtic, here are 19 of the men who have been at either of the Glasgow rivals at one point in their career, and are now EPL players.

1. Mikel Arteta (Rangers)

Current club: Arsenal (manager)

2. Kieran Tierney (Celtic)

Current club: Arsenal (on loan at Real Sociedad)

3. Virgil van Dijk (Celtic)

Current club: Liverpool

4. Andy Robertson (Celtic youth academy)

Current club: Liverpool

James Forrest proposes that Celtic’s stellar performance in games makes him a “no brainer” for Sportscene Scotland.

James Forrest suggests Celtic massive game credentials that earn him Sportscene ‘no brainer’ Scotland status

The veteran winger has netted three desires in his closing two matches, sparking calls for a return to the national group ahead of the Euros in the summer.

James Forrest’s stimulated shows for Celtic in the previous eight days have bought two pundits urging Steve Clarke to hand him a Scotland recall simply in time for the European Championships in the summer.

In his first begin on the grounds that lining up in a 2-1 win over St Mirren on November 1, the 32-year-old was once the Hoops healthy winner on Sunday, scoring both of his side’s goals in a 2-1 win against Dundee that maintained Celtic’s three factor lead at the top of the Premiership with 4 video games to play.

That brace came simply eight days after the experienced winger was once deployed as a alternative to devastating impact in remaining Saturday’s Scottish Cup semi-final assembly with Aberdeen at Hampden, with Forrest netting Celtic’s second goal in the exciting 3-3 draw that the cup holders finally came out on pinnacle in by using a penalty shootout. Since making his countrywide crew debut in 2011, Forrest has gone onto score 5 instances in 38 caps for Scotland, together with a memorable hat trick in a Nations League victory towards Israel in 2018.

The Lennoxtown formative years graduate last represented his usa at the delayed Euro 2020 finals in the summer time of 2021, however his lack of game time for the Hoops in latest seasons has viewed him fall down the pecking order. However, Sportscene pundits Stephen Craigan and Michael Stewart are in no doubt that the veteran should be on the plane to Germany next summer, with the former making reference to Celtic gaffer Brendan Rodgers’ latest declare that Forrest is nevertheless the pleasant wide man he has at his disposal.

Craigan said: “People are having the same dialogue around Steve Clarke having Craig Gordon as his 2d choice, even although he is not taking part in at Hearts, because of his big sport experience.

“James Forrest epitomises that. He is fresh and hasn’t performed a 50 game season the place he is gonna be flagging come mid-June.

Celtic’s James Forrest rankings to make it 2-1 in opposition to the Dons at Hampden

“He is feeling accurate about himself, scoring desires and feels like he’s an essential phase of Celtic. It nearly makes a mockery of Celtic, that they signed 4 wingers in the summer time but James Forrest is nonetheless the nice one.

Jim Goodwin names 5 Dundee Utd players who ought to join Louis Moult in Championship POTY contention

“He is the most embellished Scottish participant nonetheless playing and is aware of what it is like to play in and have an effect on huge games. If you are Steve Clarke chasing a purpose in the Euros and are thinking ‘who can I turn to? Who has been right here before and achieved it?’ James Forrest, a hundred per cent.”

Clarke’s choices at right-wing returned for the finals have suffered a massive blow with Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson both dealing with a race against the clock to get themselves in shape again, however four-time Scotland cap Stewart reckons Forrest would be more than capable of filling that role.

He added: “It’s a no brainer for me. With the troubles we are having at right-wing-back at the moment, it is someplace that James Forrest may want to cowl if he used to be in the squad. I would one hundred per cent have him in the squad. Even if it was a 23-man squad by no means mind 26.”

Tam McManus’ Doubting Celtic Remarks

Former Hibernian striker turned Scottish football pundit Tam McManus has spoken out against Celtic and Rangers.

With Celtic and Rangers both winning 2-1 this afternoon against Dundee and St. Mirren, McManus was highly critical of both sides of the Glasgow divide.

REGARDLESS OF THE SCORES TODAY WHAT IS INDISPUTABLE IS THAT IN MY OPINION IT IS THE TWO POOREST CELTIC & RANGERS TEAMS IVE SEEN IN A LONG TIME. BANG AVERAGE.

— TAM MCMANUS (@THE_TMAN10) APRIL 28, 2024

McManus does not give a set year for when to compare this current Celtic side, but to say ‘for a long time’ is questionable, considering that the current side is top of the league table with just four matches remaining and still in contention to win the Scottish Cup.

With Celtic having lost the league title by 25 points in the 2020/21 league season and failing to win a domestic trophy that season, Ange Postecoglou oversaw arguably the biggest rebuild in the club’s history.

While Rodgers took over a treble-winning team from last season, it is fair to say that the Irishman has not hit the heights of last season under Postecoglou, but the current team is nowhere near as poor as the 2020/21 side.

With Rodgers also masterminding Celtic’s first win in the Champions League group stage this season in over a decade, the Hoops were only a win away from European football after Christmas, in yet another sign that this is not the poorest Celtic side in a long time.

McManus appears to be using criticism of Celtic and Rangers as an opportunity to receive media attention and to discuss his name instead of actually providing any sort of real insight into how he feels Celtic or Rangers could improve as a team.

Joe Hart’s Wise Sunday Night Advice for Celtics Supporters

As the Scottish Premiership season nears its end, veteran goalkeeper Joe Hart is making every moment count. Following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Dundee at Dens Park, Hart took to social media to express his appreciation for his teammates and fans, showcasing his emotional journey towards retirement.

Celtic’s win, quintessential for retaining their three-point lead at the pinnacle of the table, used to be punctuated by means of Hart’s poignant posts on Instagram. His first story, “James Forrest…Love Him,” was once a tribute to his teammate’s performance, highlighting the camaraderie and appreciate that has typified his time at Celtic. Forrest, who scored Celtic’s two goals, acquired direct acknowledgment from Hart.

The winger who hasn’t commenced many games this season still has appreciate from the dressing room for what he’s done, but additionally what he can stilll do.

Hart’s second post, “got it done, we respect you,” was once a nod to the magnificent support of the Celtic fans. The fans’ vocal help at Dens Park used to be palpable, and Hart’s acknowledgment a humble nod to a relationship that has fuelled their pursuit of the league title.

With his retirement introduced for the quit of the season, Hart is visibly savouring each and every step of his final professional chapters.

The goalkeeper has solely 4 league video games left and will cap his illustrious career with a high-stakes Scottish Cup remaining against arch-rivals Rangers. This climactic Glasgow Derby guarantees to be a becoming conclusion for a player of Hart’s stature.

As Celtic pushes ahead under excessive strain to invulnerable the title, Hart’s leadership and journey are greater worthwhile than ever. His contributions on and off the area are properly documented.

Let’s hope he leaves a double winner!

It’s Important to Note the John Beaton Celtic Flashpoint

In a nail biting Scottish Premiership clash at Dens Park, Celtic edged out Dundee 2-1 to maintain their lead at the pinnacle of the table. However, the suit concluded with a contentious choice from referee John Beaton, who issued a yellow card to Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart for time-wasting, sparking a debate amongst fans.

As the game neared its conclusion, anxiety built with Celtic maintaining a narrow lead, courtesy of two desires from James Forrest. The suit took a dramatic flip when Celtic striker Adam Idah inadvertently scored an personal purpose while attempting to clear a corner, which added Dundee returned into contention. Despite the setback, Celtic managed to manipulate the game’s understandably tried slowing down the play closer to the end.

28th April 2024; Dens Park, Dundee, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Dundee versus Celtic; Referee John Beaton arrives for the match

Referee John Beaton’s selection to e book Hart after just two instances of delaying the sport has come beneath scrutiny. Typically, in Celtic games, opposition goalkeepers take as plenty time as they perchance can during goal kicks for the duration of a match besides reprimand beyond a verbal warning. This leniency has led to a method amongst groups dealing with the top sides like Celtic: deliberately slow the recreation to disrupt rhythm.

So it used to be galling for many Celtic fans after the obvious inconsistency in the enforcement of time-wasting rules. Perhaps Joe used to be greater overt about it and you want to ‘play the game’ more. Goalkeepers often taking the ball from one facet of the six-yard container to the other, taking long run ups, and from time to time pretending they don’t see the ball in their eye line.

Despite the debate, Celtic’s victory keeps them three factors clear at the pinnacle of the league, with solely 4 video games remaining. The pursuit of the title is intense, and each and every second on the pitch is beneath scrutiny, as evidenced by way of the conflict at Dens Park.

As the season heads into its closing stages, the scrutiny over refereeing selections will solely intensify. The query stays whether or not this incident will prompt a more constant application of the rules or if it will be an isolated case. Celtic are at domestic to Hearts next week and you have to surprise if time wasting will be punished.

After a successful stint away from Parkhead, a Celtic loanee sustains season-ending injuries.

Celtic loanee suffers season-ending harm after bright spell away from Parkhead

Celtic and accidents are two phrases that have been often mentioned in conjunction with each other this term.

Brendan Rodgers has wanted to shuffle his squad around this campaign amid health troubles involving Callum McGregor, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Reo Hatate, and Daizen Maeda, to identify a few.

With the rising demand on gamers to play extra matches than ever earlier than on all fronts, accidents have elevated ten fold in the footballing world, so it isn’t a principal surprise that Celtic have been on the receiving quit given our hefty fixture schedule.

Unfortunately, they have turn out to be commonplace, and other Scottish Premiership clubs have additionally had mounting numbers on the therapy table.

That being said, St Mirren boss Stephen Robinson has revealed that Celtic loanee Hyeokkyu Kwon has been dominated out of his side’s ultimate fixtures this marketing campaign after succumbing to a hamstring issue [BBC Sport].

Speaking to the press beforehand today earlier than the Buddies took on Rangers, the 49-year-old broke the news, stating: “Unfortunately, we’ve lost Kwon for the relaxation of the season with a hamstring injury.”

Hyeokkyu Kwon’s shiny loan spell away from Celtic at St Mirren

South Korea Under-23 global Kwon arrived in January at the SMiSA Stadium and made 9 appearances in all competitions at St Mirren [Transfermarkt].

As per Sofascore, the 23-year-old has had a vivid impact in Paisley, triumphing around 1.6 tackles per Scottish Premiership in shape alongside making 5 ball recoveries.

Acclimatising to Scottish football swiftly, St Mirren manager Robinson has previously signalled his desire to prolong his remain at the membership for next season.

The Lisburn native stated again in February: “He came to the united states and hasn’t played a lot. It’s getting him used to Scottish football, long throws and long balls at instances that he maybe isn’t used to. The physicality of our game.

“He’s introduced that bit of exceptional and composure. It’s some thing we’d be very keen to get done. It’s maybe a lengthy way off happening, but that would be in an best world for me.”

It is unclear where his long-term Celtic future lies; regardless, Kwon hasn’t achieved his probabilities of making a wreck for the first group underneath Rodgers any harm.

For now, hopefully, Kwon can revel in a rapid recovery before we see if he will be integrated into the squad come pre-season.

Charlie Mulgrew Shares With James Forrest, “That’s His Worst Nightmare”

Charlie Mulgrew has printed that Celtic winger James Forrest would not have enjoyed the interest he obtained post-match after his brace towards Dundee this afternoon.

After the game, a quantity of Celtic gamers ushered Forrest to get hold of applause from the widespread wide variety of away supporters, with Brendan Rodgers himself even pushing Forrest to the front.

But Mulgrew furnished insight on Forrest, having played with him at Celtic for a variety of years.

He said: [Sky Sports], “That’s his worst nightmare, he hates the attention, he doesn’t even go on social media.”

Forrest is very actually a low-key man or woman who goes about his commercial enterprise quietly, meaning he is not spoken about enough as one of Celtic’s greats, which is unfair considering his contribution to the club.

20th April 2024; Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland: Scottish Cup Football Semi Final, Aberdeen versus Celtic; Ex Celtic and Aberdeen player Charlie Mulgrew

The Scottish winger is a throwback from a special technology of gamers who did now not use social media, and Mulgrew highlighted this in that Forrest does no longer crave attention and reward via social media.

Instead, he likes to live a quiet life off the pitch, and undoubtedly, this is why his Celtic career has lasted so long at an extraordinary level.

A number of Celtic supporters would have been guilty of writing off Forrest and even questioning him at instances throughout his time at the club.

But ultimately, he has silenced critics.

However, that is now not to say that he listens to what is stated about him in the media.

It is clear that his non-public life and soccer life are respectfully balanced in a way that many different gamers ought to research from.

Dundee bumps Brendan Rodgers, the Celtics star’s injury is updated, and the ace is placed on Mount Rushmore by the hoops.

The Celtic manager was reacting to a big win over Dundee in the Premiership.

Brendan Rodgers lavished the praise on one Celtic hero after a key 2-1 win over Dundee.

The Hoops boss had reliable club legend James Forrest to call upon at Dens Park, as he netted either side of half-time. A clinical volley put them ahead and his pouncing on a defensive mix-up assured the points for Celtic, with Adam Idah’s own goal not enough to pull Tony Docherty’s hosts back into proceedings.

Rangers had reduced the gap at the top of the Premiership to goal difference with their win at St Mirren but Celtic have made sure it’s back at three points heading into the second game post-split. The Hoops face Hearts next while Rangers host Kilmarnock.

Rodgers put all the focus on his team post-match in Tayside. And his post-match team talk centred on the double-scoring hero at Dens Park, who he holds in the highest Parkhead status.

He said: “We pick up a vital three points. He’s a brilliant player. I said to the guys after, he is one of the remaining fathers of the success this club has had over the last decade or so in particular.

“His creativeness, mentality. His first finish is sublime. His second he makes look easy. He might not quite have the legs what he had a number of years but he does have the quality, that doesn’t diminish. I am so happy for him.”

Rodgers also allayed a fitness fear over Callum McGregor. The captain has just returned from an Achilles/calf injury and took a bump in the thick of battle.

Rodgers said: “Yeah he’s fine. He continued so hopefully he keeps building his fitness right the way through and then he does a good job for Scotland.”

Three years into the Celtic chief Peter Lawwell firebombed domestic investigation, there are still no new leads.

Probe into Celtic chief Peter Lawwell’s firebombed domestic has no new leads three years on

Three automobiles had been set on fireplace in Celtic chief Peter Lawwell’s driveway which then spread to his house in Thorntonhall. Police have admitted there are no new leads, three years after the incident.

Fire Crews and investigators at the scene of a furnace at Celtic Chief Peter Lawwell’s Thorntonhall home. (Image: Victoria Stewart, Reach PLC)

A hunt for the human beings who torched the home of Celtic chairman Peter Lawwell has no new leads, police have admitted three years on from the incident

Three automobiles have been set on fire in Lawwell’s driveway which then spread to his house in Thorntonhall, near Glasgow. The automobiles and a garage, above which Lawwell’s daughter and her four-month-old girl had been sleeping, were destroyed.

Lawwell, 64, and his household escaped on May 19, 2021, after being woken by way of a car exploding.

READ MORE: Scots mum who carries wheelchair-bound daughter, 10, up to cramped flat says household ‘live in hell’

READ MORE: Glasgow couple with three young people residing in mouldy flat with lavatory blanketed in damp

Officers have now proven that there are “no similarly lens of inquiry”, the Sunday Mail reports.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Extensive inquiries have been carried out into a fireraising incident which came about in the Thorntonhall vicinity around 12.50am on Wednesday, 19 May, 2021.

Celtic chief government Peter Lawwell.

“There are no in addition traces of inquiry, on the other hand any further statistics will be examined thoroughly.”

CCTV footage of the incident showed a masked man pouring an accelerant on the cars.

A spokesperson for Celtic said: “This used to be a horrendous time for Peter and his family. Clearly, we hope a pleasant conclusion can be executed going forward.”

View: Leicester City: Despite Celtic plea, £800k signing remains renowned at the King Power

Leicester City: £800k signing stays famous at the King Power despite Celtic plea: View

Muzzy Izzet had some controversy in his Leicester career, however he is nevertheless well-regarded via fans

Muzzy Izzet is some thing of a hero among Leicester City fans following his eight-year stint with the club, and so robust is his legacy that a transfer request midway through his remain does now not appear to have dampened emotions in the direction of him.

The midfielder spent the sizable majority of his profession with the club and took Foxes followers on some superb journeys, so it is easy to see why he is so rather notion of.

Fans are by no means keen when one of their icons requests to pass to a one-of-a-kind club, but it appears Izzet built up sufficient goodwill to put the switch saga at the back of him.

The former Turkey global has seeing that been considered celebrating later Leicester success, in a showing that proves the bond between player and membership remains strong.

Muzzy Izzet proved an inspired purchase for Leicester City

Izzet originally joined the Foxes on loan in 1996 and was usually destined to end up a Leicester hero when he assisted the group in earning promoting to the Premier League in his first season.

It used to be ample to persuade then manager Martin O’Neill that a everlasting pass used to be required, and they tabled a bid to mother or father membership Chelsea well worth £800k, which used to be accepted.

Muzzy Izzet’s Senior Football Career, as per Transfermarkt

Team

Apps

Goals

Assists

Leicester City

300

Birmingham City

Although a giant sum of money to stump up for Leicester at the time, it would turn out to be really worth each penny.

In his time with the club, Izzet would go on to make three hundred appearances for the Foxes, scoring 44 goals and offering 21 assists, before his change to Birmingham City in 2004.

Leicester City hit jackpot with bargain £1.25m Leeds United switch raid: View

Muzzy Izzet’s Leicester City legacy may want to have been undone with transfer requests

With a music record that widespread for one club, it is handy to see why followers adore the midfielder, however his legacy was threatened throughout 2001 and 2002, opening with a transfer request that he passed to the hierarchy in October 2001.

Izzet made it clear that he was sad at the club after conversations with manager Dave Bassett and was quoted by using the Guardian at the time with words that no fan needs to hear from their preferred player.

“It was once a very hard decision for me and I have agonised over it for various months,” he said. “But my want is to be as profitable as viable and, though it hurts me to say it, I think it is in my satisfactory pastimes that I have a new venture away from Leicester City.”

It was reported at the time that both Aston Villa and Leeds United may be fascinated in his services, however neither cross transpired and Izzet remained with the Foxes.

Then, in the summer time of 2002, Izzet was once as soon as once more agitating for a move, this time naming his preferred destination. The manager that had introduced him to Leicester, O’Neill, was now with Scottish Premiership outfit Celtic, and Izzet was once involved in the switch.

He was quoted by the BBC as saying: “I do not be aware of what the state of affairs at Celtic is and what their budget is however I’m hoping Martin will be in touch because I will surely talk to him.

“I cannot say too a whole lot as Martin hasn’t been in contact however solely an idiot would not consider joining Celtic.”

Openly making an attempt to dictate your cross away from a club, especially for a key discern as Izzet was, will never go down too well with fans, however over 20 years on there is nothing to propose that his legacy used to be dented too a whole lot with the aid of it.

Ipswich Town were terrorised by using ex-Leicester City big name over the years: View

Muzzy Izzet left Leicester City in 2004 with his legacy intact

In the end, Izzet would continue to be with the Foxes for any other two years, before departing at the stop of his contract in 2004 to go to Birmingham.

Despite his switch saga, he used to be given a heat send-off in his final domestic game earlier than he made the switch, with banners thanking him for the recollections displayed in the crowd and a presentation on the pitch to comprehend his contributions over the years.

When Leicester did the unthinkable over a decade later and received the Premier League, Izzet was once in amongst the celebrations, shocking fans on their doorsteps and being hailed as an idol.

It appears that his brief switch frustrations were now not held in opposition to him for too long, which shows the power of feeling closer to what he did for the membership in his time there.

His flirtations with Celtic and moving away may want to have destabilized a lesser man, but Izzet stays a hero at the King Power.

In an emotional farewell to Fleetwood Town amid the Celtic comeback, Bosun Lawal was “gutted.”

Bosun Lawal ‘gutted’ in emotional Fleetwood Town farewell amid Celtic return.

Celtic presently have a variety of gamers out on mortgage at the moment as fringe and growing stars seem to get first-team football.

With 15 players all temporarily plying their change elsewhere, they are all set to return to the membership this summer season when Brendan Rodgers will make a choice on whether or no longer they have a future at Celtic or not.

It’s clear the likes of Alexandro Bernabei and Sead Haksabanovic don’t have a long-term future at the club at the same time as others like Ben Summers, Marco Tilio and Tobi Oluwayemi possibly do.

But it’s the return of Bosun Lawal that will probable have the Celtic supporters excited.

Lawal ‘gutted’ at how loan spell ended

The talented Celtic defender/midfielder loved a amazing run in the Fleetwood Town first group even as out on loan.

Used a versatile participant for the majority of his time on loan, the Republic of Ireland u21 international made a staggering forty seven appearances scoring 6 goals and developing two.

Lawal played 19 games as a centre-back, 14 in central midfield, seven as a protective midfielder with the closing five as both a proper or left returned as Fleetwood boss, Charlie Adam, utilised the 20-year-old’s versatility. [Transfermarkt]

But now that Fleetwood has been relegated, Lawal returns to Celtic ‘gutted’ however excited to come again and compete for a area in the Hoops’ first-team.

MORE CELTIC STORIES

Taking to social media channel X, Lawal posted a farewell message to his mortgage membership thanking them for his time at the club.

Lawal said, “Thank you Fleetwood for making my time at this club special.

“Gutted things didn’t go as planned however no doubt this membership will be again the place it belongs.

“Thank you to my teammates, coaches, all the workforce and unique point out our fantastic fans. #OnwardTogether.

“Thank you.”

Lawal has solely ever made one first-team appearance for Celtic so far. He bought three minutes in the 5-0 demolition of Morton in the Scottish Cup closing season under Ange Postecoglou but did make the matchday squad on three different occasions.

No doubt the youngster returns to Celtic a far better participant for his experiences in England’s third-tier and he should provide Rodgers any other option heading into next season as the Celtic manager ponders his shielding issues.

Rodgers requires an capable deputy to step in beside Cameron Carter-Vickers and whilst it’s probably too quickly to see Lawal in that class simply yet, there is no doubt that with development, there is a player in there that may want to flourish into a best partner for the US defender.

Due to suspension, Dundee manager Tony Docherty will miss this weekend’s Celtic match.

Dundee boss Tony Docherty to miss weekend Celtic conflict via suspension

The Dark Blues gaffer will be a key absence on the touchline.

Dundee boss Tony Docherty. Image: SNS

Dundee head into the first post-split fixture of the season this weekend at home to Celtic.

It is the first time because 2015 the Dark Blues will function in the Premiership’s top-six after a stellar return to top-flight football this season.

They will be barring injured skipper Joe Shaughnessy and mortgage star Owen Beck.

But there will also be a key absence on the touchline.

Manager Tony Docherty is suspended for Sunday’s 3pm kick-off.

Assistant supervisor Stuart Taylor will be in charge on the touchline for Dundee towards Celtic alternatively of Tony Docherty. Image: SNS.

Instead of his typical area in the dugout, the Dens boss will be in the stands observing on as his side face the league leaders.

4th yellow

That’s after picking up his fourth yellow card of the season at Aberdeen beforehand this month.

Docherty was booked by means of referee Nick Walsh in the first-half at Pittodrie.

The early stages of the sport had considered three Dundee players cautioned for fouls on Dons winger Duk earlier than Graeme Shinnie hauled down Dara Costelloe in midfield.

A Graeme Shinnie foul sooner or later brought a booking for the Aberdeen man and the Dundee manager. Image: SNS

It initially seemed the referee used to be reluctant to deliver out a yellow for the Aberdeen man and Docherty made his emotions clear.

Both in the give up saw yellow.

Shinnie would later pick up a 2nd reserving in stoppage time and was once despatched off as Dundee secured a top-six berth.

Docherty’s previous three got here in opposition to Motherwell, St Johnstone and at St Mirren in February.

What does ban mean?

SFA rules state the one-match ban for a educate receiving four yellow cards comes into effect 14 days after the offence happens so Docherty used to be free to take the Rangers recreation earlier than the ban kicked in.

Dundee boss Tony Docherty won’t be in the dugout against Celtic on Sunday. Image: SNS

Suspension will imply the Dundee manager won’t be in a position to enter the taking part in region or dressing-room for the duration of the contest.

He can be in the dressing-room until seventy five minutes before kick-off and can re-enter 15 minutes after full-time.

For the relaxation of the time, Docherty will have to continue to be in the stands.

Player of the Year Award Finalist is a former Celtic Academy boy

It is awards season and various Celts have already been given acclaim for their efforts in the course of the season.

Indeed, final week, the PFA Team of the Year used to be released in which Liam Scales, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Callum McGregor, and Matt O’Riley had been all included.

20th April 2024; Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland: Scottish Cup Football Semi Final, Aberdeen versus Celtic; Liam Scales of Celtic

The nominees for Premiership Player of the Year have not but been introduced however for the lower divisions, they have.

In Scottish League One, there is a name that will intrigue Celtic fans. Calvin Miller, who got here thru the academy ranks and made 5 first-team appearances, has been put up for the division’s Player of the Year by way of his colleagues:

CALVIN MILLER 🪄

SINCE SIGNING IN THE SUMMER, MILLER HAS 26 G/A ACROSS ALL COMPETITIONS FOR @FALKIRKFC AND IS THE RUNNING FOR PFA SCOTLAND LEAGUE 1 POTY ON MAY 5TH.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE MILLER MOMENT?@CALVIN_MILLER7 | #PFASAWARDS

📹 @SPFL PIC.TWITTER.COM/4WWM4ZKRNK

— PFA SCOTLAND (@PFASCOTLAND) APRIL 25, 2024

Now at Falkirk, the 26-year-old has been vastly outstanding at some stage in 2023/24. Across all competitions, he has made 38 appearances, scoring 11 goals and registering 15 assists from the left facet of midfield.

Under John McGlynn, Miller is flying, enjoying a key function in the Bairns’ successful marketing campaign which has considered them win the third tier and thus gain promotion to the Championship.

He never set it alight at Celtic, but it is captivating to see the Scotland under-21 cap succeed someplace else and make a profession in the game after coming thru at Lennoxtown.

Before Sunday’s match, Celtic was warned about “dangerous” Dundee.

Celtic journey to Dundee this weekend in the first of their post-split fixtures in the Scottish Premiership.

This season, the Dee have been quietly impressing. Being the newly promoted aspect in the division, next to no one predicted the club to be in the top six after the split.

Tony Docherty, though, has completed an high-quality job at Dens’ Park and will be searching to increase his and his side’s credentials with a result when the Bhoys come to town this weekend.

26th December 2023; Dens Park, Dundee, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Dundee versus Celtic; Celtic huddle

Having currently drew 0-0 with Rangers at home, Dundee are a well-organised aspect who can show a pressure going forward.

The game on Sunday will in no way be straight-forward for the Celts and they will have to earn the proper to win.

Indeed, former Hoops right-back and now pundit Mark Wilson has warned his historic group beforehand of a game that he thinks won’t be plain-sailing.

The 39-year-old also outlined his opinion that each Celtic and Rangers will drop points between now and the end of the season.

He said: [Clyde 1 Superscoreboard] “I don’t suppose all people in Dundee associated with the club have been ever dreaming of having a European place.

“Of direction when it’s in front of them, they’ll favor to take it however it’s a one-of-a-kind stress that’s on them so that makes them a risky opponent for Celtic.

“I don’t suppose Sunday will be as simple for each groups (Celtic and Rangers) as every person thinks.

“I assume there’s nonetheless points to be dropped.”

Celtic legend is being hailed as a shock supervisor who’suits’ the Reds as a gaffer valued by Liverpool’s future boss chase.

Ange Postecoglou used to be formerly Celtic boss, Former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou has been touted as an ideal in shape for Liverpool – however a cross to Anfield from Tottenham has been firmly positioned in one category.

The Australian is a hero in Glasgow’s east-end, having won 5 out of six reachable home trophies at some point of his two seasons at Celtic. He was once previously at Yokohama F. Marinos. His first season at Tottenham in the English Premier League has attracted plaudits as Spurs rebuild in his photograph with high-octane attacking football.

A period of trade dawns at Liverpool with Jurgen Klopp on the way out. Feyenoord’s Arne Slot looks poised to come to be his replacement but former Tottenham defender Alan Hutton reckons Postecoglou is a fantastic Anfield healthy with his style of play. That said, it is not a cross he expects to see occur with the former Parkhead gaffer’s Tottenham assignment only at its start.

Hutton told Football Insider: “I can tell you this, I think in phrases of the way Postecoglou plays football, he would go well with a pass to Liverpool.

“We’ve considered what he’s been in a position to do at Tottenham in a quick duration of time, but I don’t think he’ll leave. Liverpool will have other selections and Ange is happy with where he is.

“He’s working on some thing and it’s definitely working nicely at this second in time. They’ve had blips, however that’s simply due to the style and the way Tottenham play. Postecoglou will favor to make his facet better and he’s had a massive first season. I simply don’t see Ange leaving, if I’m honest.”

A New Name Surfaces in the Chase for Celtic Academy Positions

It was once revealed earlier in the week that Celtic are on the hunt to discover a new under-18s manager, with former stars Jonny Hayes and Charlie Mulgrew being named as possible targets.

Now, a new title has emerged in Adam Asghar. Current manager of Southampton under-21s, the 29-year-old has his facet sitting pinnacle of Premier League 2 Division 2, the 2nd tier of youth football in England.

Previously, Asghar has enjoyed spells at Sunderland as an under-18s manager and at Dundee United where he was assistant to Tam Courts.

A fresh, young, dynamic coach, the appointment of Asghar would probable excite supporters a lot extra than that of a Hayes or Mulgrew, and it appears he has a 50/50 threat of touchdown a position at Celtic.

As properly as a new under-18s manager, the club are additionally on the hunt for a new B crew boss following Darren O’Dea’s advancement to the role of Professional Player Pathway Manager.

Indeed, in accordance to RecordSport, the Hoops will appoint two from a four-man shortlist – inclusive of Hayes, Mulgrew, Asghar, and an unnamed inside candidate – to fill the two vacancies.

This academy restructure comes amid the quit of the season for Celtic B. The kids have simply two video games final in a marketing campaign the place they have constantly accelerated as time has progressed.

Celtic interest in The Rock is piqued by WrestleMania education and Parkhead love-in.

The Rock attracts Celtic interest as WrestleMania education comes with Parkhead love-in

The Rock’s Wrestlemania training has come with a serving of Celtic nods.

The wrestling icon has attracted Hoops attention

A crew of Scottish wrestlers earned a dream shot of education with The Rock constructing up to his WrestleMania bout – with a Celtic shirt on display.

The WWE icon used to be preparing for the 40th version of the iconic match throughout April 6th and 7th in Philadelphia. A team of NXT wrestlers were known as upon to help the 51-year-old get into form – Mark Coffey, Joe Coffey and Wolfgang. The trio who form The Gallus stable had been flown out to Los Angeles as the Scottish wrestlers have been surpassed the danger of a lifetime.

One of the Coffey brothers, Joe, is Celtic daft and shared a snap with The Rock in which he poses with a retro Hoops shirt. His tweet has gathered enormous attention, with eagle-eyed viewers noticing the well-known Hoops shirt subsequent to a wrestling icon.

“Final Boss CSC” was the comic story of one fan and “Hope he is gazing the Glasgow Derby on the 11th” is what any other said. “We want the rock in a Celtic top” has been demanded by a supporter and some other brought “Please inform me you gave him a Celtic top.”

Another WWE legend in Shawn Michaels, a senior determine in the back of NXT, says the training between Dwayne Johnson and the Celtic-friendly Scottish wrestling crew was a principal success.

He told talkSPORT: “He [Rock] wanted some of us to educate with, and obviously we’re talking about three guys who be aware of what they’re doing, been around the block – Understand each and every component of the business.

“You can have any individual out there younger to simply fly around however you need guys that are mature, professional, who can alter in the entirety to what Rock wants. Obviously I’m partial with these guys, they’re awesome guys however they’re so expert – they’re very dependable

Bosun Lawal rejoins Celtic while Rodgers searches for a defensive midfielder

Derby County v Fleetwood Town EFL League 1 19/08/2023. Bosun Lawal of Fleetwood Town at the Pride Park, Derby, on 19 August 2023. Photo PSI

Celtic are being linked with the signing of Charles Pickel as the Scottish Champions ramp up their preparations for next season. With six games closing of this season and two trophies to play for, the focus is completely on bringing the title and Scottish Cup returned to Celtic Park.

However, at the back of the scenes, the membership will be preparing for the 2024/25 season through scouting, figuring out and assessing attainable switch targets. One identify that has cropped up is Cremonese protecting midfielder Pickel.

Charles Pickel

The 26-year-old is a effective protective midfielder that can also fill in at RB or play further forward. His profile really suits the manager’s want to get pace and strength into the squad beforehand of the new season.

Notwithstanding the reality that it is promising that Celtic are already underway in their preparations for subsequent season, the membership ought to be thinking about whether or not Bosun Lawal can play a part in the first group subsequent season.

The Irish U21 star used to be a everyday starter in the Celtic B Team at centre back; however, after transferring to Fleetwood Town in EFL League One, the 20-year-old moved into the midfield.

09.07.2022, Allianz Stadion, Wien, AUT, Testspiel, SK Rapid Wien vs Celtic Glasgow, Vorbereitung für die kommende Saison, im Bild v.l. Bosun Lawal Celtic

Despite everyday adjustments in the administration at Fleetwood with Scott Brown, Lee Johnson and Charlie Adam all having stints in the ill-fated season, Lawal was once a consistent performer.

In all competitions, Lawal made forty six appearances, scoring six times and assisting twice, which drew praise from his managers for his composure in the centre of the park.

Brendan Rodgers will likely go want to see the participant again at Lennoxtown as he considers whether to mortgage him out once more or combine him into his first team. The Celtic manager has stated that he wants to have a geared up provide of brain coming through the ranks of the academy to complement and big name in the first group

Report:Man City extends an offer to Joe Hart

Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart will cling up his gloves at the end of the season in an emotional second for the player, his club, and fans.

The Englishman has given his all in inexperienced and white over the previous three years, bringing actual stability between the sticks at a time of transition.

20th April 2024; Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland: Scottish Cup Football Semi Final, Aberdeen versus Celtic; Joe Hart of Celtic

He has solely extended in the course of his time in Glasgow, and suggestions that he is Celtic’s Player of the Season for the cutting-edge campaign are a testomony to this.

Although he has no plans to go into teaching and hasn’t taken any badges, in accordance to the Daily Record, Hart will be presented a return to Manchester City this summer season in a non-footballing capacity, doubtlessly through an ambassadorial role.

Having made two shy of 350 appearances for City and triumphing five predominant trophies with the club, the 37-year-old is properly revered at the Etihad.

While a return down South would in all likelihood disappoint Celtic supporters, it is comprehensible given the ‘keeper’s records with the present day European champions.

When recently speakme to CeltsAreHere and other fan media, though, Hart did admit that he has let Brendan Rodgers and Celtic know that he is continually available. Keeping him at the membership in some ability this summer season would please many.

Video: Hampden’s Celtic End celebrations are captured in stunning views.

Celtic overcame Aberdeen in a frantic, dramatic Scottish Cup Semi Final on Sunday. As the dust settles on the basic encounter, the Scottish Champions return to focus on league motion before the May 25th showpiece at Hampden.

In two clips from at the back of the goals at Hampden, the Celtic End can be considered in all its glory for James Forrest’s intention that put the group 2-1 up in the 2nd half.

The Celtic End. pic.twitter.com/gdkgQjDBPp

— Luke O’Hara (@lukeohara77) April 25, 2024

Another cracking angle.

Got to love opposition followers posting the Celtic quit in all its glory. https://t.co/aCjxhCsJ2W pic.twitter.com/Hg5UESc1AA

— Luke O’Hara (@lukeohara77) April 25, 2024

The Green Brigade and Bhoys Celtic have been campaigning for a Celtic End at Paradise. However, given a quick breakdown in the relationship with the club in the past this season, you would assume this is unlikely.

Hopefully a solution can be reached to get the ultras corporations together as they supply a special ride both domestic and away.

Born just as Celtic had been stopping the Ten, Lubo98 follows Celtic domestic and away and helps run his neighborhood Celtic Supporters Club. He goes to all the games and is a Law Graduate. Has a precise fondness for Tom Rogic amongst the modern-day Celts and each Lubo and Henrik structure his earliest Celtic memories.

The Celtic’standard setter’ at the club is named by Joe Hart.

Joe Hart names the Celtic ‘standard setter’ at the club

Joe Hart and James Forrest

The information that Joe Hart is set to retire at the cease of the season has intended there has been a herbal center of attention on the veteran goalkeeper going out on a high. For that to happen, though, the Celtic quantity one says that another senior member of Brendan Rodgers’ squad may well be a key figure.

James Forrest put in a hugely incredible cameo from the bench on Saturday at Hampden, scoring inside minutes and showing the danger he nevertheless has to offer from the wing, prompting questions about why the 32-year-old has been used pretty so sparingly this season.

READ MORE: Replacing O’Riley: THREE players who can fill the inevitable gap in midfield

Hart feels although that Forrest can also properly have a pivotal function to play on the area but in the ultimate six fixtures of the campaign as Celtic eye up a league and Scottish Cup double, whilst his influence behind the scenes is past question.“I simply desire his intention [against Aberdeen] used to be the winner,” Hart said.

“He has been exceptional. I couldn’t suppose any higher of him as a person. James sets the standards. He’s been out of squads this season, and he has simply trained brilliantly each and every single day. We’ve had injury problems, and the club have made commitments to other players with contracts and matters like that, that’s life at the top end.But he hasn’t flinched. He has been magnificent every time he has been called upon. He is fantastic in training, he came on and certainly calmed us down, he used to be tremendous on Saturday.

“I just want we may want to have finished the sport at 2-1 in ninety minutes and then it would be James having the conversations afterwards.”

Forrest hasn’t always been the darling of the Celtic support, however history is probable to be kind to the winger, who is now one of the most decorated players in the club’s history. If he can add another couple of medals to his series between now and the stop of the season, he will solely add to that legacy, and Hart says that the players are aware that this is the time when heroes ought to be made. “It could,” he said.

“Everyone is healthy aside from the apparent difficulty we have with Daizen (Maeda), but with any luck we are going to get him lower back before the give up of the season. Everyone else is fit and available, and all and sundry desires to do their first-class to put us in the quality area possible. Nothing is done. We’ve just obtained to take care of our business and focal point on the subsequent game. It is a big opportunity this week to get a proper coaching week into us and go into a huge sport at Dundee.

“There’s a long way to go. Nothing is done, we’ve received a lot of difficult work ahead of us, however we’ve put ourselves in a suitable spot and we’re feeling good.”

That being said, Hart isn’t ignoring the deficiencies in the Celtic side that were laid naked at the weekend, which he says they will be doing their utmost to eradicate even at this late stage of the season. It is to their credit, he argues, that they have managed to locate a way to dig deep and put themselves in such an advantageous position, regardless of the campaign as a complete being far from perfect. “We’ve had warning signs and symptoms all season,” he said.

“There’s no excuse. It’s no longer been a ideal season, however we’re digging in. At the proper moments we are playing our stuff, however there are additionally moments when the video games are tight and tough and we are still managing to do our thing.

“We will see, we have set it all up however there is nonetheless masses of work to do.”

READ MORE: The writing is on the wall for Nawrocki at Celtic if Scales starts at Dens Park

On a personal note, there is no escaping the theme of Hart’s remaining bow, and he is delighted that – fitness permitting – he will now take that curtain call at the national stadium in the Scottish Cup Final. He was relieved that his penalty miss in the shootout in opposition to Aberdeen ended up a mere footnote to Saturday’s exciting contest, and he is hoping that the afternoon of May 25th against Rangers will be a day to bear in mind at Hampden, and a fitting way to call time on his career. “It should be, hopefully,” he said.

“I’ve bought a date now. I’ve received a date that I be aware of is going to be the remaining game that I am handy to be involved in. Who is aware of what is going to manifest in the subsequent 5 weeks? Hopefully, I’ll be suit and in shape and picked to play.

“It’s all set up though.”

Benjamin Siegrist of Celtics was spotted dining with Rebel Wilson, a Hollywood star.

Celtic’s Benjamin Siegrist Spotted Dining with Hollywood Star Rebel Wilson

In a surprising crossover between Scottish soccer and Hollywood, Celtic backup goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist was once considered taking part in a meal with actress Rebel Wilson at a famous Edinburgh restaurant.

Wilson, recognized for her comedic roles and vibrant personality, is presently in the town for her one-of-a-kind event, “A Night with Rebel Wilson,” as she promotes her book.

Siegrist, the Swiss-born goalkeeper who has spent lots of his Celtic tenure as an understudy to Joe Hart, determined himself in the agency of Wilson, sparking curiosity. Sources propose the connection between Siegrist and Wilson is attributed to Siegrist’s partner, Brittany Hockley, who reportedly has ties with the Hollywood actress. The dinner plans were apparently supposed to consist of Hockley, however she bought delayed on a flight.

Siegrist’s profession at Celtic has been particularly underwhelming with restrained first-team appearances. Initially signed as a potential first-choice under former manager Ange Postecoglou, Siegrist has because fallen to 1/3 desire underneath the leadership of Brendan Rodgers.

The goalkeeper’s future with Celtic remains uncertain, with rumors circulating about a potential move. It’s clear he’s not going to make an impact with the Bhoys.

The goalkeeper doesn’t appear too fussed by way of it all. His Instagram tales generally full of journey when he’s not education with Celtic. I suppose Celtic followers will be in a position to relate with the stopper hanging out with a Rebel!

Joe Hart’s astute remark to a journalist regarding Celtics’ retirement

Joe Hart’s brilliant message to journalist in response to Celtic retirement take

Joe Hart has six games left of his career as he prepares to retire from the recreation and go away Celtic at the give up of the season.

With ten winners medals to his name, Hart has received two English Premier Leagues, two English League Cups, and FA Cup, two Scottish titles, one Scottish Cup and two Scottish League Cups as well.

And with this season being his closing swansong, going for every other title and Scottish Cup may want to bring down a wonderful end to a profession that has spanned over 20 years.

Joe Hart rejects ‘fairytale’ Celtic claim

Daily Record journalist, Michael Gannon, has shared a private dialog with Hart in which he published that the Celtic goalkeeper rejected the thinking that this season is set up to be a fairytale ending to his career.

Gannon said [Record Celtic podcast], “Joe Hart is a humorous character. I spoke to him a couple of weeks ago for a piece and I put it to him that this is all set up for a fairytale ending for him.

“He basically said, ‘I don’t accept as true with in fairytales. You want to work to earn the whole thing that comes your way.’

“He’s not banking on the fates intervening and creating a state of affairs that he is going to go out on a high. He’s going to go and do it.

“And the guy has had a few bumps in his profession as well. He’s not had it all simple sailing. And he is aware of that football can chunk you in the bottom at any given minute.”

That reply simply epitomises Hart’s attitude. The 37-year-old has always been eager to be aware that hard work for his crew has always been his priority ever when you consider that becoming a member of Celtic.

It’s no longer about any one man. This will stand Celtic in proper stead as Hart has proven that he is not centered on attempting to locate the glory for himself, however his focal point is 100% on the crew as we seem to tie up a league and cup double.

Watch: Outstanding Celtic Scottish Cup Semi-Final Video Is Released

The jubilant scenes at Hampden Park were excellent as James Forrest, coming off the bench, delivered what seemed like a conceivable match-winner for Celtic in their Scottish Cup semi-final conflict against Aberdeen.

Soccer Football – Scottish Cup – Quarter Final – Celtic v Livingston – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – March 10, 2024 Celtic’s Kyogo Furuhashi celebrates scoring their fourth goal with James Forrest and Paulo Bernardo REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

The roar that erupted from the Celtic fans when Forrest scored his team’s 2d aim was captured in a video which has simply made its way onto Twitter.

THE CELTIC END. PIC.TWITTER.COM/GDKGQJDBPP

— LUKE O’HARA (@LUKEOHARA77) APRIL 25, 2024

Forrest’s strike, which put Celtic beforehand following Nicolas Kuhn’s in the past equaliser, momentarily set the stage for a victory within regulation time. However, Aberdeen’s late purpose in the ninetieth minute extended the match into greater time, sooner or later leading to a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

Celtic secured their location in the remaining via penalties after the fit concluded with a 3-3 draw.

After Sunday’s result, Celtic will face Rangers in the closing on May 25, after the league season is over. By that time, Celtic should be going for a cup and league double.

But, till then, it’s all center of attention on the league.

This season, Celtic now have the chance to create Scottish football history.

Celtic now have the threat to make Scottish football history this season.

It has been a particularly dramatic 12 months for Celtic. There have been highs and lows along the way, lots of discussions about the path of the membership and plenty of tendencies off the pitch.

Management changes, lacklustre switch activity, tough intervals of form and injuries have all presented huge challenges to overcome.

Now, with just a handful of games left in the season, Celtic have the hazard to do something that no other Scottish club has ever achieved.

The Bhoys take a seat three factors clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership with five matches remaining and are hooked up as favourites to elevate yet another league trophy.

Celtic FC Women meanwhile additionally sit pinnacle of SWPL 1, two factors clear of competitors Rangers, with their very own five-game ending to navigate.

Celtic’s shot at history

If each the men’s and women’s groups raise the silverware, it’ll be the first time that a single membership has gained the country’s two league titles in the equal season.

The women’s side famously came so close to glory last term roared on by way of record-breaking bumper crowds at Celtic Park, only to be denied on the very closing matchday with the aid of a last-gasp Glasgow City goal.

Fran Alonso left the membership in the past this season and his replacement – Elena Sadiku – has the possibility to make an tremendous have an impact on simply months after taking charge.

If the two Celtic aspects now finish the job, it’ll be a landmark second for the membership and Scottish football – a actual signifier of dominance throughout both top flights.

Lots of challenging work beforehand for each Celtic sides

Nothing is guaranteed, of course, and there are massive fits in advance that can nevertheless alter the route these trophies are heading in.

Sadiku’s outfit picked up mind-blowing wins over Rangers and Glasgow City closing month but still have to play each teams – who have until now lifted this title – again over the coming weeks.

Brendan Rodgers’ facet can’t take something for granted both and have their very own large derby at domestic to Rangers on May 11th.

Still, it’s a tantalising prospect and something the club would no doubt make a huge deal of if it happened, and rightly so.

With each aspects also nonetheless gunning for Scottish Cup success, there’s even the danger of a double-double.

‘Modifications’ to the stadium are desired for Celtics vs. Rangers games

Stadium ‘modifications’ wanted for Celtic vs Rangers matches

James Bisgrove has noted changes are required at Ibrox and Celtic Park (Image: SNS)

James Bisgrove has published both Ibrox and Parkhead require stadium changes to host matches between Rangers and Celtic.

The Ibrox chief govt has defined adjustments will be made to the turnstiles at Ibrox earlier than the five percent away allocation comes into pressure subsequent season.

Celtic and Rangers agreed a deal to adopt a European-style allocation for derby fixtures. There will be no away fans for the ultimate suits this term.

And Bisgrove has now recommended a contributing thing to the absence of away followers for derby matches in latest season has been the need for tweaks at both grounds.

Speaking at a Rangers CEO Fan Forum, Bisgrove said: “One of the motives zero has been the number at the closing two Old Firm video games is that each clubs want changes to their stadiums.

“We will make changes to turnstiles, Parkhead will make modifications to ingress and egress to enhance the supporter experience.

“Time has been taken to get it proper for subsequent season.

“Feedback suggests our away aid experience is sub best and we hope to get improvement on that with the 5% allocation we will receive at Parkhead.”

READ MORE: Kick-off time of Scottish Cup remaining between Rangers

Martin O’Neill Announced by Celtic

Celtic Make Martin O’Neill Announcement

Celtic has announced that Martin O’Neill will be attending the upcoming Celtic Player of the Year Awards.

Soccer Football – Championship – Nottingham Forest v Bolton Wanderers – The City Ground, Nottingham, Britain – May 5, 2019 Nottingham Forest supervisor Martin O’Neill before the in shape Action Images/Peter Cziborra

O’Neill, who guided the club to multiple domestic titles and a UEFA Cup Final look during his tenure, will be supplying an award at the gala match scheduled for Sunday, May 12.

The ceremony is set to show up simply a day after a doubtlessly decisive Glasgow Derby when Celtic ought to perchance prolong their lead in the Premiership if they impervious a victory in opposition to Rangers. However, earlier than the derby, the team faces necessary matches in opposition to Dundee and Hearts.

🟢 MARTIN O’NEILL ⚪️

FORMER #CELTICFC MANAGER, @MONEILL31, JOINS A HOST OF ICONIC AWARD PRESENTERS AS WE CELEBRATE 20 YEARS OF THE #CELTICPOTY AWARDS AT THE OVO HYDRO ON SUNDAY, MAY 12, 2024! 🍀🏆

DON’T MISS OUT – LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE BELOW ⤵️

— CELTIC FOOTBALL CLUB (@CELTICFC) APRIL 25, 2024

O’Neill will join a star-studded lineup of former Celtic luminaries slated to current awards, inclusive of Ronny Deila, Chris Sutton, Aiden McGeady, Shaun Maloney, Charlie Mulgrew, Stan Petrov, and John Hartson. The match promises to be a memorable evening, celebrating the season’s first-rate performances, with Des Clarke and Sebahn Aherne web hosting the festivities.

It’s looking set to be a properly night.

Celtic progress in Scottish Cup with comfortable win over Buckie Thistle

Celtic’s comfortable win over Buckie Thistle…

Kyogo Furuhashi celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the the Celtic v Buckie Thistle – Scottish Cup match at Celtic Park on January 21, 2024.

As expected Celtic eased into the fourth round of the Scottish Cup after a comprehensive win over Highland league side Buckie Thistle. Our reward is an away fourth round tie against St Mirren in the only all Premiership fourth round tie and what will be the tie of the round.

It took us twenty five minutes to get on the scoresheet, but the scoreline with all due respect to Buckie flattered them a little.

Paulo Bernardo’s third goal in four games got us off the mark, and it was an exquisite finish by the Portuguese midfielder. It was eerie similar to his fellow countryman Jota’s finish against theRangers last season. Ok it was against lesser opposition, but it was still a quality goal all the same.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JANUARY 21: Odin Holm scores his team’s second goal during the the Celtic v Buckie Thistle – Scottish Cup match at Celtic Park on January 21, 2024 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Odin Thiago Holm opened his account for the club to make it two with a decent finish, before Kyogo struck to give the game the scoreline it more than deserved heading into the interval.

Luis Palma struck a fine finish to make it four, and then Rocco Vata hit his first goal for the club at first team level after fine work from Mikey Johnston to give the game the scoreline it deserved.

It was a more than deserved win despite the dogged display by the Highland League side, but in all honesty if it wasn’t for their goalkeeper and some questionable offside calls it could easily have reached double figures.

Kudos to all the supporters who braved the elements to flock to Paradise, and also to the healthy travelling support from Moray who backed their side superbly.

All in all it was decent days work for the players as they got some much needed match fitness as we get ready for some vital upcoming league fixtures.

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

Three talking points from Celtic’s win over Buckie Thistle

Reliable source confirms Celtic have opened contract talks with Carter-Vickers

Matt O’Riley catches Celtic gaffe by Neil Lennon as midfielder forces Parkhead hero into hasty backtrack

The star man was quick off the mark to catch out a misstep from the former Parkhead boss.

Celtic star Matt O’Riley with Parkhead hero Neil Lennon

He has been a standout for Celtic so far on the pitch and Matt O’Riley wasn’t willing to let anything slip by him off it – even former Parkhead boss Neil Lennon.

The Danish international was instrumental again as the Premiership leaders emerged from cold storage after the winter break to play a key part in the Scottish Cup rout of Highland League side Buckie Thistle.

O’Riley pulled the strings in midfield in the absence of captain Callum McGregor as the Hoops ran out 5-0 winners – but could have added to that total against the battling minnows had the offside flag not ruled out several other strikes.

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It’s these type of displays that have led to the likes of Girona and Inter Milan taking glances at O’Riley during the January transfer window – and Lennon joined his fan club before making a gaffe over the next fixture that Celtic will face. Lennon was full of praise for the playmaker and his contributions so far this season. He lauded him on Viaplay during a post-match debrief stating: “I don’t know how many goals and assists you have got this season. From a midfield point of view that is priceless.”

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The former Parkhead player and boss went on: “Next game is Hibs away…” However, O’Riley immediately struck a bemused figure asking: “Is it?”

Host Emma Dodds interjected: “Ross County?” Before O’Riley also noted “Ross County” as he pointed and pulled a face at the Irishman.

Lennon backtracked: “Sorry, sorry I got my fixture list wrong. It’s my age I think.” Just for clarity, it is Ross County who will be the next side to face off against Brendan Rodgers men at Celtic Park.

Brendan Rodgers throws Celtic doors open to Buckie as dressing room speech goes down a storm with Graeme Stewart

The Celtic gaffer had some words for the Highland League men before inviting them across the corridor for signed strips and sushi.

Brendan Rodgers and Buckie Thistle manager Graeme Stewart

Beaming Buckie boss Graeme Stewart showered praise on his players after watching them go toe-to-toe with Scotland’s champions.

The Highland League minnows went down to a 5-0 thumping at Parkhead as their Scottish Cup fairy tale story came crashing to an end. But Stewart was left bursting with pride with the nature of his side’s performance – and thrilled that it took Celtic almost 25 first half minutes to score the breakthrough goal.

Stewart said: “We only had one training session to play in that shape, with five at the back because we’ve never played that before. Normally we dominate possession like Celtic did today.

So we had one training session Friday night and then a few meetings last night in the team hotel. I thought they were superb, though I don’t want to get carried away. When the draw came out I said we have to enjoy it but not get caught up in it, and I don’t think we did.

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“When you get to 25 minutes and it’s still 0-0 you think, ‘This is happening here!’. But overall, I thought the attitude was tremendous, in the dressing room the boys are out on their feet and cramping up.”

Buckie could have been punished even more brutally had Celtic not had four more goals chopped off for offside. But the boss insisted it was part of his plan. He went on: “Yes, that was part of the game plan – but more than we would have liked. I gave them too much information for one game, trust me. I gave them about four hours of stuff. I thought they handled it perfectly. They are all clever, intelligent players.”

And Stewart revealed how he was blindsided by Brendan Rodgers’ decision to give skipper Callum McGregor an unexpected day off. He laughed: “It certainly messed up my team talk because so much of it was about him.

“I guessed their team apart from him, but I was delighted with the respect shown. Brendan Rodgers came into our changing room after the game and was a class act. He gave a wee speech and said he was delighted with our attitude.

“The gave us so much respect and took it seriously and that was good. We would rather have played against that than a second-string team. Playing the full team the guys can keep that memory forever.

“None of the players were in our changing room after the game – they were all in the Celtic changing room. Celtic were brilliant, taking them in. Though I noticed Celtic had sushi and nicer food than us.

“Brendan Rodgers was brilliant. He told us to come in and gave us some signed strips. They didn’t have to do that. One or two even asked for our strips, which I’m not happy about. I said to the guys they are getting fined now because they cost us 50 quid!”

Exclusive: Celtic make decision on accepting offer for £20m-valued star

Sources: Celtic make Cameron Carter-Vickers transfer decision as West Ham news emerges

Celtic will block offers for Cameron Carter-Vickers this month amid interest from Premier League sides, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking to the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track Podcast, transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed the Hoops “wouldn’t consider” selling the centre-back, who they value at £20million.

The USMNT international is reportedly gaining interest from West Ham United, Nottingham Forest and Brentford this month, but Celtic are expected to knock back any offers in January.

Brendan Rodgers’ side have had issues in their backline this season and feel they can’t afford to depart with one of their best defensive options – even for a huge fee.

The 26-year-old has been a standout for the Hoops since his arrival, initially on loan, from Tottenham in 2021.

He arrived permanently for a reported fee of £6million, but the Hoops would expect to make a significant profit if interest remains in later windows.

Injuries have forced him to miss 12 games in all competitions this season, including Celtic’s most recent league games against Rangers and St Mirren.

Should Celtic secure their £20million valuation for Carter-Vickers, he would be amongst the club’s record departures – the top being Jota’s reported £25million move to Al Ittihad in the summer.

Celtic remain at the top of the league and have an eight-point gap ahead of second-place Rangers.

They are next in action against fifth-tier Buckie Thistle in the Scottish Cup on Sunday afternoon (21 January).

In other news, Sources: Celtic ready to accept offers for six stars this month – including £30,000-a-week big earner.

For more Celtic and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.

CELTIC AND ASTON VILLA IN £2M BATTLE AS DIRECTOR ADMITS EXIT IS ‘GETTING CLOSE’

Elfsborg appear to have confirmed that Hakon Valdimarsson is ‘getting close’ to a departure with Celtic reportedly facing competition from Premier League giants Aston Villa.

With Joe Hart’s contract expiring, Celtic cannot ignore the need for a new number one for much longer. And with neither Scott Bain nor Benjamin Siegrist seemingly under consideration to make the step up, the Scottish champions are likely to pursue an outside hire.

Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin is reportedly one option. Though that has been complicated by the fact that the Ukrainian appears to have replaced Kepa Arrizabalaga as the Spanish giants’ first-choice in the injury-enforced absence of Thibaut Courtois.

Hakon Valdimarsson, then, is not just more affordable than Lunin – reportedly valued at around £2 million – but more attainable too.

Portugal V Iceland: Group J – UEFA EURO 2024 European Qualifiers
Photo by Alex Nicodim/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Aston Villa and Celtic like Hakon Valdimarsson
There is interest from Celtic, per the Goteborgs Posten. Fabrizio Romano, meanwhile, believes that both Aston Villa and FC Copenhagen have submitted ‘formal bids’ in recent days for the 2023 Allsvenskan Goalkeeper of the Year.

And while Elfsborg’s sporting director would not be drawn on exactly which clubs are in the mix, he does appear to suggest that Valdimarsson is edging closer to a departure during Swedish football’s off-season.

“Hakon is really good,” Stefan Andreasson tells Fotboll Direkt. “And we have discussions with some clubs.

“We’ll talk next week about which options are available. Which are concrete. What’s good for Elfsborg and what’s good for him. Then we’ll see. It’s getting close.”

Andreasson, speaking after Elfsborg held an open training session on Friday, admitted that he is flattered to have caught the eye of Unai Emery’s Champions League-chasing Aston Villa outfit.

However, he also pointed out that the promise of regular game time would likely play a big role in choosing his next club. And the number one role at Villa Park looks beyond him unless Emiliano Martinez – the club’s World Cup-winning shot-stopper – departs first.

Goalkeeper may be divided on Villa Park sswitch
“It is big. They are a top club in the Premier League and they are playing really well. It is huge to see that they are interested. It shows that I have done well,” Valdimarsson explains to Aftonbladet.

“That could be (a good move for me). It’s top players, it’s the highest quality of everything. Training with some of the world’s best players is good for your development.”

“FCK (Copenhagen) is a big club. They have played in the Champions League two years in a row and are probably Scandinavia’s biggest team. It is not as big as the Premier League, but it could also be a good step,” Valdimarsson adds.

“The goal is always to be able to play, if I move. Right now, I’m in Elfsborg and don’t know what will happen.

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Reporter has heard that Celtic are making progress to sign “crazy” player

The Hoops have been priced out of a deal for an alternative target.

rodgers-celtic-premiership-van-hooijdonk-oh-transfer
Earlier this week, Celtic completed their first signing of the January transfer window with a £3m deal for Rapid Vienna winger Nicolas Kuhn, but Brendan Rodgers doesn’t intend to stop there. Before the deadline, the Hoops boss also wants to add a left-back and a striker to his squad.

One candidate for the latter position is Bologna’s Sydney van Hooijdonk, son of the former Celtic man Pierre, and one newspaper in Italy has even predicted that he’ll make the move to Parkhead in the second half of the window.

Another is Brondby’s Mathias Kvistgaarden. It’s been nearly a week now since we learned that Celtic were in talks with the Danish club over a transfer, and it seems as if there’s been an encouraging development in their pursuit.

Celtic take step towards Kvistgaarden deal
According to Football Insider reporter Pete O’Rourke, Celtic are “making progress” on a deal for Kvistgaarden.

If the Scottish Premiership leaders receive “encouragement” from Brondby, they could launch an offer.

Brendan-Rodgers-Celtic
Meanwhile, the proposed move for Van Hooijdonk “has hit a stumbling block”, because it’s believed it would take at least £8m for Bologna to sell him – a fee that’s “too steep” for Celtic in the mid-season market. Crucially, Kvistgaarden is expected to be available “on more favourable terms”.

“Crazy” Kvistgaarden has edge over Van Hooijdonk
21-year-old Kvistgaarden has been with Brondby since 2018, racking up 81 appearances for the club, but this is the year where he’s really come alive.

He scored six goals and provided three assists in his last six league games at the back end of 2022/23, a “crazy” run of form in the words of talent scout Jacek Kulig, and he’s carried that momentum into the current campaign with 14 direct goal contributions (seven goals, seven assists) in 21 appearances.

The youngster ranks second in the league for assists and fourth for overall goal contributions. If he keeps this up, be it at Brondby or at Celtic, it surely won’t be long before he graduates from Denmark’s Under-21s (for whom he’s played 16 games) to the senior team.

o’riley-celtic-transfer-gossip-premiership-rodgers

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Celtic could repeat O’Riley blinder with swoop for £1.6k-p/w “hero”
In light of his exploits this term, you’d expect him to arrive in Glasgow full of confidence and in peak condition, but the same can’t be said for Van Hooijdonk.

The Dutchman has found himself down the pecking order at Bologna, starting just two of his side’s 20 league games and watching 10 matches as an unused substitute.

Given that Celtic’s joint-top scorer is a midfielder in Matt O’Riley (10 goals), and Kyogo Furuhashi is the only one of their forwards to score more than seven goals this season, they need somebody who can make an instant impact in whatever capacity as they battle for the title with Rangers.

There will be pressure on the new face to swiftly boost Rodgers’ firepower, and Kvistgaarden looks better-placed to live up to that task. As such, it may not be the worst thing that Van Hooijdonk is out of their price range.

Will Celtic keep Matt O’Riley and where are the big Scottish Cup shocks coming this weekend? Saturday Jury…

The Record Sport team look ahead to a huge weekend of Scottish Cup fourth action and debate the latest big transfer debates.

Celtic’s Matt O’Riley celebrates

Where are the big Scottish Cup shocks coming this weekend?
ANDY NEWPORT: St Johnstone’s trip to an Airdrie side going great guns under impressive young player boss Rhys McCabe looks like a real banana skin. And it would be no surprise to see Livingston fall to Championship contenders Raith.

FRASER WILSON: There’s no danger of a Darvel-esque upset but St Johnstone have a tough task heading to Airdrie while Livi could come a cropper against Raith – perhaps that wouldn’t go down as a shock though.

MICHAEL GANNON: The big boys can rest easy, this will be a shock free cup weekend.

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Can Celtic keep hold of Matt O’Riley until the end of the season?
ANDY: Yes and they have to. The title race is far from over and the Denmark international could be pivotal to their aspirations. Girona have cash to spend given their City Group tie up and should be told it will require a club record fee for Celtic to part ways.

FRASER: With three and a half years left on his contract Celtic are in the strongest of positions and unless someone arrives with an eye watering offer I’d expect the midfielder to be at Parkhead til at the very least the end of this season if not the following summer.

MICHAEL: Celtic don’t have to sell and the player is happy at Parkhead. But we need to be realistic, if a mega money £30m bid or something lands from England, the Hoops could be powerless to stop it.

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What does Philippe Clement need in the remaining days in the window to tool up for the title fight?

ANDY: A proper centre forward is the glaring requirement for this Rangers team. Cyriel Dessers simply isn’t the answer and Clement still doesn’t know if he’ll see Danilo or Kemar Roofe again this term.

Fabio Silva has come in but looks like he’s better suited to coming in off the left wing. Gers need an out and out No9 if they are to properly push Celtic.

Philippe Clement and his Rangers players (Image: SNS Group)
FRASER: The most important addition he could make with the next five months in mind would be a striker that guarantees goals.

MICHAEL: The Gers boss still looks a little short. He could do with nailing down the left back role and another attacker wouldn’t go amiss.

After his first round exit at the Australian Open, it’s it time for our Andy Murray to finally hang up the racquet?

ANDY: He’s earned the right to do what he wants. For me, the Dunblane ace is the nation’s greatest ever sportsman and if he wants to carry on swinging his strings around knowing he won’t compete for prizes then let him. It’s his metal hip and he can do what he wants with it.

FRASER: We’ve all had a brilliant ride watching Murray whose place among Scotland’s sporting greats is secured. But it looks like the latter stages of majors is now beyond him.

His heroic efforts to fight back from hip surgery deserve better but this year looks like being his last.

MICHAEL: Not quite yet. Our greatest sportsman deserves one last crack at Wimbledon and the chance to properly say goodbye to the game.

Nicolas Kuhn is a risky Celtic transfer but Brendan Rodgers says he is quality and buck now stops with him – Chris Sutton

The former Hoops strike hero and Record Sport columnist has his say on the new Parkhead.

New Celtic Signing Nicolas Kuhn

Brendan Rodgers has described Nicolas Kuhn as having an excellent level of quality.

There’s no conjecture in those words. The manager wants a certain standard of player and, judging by his own comments, that’s what he’s been given in the German. The Celtic boss made a call on quality. Not projects.

I stated last weekend I felt Kuhn was one for the project list, but it is the opinion of Rodgers that counts when it comes to signings.

So now it’s up to Kuhn to prove him correct. Quite simply, Rodgers has to stand and fall by signings. Every manager does.

Kuhn is a wide attacking player and where he fits into it all will be fascinating.

The vibes are he plays off the right coming inside and that door is wide open at the moment with Daizen Maeda at the Asian Cup. Liel Abada returned from injury just before shutdown, but that lad has had plenty to deal with this season and it’s hard to know what he’ll produce on a consistent basis.

At £3million with plenty of starts for Rapid Vienna before arriving, Kuhn has to be oven-ready and deliver big displays from the minute he steps onto the park.

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Rodgers needs arrivals to boost his starting team. Not further bloat the squad. So Kuhn has to go in there and hit the ground running.

If he fails and ends up spending most time on the bench, he’ll join the dreaded category of fringe men and that’ll irritate fans. For all the criticism of the board over what’s being sought and what’s being bought, this one’s on the boss.

Recruitment staff are important to help whittle down the lists when a manager gives a description of the type he wants from a certain position.

But, once recommended, it’s dependent on Rodgers’ final judgment. That’s what will be under scrutiny here and that’s how it should be. Yes it matters to a degree how much a club will spend. It’s stupid to suggest otherwise, but the board works within the model and I have no qualms about it because Rodgers knows what it is.

He says he’s happy to work within it. So he’s got to get it right. I really don’t understand fans screaming for massive outlays when it’s been made perfectly clear this is the club’s strategy. And, I’ll say it again, if it is done properly, it can be hugely effective.

The interest this week that has emerged surrounding Cameron Carter-Vickers just got me thinking about how best Celtic can make it work. Evidence suggests the ones in the £2m-to-£3m bracket are risky in the sense you may end up with little in return. But Matt O’Riley, Maeda and Reo Hatate are examples that it can work, although you need to be either extremely shrewd or lucky to get that three for a sum total of about £4.5m, as Ange Postecoglou managed to do.

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Hand on heart, do you really see Celtic getting much of their outlay back on Kwon Hyeok-kyu, who has just gone on loan to St Mirren? You can never say never.

Stephen Robinson and Kwon
Kristoffer Ajer went to Brentford for a right few quid and he cost less than a million from Norway when Ronny Deila bought him.

Rodgers sent him out to Kilmarnock to learn his trade and got there, eventually. So maybe the move to Paisley will have a similar effect on Kwon and, at the same time, that Ajer story tells you that Odin Thiago Holm might turn out to be a good one in the end.

But Celtic also need performers for right now. I know price isn’t the only barometer of a player’s ability as the market where you shop often dictates the figures. Put it this way, if Hatate or Maeda were coming from the English Premier League with their exact same profiles, do you think they could have been snared at J-League prices?

Of course not. But there’s a balance and I can understand why fans would like to see just a little more spent on more proven quality to almost guarantee the win-win scenario.

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Nicolas Kuhn brings ‘special’ Celtic X factor to table as Austrian insider pinpoints best position where he’ll thrive
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Celtic transfer state of play on Beck, Carter Vickers and Kelleher as van Hooijdonk edges closer to Bologna exit
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Celtic transfer news latest as Sydney van Hooijdonk enters make or break arena while Nicolas Kuhn hits the weights
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Celtic are facing transfer dilemma and Brendan Rodgers plus Mark Lawwell have to walk the wire carefully – Chris Sutton

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Celtic next transfer target after Nicolas Kuhn emerges as Liel Abada resolve to be tested following ‘offers’

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6 left backs linked to Celtic as Brendan Rodgers eyes ticking off the next transfer priority

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Celtic transfer news latest as Brendan Rodgers targets two key positions but striker would cost ‘top dollar’
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Celtic are facing transfer dilemma and Brendan Rodgers plus Mark Lawwell have to walk the wire carefully – Chris Sutton

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The club had no issues paying £9m for Odsonne Edouard because they knew, barring a disaster, they were not going to lose money. In the end, they doubled their cash when Crystal Palace stepped onto the scene. Celtic had to spend £6m to get Jota signed. Paying that little more ended up netting them £25m when the Saudis came calling. In the same summer, Carter-Vickers cost the same £6m. If the English do come knocking in the summer, I’d say you are looking at another £20m.

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That’s really what the fans want to see. Chunky investments bringing even healthier returns. I’m fairly sure Carter-Vickers and O’Riley will stay until at least the summer, but they’ll go one day and their bumper transfer fees when departing will just push the narrative of pay higher, sell higher. Fans just want ready-made players who can go straight into the side and make it better.

Kuhn has to fall into that bracket. He’s back towards the riskier end of the scale if you are looking purely at transfer fee, but it’s about the quality and Rodgers says Kuhn has it. That’s the manager’s judgment. Not that of the board. So Rodgers has to have picked a good one, and keep finding good ones, because the buck stops with him.

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The Scottish giants are reportedly keen on a deal for the defensive midfielder.

Celtic-Matt-O’Riley-Leeds-Farke-Championship-transfer
The January transfer window is due to slam shut in just over a week and Scottish giants Celtic appear set to enjoy, or endure, a busy end to the month.

Brendan Rodgers has already made one signing so far this month as 24-year-old winger Nicolas Kuhn has joined from Austrian side Rapid Wien on a five-and-a-half-year deal.

That is expected to be the first of many before the end of the window as the Northern Irish head coach also has his eye on a left-back, a goalkeeper, and a striker, according to a recent report from Football Insider.

Brendan-Rodgers-Celtic
This means that Hoops supporters could have an exciting 12 days or so to look forward to if the club are able to land their top targets to bolster the squad ahead of the second half of the season.

Alongside Kuhn, a left-back, a goalkeeper, and a centre-forward, Celtic are also reportedly attempting to land a new defensive midfielder for Rodgers.

Celtic have held talks to land South Korean talent
According to the Daily Record, the Bhoys have held talks with FC Gwangju over a deal to sign their talented enforcer Ho-yeon Jung before the end of the window.

The Scottish giants are eyeing up a swoop for the impressive midfielder to bolster their options in the middle of the park, which comes after Hyeok-kyu Kwon was allowed to join St. Mirren on loan until the end of the season earlier this month.

hyeok-kyu-kwon-celtic-premiership-jung-rodgers-transfer
It states that there is a ‘good’ chance that a move will progress between the two sides over a transfer for the South Korean battler before the deadline at the start of February.

However, there is no mention of how much Gwangju would demand for his services, how much Celtic are prepared to pay for him in January, or how the talks between the two clubs went.

The Daily Record do add, though, that the South Korean side would prefer Jung to depart at the end of the year. This suggests that they could put a deal off until the end of the season or ask the Hoops to loan him back to them until the 2023/24 campaign.

If Celtic are able to tempt Gwangju into a deal for the midfielder before the deadline, Rodgers could land a dream partner for Matt O’Riley in the middle of the park.

o’riley-palma-rodgers-premiership-celtic
Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph has reported that Spanish side Girona are interested in a deal to sign the Denmark international ahead of the second half of the campaign.

However, the reporter stated that the club are in a strong position after the central midfielder put pen to paper on a ‘bumper’ contract, which means that they are in control of the situation.

O’Riley’s Premiership dominance this season

The 23-year-old magician has been in magnificent form so far this season for the Hoops and has proven himself to be one of the manager’s top performers in the division.

He has made the Scottish Premiership his playground with his ability to influence matches at the top end of the pitch on a regular basis for the Bhoys.

O’Riley has contributed with ten goals and seven assists in 21 top-flight matches as a central midfielder, which is more than one goal contribution every other game on average.

No Celtic player has scored more league goals than the Danish ace. He is the only ace who has made it into the double figures for Rodgers, with Kyogo Furuhashi (eight) and David Turnbull (seven) the closest to him.

Meanwhile, Luis Palma (nine) is the only Hoops star with more assists than O’Riley and the only player in the squad with more key passes per game (3.4) than the ex-Fulham prospect (2.6).

22/23 Premiership

Matt O’Riley (via Sofascore)

Appearances

Goals

Three

Assists

Big chances created

Key passes per game

2.2

As you can see in the table above, the impressive Celtic star has significantly improved his goalscoring output from the middle of the park in comparison to last season.

He has developed the ability to find the back of the net on a regular basis whilst remaining a constant creative presence for his teammates.

Why Jung could be a dream partner for O’Riley

Rodgers could now land a dream partner for O’Riley in midfield with a deal for Jung as he is an impressive defensive midfielder who is also super reliable in possession.

The 23-year-old caught the eye with his impressive displays in the top-flight of South Korean football throughout 2023 and could be an excellent signing for Celtic if the talented ace can translate those showings over to the Premiership.

Most recent performance for Gwangju

Vs Pohang Steelers (03/12/23)

Ho-yeon Jung (via Sofascore)

Minutes played

Sofascore rating

7.6

Duels won

Three

Pass accuracy

86%

Chances created

Five

As you can see in the table above, Jung is capable of having highly creative performances in midfield whilst also being a strong presence off the ball.

Jung made 34 K League 1 appearances throughout 2023 and provided his manager with a tough-tackling option, with 2.9 tackles and interceptions combined and 5.4 ball recoveries per match.

Meanwhile, no Celtic midfielder has managed more than 2.6 tackles and interceptions per game in the Premiership this season, which suggests that the Hoops target could add a bit more steel to Rodgers’ options in that position.

The 5 foot 11 gem, who was once described as a “good prospect” by Asian football expert Dario Focardi, is also impressive with his work in possession.

Jung completed 90% of his attempted passes in the K League 1 last year and only Callum McGregor (93%) and Cameron Carter-Vickers (92.1%) have averaged a higher success rate in the Premiership out of every Celtic player with at least one start.

This suggests that the Gwangju star could retain the ball at an exceptional rate for Rodgers whilst also being a fantastic defender who can win possession back multiple times per game by cutting out opposition attacks.

Therefore, Jung could be a dream partner for O’Riley as he could sit at the base of the midfield and recover the ball before using his efficient passing to find the Danish magician in dangerous positions, where he can then work his magic in the final third.

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Brendan Rodgers leaps to defence of Celtic player ‘who suffered from Callum McGregor syndrome’

Taylor can get it in neck from fans but manager is well aware of his credentials

By Andrew Smith

Celtic’s need to sign a left-back has become a mantra for the club’s support.

The faithful may be comforted that Brendan Rodgers sees the requirement for such an acquisition – and less so over the driver for doing so.

Greg Taylor has appeared to have a target on his back from the fanbase throughout his four-and-a-half years since his £3million move from Kilmarnock. In contrast, the Celtic manager goes out of his way to offer the most effusive pat on the back to the 26-year-old for what he has produced across the first six months of his second spell, even as he points to challenges for the player at Champions League level.

Taylor’s dependency and consistency is reflected in the fact he has started every one of the club’s 29 games this season, although there is some mitigation with Rodgers patently concluding that Alexandro Bernabei does not fit the bill of a reliable deputy. “I’ve got to say, Greg Taylor has been brilliant for me,” said Rodgers ahead of Sunday’s Scottish Cup clash against Buckie Thistle.

“Clearly there is a loading issue there we need to be mindful of if we don’t bring in support there. I know I’ve got Scalesy [Liam Scales] who can play there, in a worst case scenario. But Greg has been great for me.

Like some of the players, he probably took some time to adapt to what we’ve been asking them to do. But now with everyone in sync, you can see how much he’s improved from a defensive perspective and the football side of his game is very good. I really, really like him. Being at a big club is about competition and it’s my job to make the squad as good as it can be.”

Celtic’s Greg Taylor has featured in every match this season.
Celtic’s Greg Taylor has featured in every match this season.

It was put to Rodgers that the limited appreciation for Taylor from the Celtic stands could be labelled as ‘the James Forrest syndrome’ – a development where indigenous players, such as the pair, tend to be subjected to unwarranted scrutiny and stick because of their ordinariness set against the seductiveness of foreign imports.

He pushed that further. “It is a bit like that, probably like the Callum McGregor syndrome up until a couple of years ago,” continued the Celtic manager. “It’s just the nature of it sometimes, the Scottish boys might not get the same level of affinity as some of the others. When I was last here I saw Greg as a young player at Kilmarnock.

We had Kieran [Tierney] here, who was brilliant for me. But I went away and I watched him over these last few years. He’s done great. I love working with him. I see him every day, he’s a top professional who looks after himself.

“I remember seeing him in Dubai during one of the breaks a few years back, when I was at Leicester. I bumped into him in the gym and we said hello. But I watched him and from the minute he started working … he never lost focus on what he needed to do.

I remember coming away from that and thinking this was a young professional who is doing everything he can to look after himself and do things right.

“That’s what I’ve seen since coming back here. He’s a great guy who doesn’t get the credit he deserves. He’s been brilliant. The Champions League is a challenge for a lot of players, [but] I really enjoy working with him. You always need these personalities.

Greg is a real voice on the pitch. He’s very respectful of everything and you need players with that spirit and mentality. [It’s just] my job is to bring competition to the squad in a number of areas.”

BBC man reacts to Celtic target who “ticks all the boxes” at Parkhead

Celtic, top of the Scottish Premiership and on course to seal yet another league title under Brendan Rodgers after he returned last summer, have the opportunity to strengthen even further this month. And whilst they’re reportedly unlikely to land one particular deal, pundit Alan Hutton believes that the Scottish giants should be optimistic ahead of the summer.

Celtic transfer news
With the January window well underway, Celtic have been linked with reinforcements that could help them on their way to a third consecutive league title.

According to reports, Celtic have held talks with Gwangju FC midfielder Jung Ho-Yeon in what could prove to be a shrewd piece of business if all goes well. Meanwhile, the Bhoys have already sealed a deal from elsewhere this month, welcoming Nicolas Kuhn from Rapid Vienna.

After signing on the dotted line, Kuhn said: “Celtic is one of the biggest clubs around and I’m really happy to be here. At Celtic, it’s about doing all we can to win every game, so that is the challenge here. I can’t wait to get going and do my very best for our supporters.”

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Celtic are now interested in winning race to sign Tommy Conway
A player that Rodgers may not be able to welcome with open arms this month, however, is Caoimhin Kelleher.

According to reports, Liverpool will reject any bids for Kelleher this month, but Hutton believes that Celtic should be optimistic about their chances to secure a summer deal for the target.

Talking to Football Insider, the former Premier League full-back and BBC pundit said: “He’s an outstanding goalkeeper. We don’t see too much of him at Liverpool, but when it comes to the cup games, Jurgen Klopp obviously trusts him a lot for him to go and play. Every time I’ve watched him, I think he’s been amazing.

“He’s only 25 years old at this stage, so obviously with the Joe Hart situation, the fans always wanted to see somebody come in and put pressure on him.

I can’t see it happening in January, to be honest, but fans should be more optimistic about it happening in the summer. With his experience at a big football club, he ticks all the boxes. They’ll be looking at him as the long-term replacement.”

“Outstanding” Kelleher could be the perfect Hart replacement
With Hart’s contract set to expire this summer as things stand, Celtic may have no choice but to turn to the market for a fresh face in between the sticks. And they should look no further than Kelleher.

Rooted behind Alisson Becker in the pecking order at Liverpool, mainly thanks to how incredible the Brazilian is, rather than anything against the Celtic target, Kelleher is at somewhat of a crossroads in his career.

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At 25, it could be the perfect time to bring an end to his Anfield career and instead move on and take a number one spot over a backup role. With experience in cup finals, the Champions League and the Premier League already under his belt, he could be the perfect long-term replacement for Hart.

Although a deal seems unlikely this month, Celtic should swoop in this summer to sign the Liverpool shot-stopper, whose need for a number-one spot is growing more and more desperate with each season.

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TRANSFER RUMOURS

Tom is a football writer who has written for a number of websites and newspapers, creating content on everything from non-league, the Premier League and the top five European leagues over the last four years.

Tom is also a Liverpool fan and a University of Brighton student who can often be found on Twitter talking about the Reds.

Rangers stance shared as Leeds eye move to sign “magic” player
A reliable reporter has provided a key update.

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Rangers could lose a “special” player during the January transfer window, with a new transfer report claiming a big English club are eyeing a move for him.

Rangers transfer news
The Gers could delve into the transfer market this month, as Philippe Clement looks to further perfect his squad between now and the end of the season.

A host of different left-backs have been linked with moves to Ibrox, ahead of the possible exit of Ridvan Yilmaz, with Liverpool youngster Owen Beck and Benfica ace David Jurasek among those in the mix to come in.

That isn’t the only position that is being focused on, however, with West Ham right-back Ben Johnson someone who Rangers are fighting other clubs for, as he looks increasingly likely to leave the London Stadium before the month comes to an end.

Leeds want Rangers ace Borna Barisic
According to a new update from Football Scotland’s reliable reporter Mark Hendry, Leeds United are among the clubs interested in signing Rangers left-back Borna Barisic, however, a new contract at Ibrox is also not ruled out. Yilmaz’s exit is also possible, ahead of a potential switch to Galatasaray.

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“Borna Barisic has suitors this month in Leeds United and around Europe in France, Spain and Germany but Gers want him to sign a new contract and have put the question forward for the left-back to consider. Meanwhile another left-back, Ridvan Yilmaz, is still having his future discussed with Hellas Verona wanting the player. Galatasaray reportedly had a bid rejected as Gers look to move him on.”

Barisic has been a brilliant player for Rangers over a significant period of time, racking up a total of 224 appearances for the Scottish Premiership giants, so losing him midway through the season could be a blow, given his experience of title races in the past.

The 31-year-old is also someone who was lauded by Steven Gerrard during his time as Gers manager, with the Liverpool legend hailing a brilliant goal he scored back in 2019:

“It’s a moment of magic. I always felt that it would take a moment of brilliance from one of the front men or wide men, or a really well-executed free-kick. Thankfully Borna stepped up and he deserves all the credit that he gets. I’ve seen him do that many times on the training pitch but it’s alright doing that when nobody’s there. You’ve got to do it in big moments so fair play to him.”

This season, Barisic has started nine league games, invariably sharing playing time with Yilmaz, also winning an average of 1.8 aerial duels per game, and it would be better to keep hold of him for the time being, especially if his fellow left-back moves on.

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Rangers now weighing up offer to sign “really good athlete”
At 31, his best days could be behind him, or may well be in the relatively near future, but he should be seen as a player who can contribute positively between now and May, potentially leaving at the end of the season instead.

RANGERS
BORNA BARISIC
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Henry is an experienced football writer with a huge passion and knowledge of the game.

With over a decade of writing under his belt, he has been part of Snack Media’s freelance team since 2020. He is also a main contributor for This Is Anfield, one of the world’s biggest Reds-related sites, where he writes features and news, and covers matchday content, from live blogs to the dreaded Player Ratings.

Henry is a Liverpool fan, which you may have guessed, and has also written articles for the Times and the Guardian, as well as featured on the radio on BBC Radio 5 Live and LBC.

Over the years, he has also accumulated nearly 30,000 followers on Twitter and become a known voice on all things Reds.

Celtic 2 Rangers 3: Instant reaction to the burning issues

Rangers claimed a late win over Celtic in the Sky Sports Cup semi-final..

Rangers sealed their spot in the Sky Sports Cup final after a breathless victory over rivals Celtic.

A bonkers cup tie saw three penalties awarded and a stoppage-time winner in front of enthusiastic split support.

Celtic snatched a lead against the run of play in the second half with Chloe Craig firing home a penalty after a handball against Kathryn Hill.

The Rangers defender made up for her error shortly after though as she forced over the line after a stramash in the box.

With ten minutes left Rangers turned the match on its head as Rio Hardy cut back for Kirsty Maclean who coolly slotted into the bottom corner.

With one minute left, though, Celtic were awarded a second penalty, this time Tessel Middag was adjudged to have fouled in the box even if TV replays suggested she got more than a fair touch on the ball. Craig made no mistake to level again.

But Rangers would have the last laugh to seal the win with a penalty of their own after 95 minutes. Caitlin Hayes had pulled down Hardy in the box and the Rangers striker blasted home to win and send her side into the final.

Cruel start for Elena Sadiku

It was always going to go one of two ways for new Celtic boss Elena Sadiku.

Either, a memorable triumph over rivals Rangers in her dugout debut, or a cruel defeat.

However, no one could have called such a difficult defeat with a losing goal coming with seconds left in added time.

Sadiku wants to be the Queen of Queens for Celtic and that could still come to pass, but as evident at the Excelsior there will always be bumps along the way.

Rangers get the job done

With 12 goals in their previous two outings, it was always expected Rangers would score.

Perhaps less predictable would be the somewhat blunt attack as Jo Potter’s side struggled to find a cutting edge.

Multiple opportunities were passed up, and more denied by the impressive Kelsey Daugherty and the Celtic defence.

Importantly, though, Rangers found a way. First, forcing over the line with Hill and then a terrific finish from Maclean.

And when it came to the crucial moment, Hardy made no mistake.

Incredible entertainment

Three penalties, end-to-end stuff no VAR and an intense rivalry thrown into the mix – that sounds like a recipe for entertainment.

Thankfully, that was exactly the case at the Excelsior as Rangers toppled Celtic in a crazy 97 minutes of action in the Sky Sports Cup.

There was a healthy dose of nerves, quality and dubious decisions all making a great advert for women’s football in Scotland with BBC Alba covering the contest live.

Our women’s game is not in the limelight as often as it should be, and an incredible cup tie was just another statement that the product is there.

Report: Southampton keen on signing £6.5m-rated Celtic target

Maik Nawrocki during the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Aberdeen and Celtic at Pittodrie on 13 August 2023. Photo Stephen Dobson PSI

Southampton are ready to make a move to sign Aberdeen striker Bojan Miovski, who is being tracked by Celtic. The 24-year-old has been watched by the Scottish Champions at various points this season with a view to strengthening in attack.

According to Record Sport, Southampton’s talent spotter Darren Mowbray has been telling the hierarchy to make a January move to take the North Macedonian International to the South Coast.

Aberdeen signed Miovski from MTK Budapest in the summer of 2022. Since arriving in the North East of Scotland, Miovski has scored 32 goals and assisted on 6 occasions in 69 appearances. Mowbray was the man that headed up transfers at Pittodrie and now he’s pitching for Miovski to make the move to the English Championship.

Brendan Rodgers has said that he wants to bring quality into the team and it is expected that between two and four signings will arrive in January. Kyogo and Oh have struggled for form, whether by supply or stuttering confidence, so in the attacking third is a priority.

Southampton have enjoyed buying from Scotland in recent years with Stuart Armstrong, Victor Wanyama, Virgil Van Dijk and Fraser Forster all arriving from Celtic. Most recently, Joe Aribo went from Rangers in 2022 and Southampton were relegated.

Born just as Celtic were stopping the Ten, Lubo98 follows Celtic home and away and helps run his local Celtic Supporters Club. He goes to all the games and is a Law Graduate. Has a particular fondness for Tom Rogic among the current Celts and both Lubo and Henrik form his earliest Celtic memories.

“I Would Expect” – Dundee Loan Star Tipped for Celtic Move

Kenny Miller has suggested that Celtic should consider Dundee’s Owen Beck for a potential transfer.

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

Beck, currently on loan from Liverpool, has made a significant impact in the Scottish Premiership, catching Miller’s attention with his performances.

Miller’s endorsement comes at a time when Celtic Rangers are reportedly in the market for reinforcements in the left-back position. Celtic is looking for a player to challenge Greg Taylor, with it clear that Alexandro Bernabei is not of the desired quality. The Portuguese left-back, Arujo, has been heavily linked with the Hoops over the past few weeks.

Speaking on BBC Radio, quoted by Football Scotland, Miller said, “I’m looking forward to seeing Owen Beck today. The games that I’ve seen him this year he’s been absolutely outstanding. This goes again to show the loans and opportunities that can be presented, from the big clubs in England up to Scotland to play.

“I would expect, for me, maybe the big two up here to be having a look at this player. Both of them could do with a player in that area of the pitch and he’s been outstanding.”

He didn’t impress too much during the ninety minutes on boxing day, but he did make the most tackles in the match, playing on the left of a back 5. He looked comfortable enough defensively, but Celtic are looking to add experience and quality to the squad, I don’t think the 21-year-old will fall under that bracket.

Celtic squad trim begins as Bhoys accept transfer offer

Brendan Rodgers and Celtic are expected to trim several fringe players from the Bhoys squad in the upcoming transfer window.

The Bhoys boss has admitted his playing group is too large and that he wants to reduce overall first-team numbers to around 25 across January and next summer.

Work is already underway and, in fact, the first confirmed exit could come quickly.

The Daily Record reports that Celtic have agreed on a £870,000 fee with Vissel Kobe in Japan to sell midfielder Yosuke Ideguchi, calling time on his ill-fated move to the Bhoys.

Ideguchi arrived in the same transfer window as Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda during the Ange Postecoglou reign but struggled to make the same impact as his compatriots.

The midfielder picked up an unfortunate injury in a Scottish Cup shortly after joining the Hoops and went on to make just six appearances in total.

He joined Avispa Fukuoka on loan for the 2023 J-League season and impressed in his 32 appearances, even earning a Player of the Year nomination.

MORE CELTIC STORIES

Now it appears that Vissel Kobe have won the race for his signature and will allow Celtic to recoup the fee paid for him in the first place.

The J-League transfer window officially opens in mid-January ahead of their 2024 campaign so expect to hear official confirmation of his permanent transfer over the next couple of weeks.

There are plenty of other big contenders to leave the Bhoys next month too as Rodgers looks to shift players who aren’t currently contributing significantly.

Hopefully, it frees up space to bring in the ‘quality’ that the Celtic manager desires.

Aston Villa want title-winning £26m midfielder who ‘glides about the pitch’

Aston Villa have reportedly set their sights on Celtic’s Matt O’Riley ahead of the January transfer window.

The Villans are flying high in the Premier League and in Europe, and could well look to bolster their ranks further in January to maintain their momentum.

According to Sky Sports, Villa are one of several teams that have been watching O’Riley with a view to a potential approach.

As well as the Villans, the likes of West Ham, PSV Eindhoven, Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan are reportedly eyeing the midfielder.

The Sky Sports report claims Inter are prepared to offer an initial loan until the end of the season with an obligation to buy him in the summer.

In terms of price tag, Fabrizio Romano previously claimed that any team wishing to sign O’Riley would have to break the Scottish transfer record.

This currently stands at £25million, the fee Celtic received when they sold Portuguese winger Jota to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad in the summer.

MORE ASTON VILLA STORIES

Aston Villa one of multiple teams in pursuit of Matt O’Riley

Villa have struck gold multiple times in the transfer market this year, and O’Riley would be another outstanding addition to the claret-and-blue ranks.

The 23-year-old is on nine goals and eight assists for the season so far, an especially great tally when you consider he’s a central midfielder.

Furthermore, three of his assists have come in the Champions League, showing how apt he is at the highest level.

In October, Sky Sports pundit Kris Boyd backed O’Riley to be “one of the next ones to go in terms of big money” from the Scottish top flight.

Boyd said on Sky Sports: “You could sit and watch Matt O’Riley play football all day. He’s a top-class player.

“He glides about the pitch and Brendan Rodgers has obviously asked him to get forward more this season. He is reaping the benefits of that.”

Villa – or any other suitors – would likely be looking at £26million and over for O’Riley.

It’s a fairly hefty price tag, but considering Declan Rice went for over £100million, it goes to show that an elite midfielder is worth his weight in gold. And O’Riley has the makings of one.

At the same time, the reigning Scottish champions only have a two-point lead at the top over second-placed Rangers, who have a game in hand. They may refuse to sell O’Riley until the summer at least.

Brendan Rodgers tried to sign £35m PL player during first spell at Celtic

News that Celtic could be interested in Wolves striker, Fabio Silva hit the headlines just prior to this weekend.

TBR Celtic told how the £35m striker is of interest to Brendan Rodgers on Thursday and it seems that this isn’t the only time the Hoops gaffer tried to land him in Paradise.

Former Celtic striker, Andy Walker, was speaking about Fabio Silva and he revealed that his old club tried to sign the Portuguese striker back in Rodgers’ first stint as Hoops boss.

Walker said [The Go Radio Football Show], “He was on Celtic’s radar a number of years ago. I remember doing a game down south when he was playing for Wolves and they were all talking about the interest from Celtic.

“I mean he’s got skill, he’s got ability, he’s played at a good level and that was during Brendan Rodgers’ first spell in charge when he was here with Chris Davies.

“But he’s certainly been on their radar before.”

Now, you might ask what’s the point of that? It was five years ago. Well now that Rodgers has been banging on about adding quality and questions have been raised about whether or not he is in charge of Celtic’s recruitment, at least now the club are linked with a player that Rodgers clearly likes.

Fabio Silva Celtic striker?

Could the young 21-year-old forward really do a job for Celtic? The Portugal u21 international has made 159 career appearances at both youth and senior level.

MORE CELTIC STORIES

In that time he has scored just 32 goals and created 18 assists. However his goalscoring rate at U21 International is very impressive.

Ten in 19 appearances for his country, which includes a hattrick against Liechtenstein in July 2022, is not to be sniffed at so clearly, the young man does have an eye for goal. [Transfermarkt]

Obviously, if any deal were to be brokered between Wolves and Celtic it would be with a view to loan. With the EPL club shelling out £35m for the striker, despite being cash-rich, Celtic are in no place to get anywhere near that figure to bring him to Paradise permanently.

Transfer Latest – Celtic eye Ipswich’s Czechia keeper Vaclav Hladky

Celtic have been linked with former St Mirren goalkeeper Vaclav Hladky as the shot-stopper nears the end of his contract. The Czech Republic star is currently at high-flying Ipswich Town in the English Championship and Kieran McKenna is eager to get the ex-Buddies man tied down on fresh terms as they bid to get promotion to the Premier League.

Vaclav Hladky

It’s no secret that the Bhoys will need a new netminder soon as Joe Hart enters the final months of his contract and will be 37 in any case. Joe has been a great servant to the club but I think we can all agree the time has come for him to step down from the number one position at the club and give a younger, fresher body a chance at the role. With Benjamin Seigrist and Scott Bain on the books, Brendan Rodgers will need to move someone on before he signs a new ‘keeper.

Vaclav Hladky

The club have been linked with various shot-stoppers as they try and succession plan for Joe’s potential retirement or if he decides to just move on from Celtic Park and remain in the game somewhere else. Andriy Lunin of Real Madrid has been strongly linked with a move to the Scottish Premiership Champions and there have been links to Kilmarnock loan star, Will Dennis too, although Rodgers has admitted he doesn’t see it as a priority this coming transfer window.

Czech media publication iSPORT have reported that the Hoops have reignited interest in his services and say the sources are from Scotland too. The 33-year-old will be free to speak to potential suitors next month and whilst Celtic do retain an interest, the goalkeeper may view it as his last shot at the big time of the English Premier League and the wages that could be on offer there. However, nothing is set in stone and Ipswich still need to get there so this could also play on his mind. If Celtic win the Scottish League this year it’s direct entry into the UEFA Champions League group stages which is also a very attractive proposition.

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Glasgow Derby Injury Concern for Celtic

Celtic emerged victorious with a 2-0 win over Livingston, a welcome relief following back-to-back defeats.

However, the triumph came with a tinge of concern as right-back Alistair Johnston appeared to suffer an injury towards the end of the match.

He looked to have pulled up injured, making him a concern for the Glasgow Derby next week.

The game saw Kyogo breaking his goal drought. Kyogo found the net, marking an end to his recent period without goals. This strike set the tone for Celtic’s dominance in the match.

Liam Scales doubled Celtic’s lead by heading in a corner from Palma.

Impressively, Palma also played a crucial role in setting up Kyogo’s goal, showcasing his ability to orchestrate key plays.

The Green Brigade returned to the stands for the win. The group made their presence felt for the first time in 13 games after being absent due to a ban.

Hopefully Brendan Rodgers can provide a positive update on the right back.

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There’s a lot of frustration”-journalist react to “strange” involving Celtic star

Kyogo Furuhashi now in ‘strange situation’ at Celtic

Celtic forward Kyogo Furuhashi looks to have been asked to play a different role under Brendan Rodgers at Parkhead.

HIGHLIGHTS

Celtic forward Kyogo Furuhashi’s goalscoring form under Brendan Rodgers has been “a bit strange” at Parkhead.

The Japan international has been asked to play a different role, drifting wide and dropping back, affecting his goalscoring form for the Hoops.

Celtic could look to trim their squad during the 2024 winter transfer window, with Nat Phillips and Alexandro Bernabei preparing for exits.

Celtic star Kyogo Furuhashi’s lack of goalscoring form under Brendan Rodgers has is “a bit strange” and has caused “a lot of frustration”, as journalist Dean Jones considers his performances as a whole at Parkhead.

The Hoops have enjoyed a positive start to the 2023/24 Scottish Premiership season, but a recent wobble in results will have created a sense of unease around Celtic Park.

Furuhashi has been operating across the front three for Rodgers’ outfit but hasn’t been utilised as the out-and-out striker he has been used to over the past two seasons. Celtic hope to recover from their early European exit and storm to a Premiership and Scottish Cup double.

Kyogo Furuhashi’s career at Celtic

In the summer of 2021, Celtic signed Furuhashi in a deal worth £4.6m from Vissel Kobe, as then-head coach Ange Postecoglou looked to develop a side capable of challenging for the Scottish Premiership title.

The Hoops had been beaten to the post by Rangers at a canter during the 2020/21 campaign and needed a rebuild to topple their Glasgow neighbours.

The Japan international would score 12 Premiership goals in 20 appearances during his first season at Celtic, helping them win the league title alongside a Viaplay Cup triumph.

Having had issues with his fitness during his debut campaign at Parkhead, Furuhashi would find full fitness in his second, hitting the back of the net 27 times in 36 top-flight outings.

The 28-year-old’s goal contribution led to Postecoglou’s side securing a domestic treble during the 2022/23 campaign before the respected head coach departed south of the border to take the vacant job at Tottenham Hotspur.

During the 2023/24 campaign, Furuhashi has struggled to reach the same levels in front of goal. Before Celtic’s trip to Livingston on 23rd December, the centre-forward had scored eight goals and registered three assists in 25 outings for the Bhoys.

However, Furuhashi has been asked to drift into wide areas and drop back to retrieve the ball under Rodgers, operating differently from how he played under Postecoglou.

In November, Jones told GIVEMESPORT that Celtic would not be concerned by exit rumours surrounding Furuhashi after it emerged that Tottenham had sent their top scout to check on players at Postecoglou’s former club.

Kyogo Furuhashi – Celtic stats (23-12-23)

Appearances

109

Goals

Assists

Yellow cards

Stats according to Transfermarkt

Dean Jones on Kyogo Furuhashi

Jones has suggested that Furuhashi can play a different role under Rodgers but that his goalscoring form will suffer. The journalist claims “a lot of frustration” surrounds the change. Asked about Furuhashi’s form, Jones told GIVEMESPORT:

“It is a bit strange. There’s a lot of frustration around this because you’d wonder why it hasn’t happened for him so far. But I feel like he’s being asked to play differently now. While he does seem capable in football in terms of being decent in the wide areas that he appears to be being forced into a bit more, it’s starting to reflect badly on his stats. That’s the first thing people will point out when looking for somebody to blame.

“I think he is a clever player and can play in the way he’s being asked, even though it might not be natural to him. But when you’re used to scoring or seeing someone score goals, it’s tough to accept a role change in which they’re not doing that as often.”

Celtic transfer news on Nat Phillps and Alexandro Bernabei’s future

With the 2024 winter transfer window approaching, Rodgers must consider the future of some of his squad members, who may feel they aren’t getting the opportunities required to stick around at Parkhead.

According to Football Scotland, centre-back Nat Phillips will return to Liverpool following his loan at Celtic next month.

The 26-year-old joined the Glasgow giants on a short-term deal at the end of August but has looked out of sorts, having built up his match fitness.

Phillips, now a fringe player at Celtic Park, won’t see his loan extended further, and another move away from Anfield could be on the cards in January.

Meanwhile, The Sun reports that Alexandro Bernabei is poised to make a winter exit from Celtic in 2024.

The 24-year-old has failed to establish himself under Rodgers and has attracted interest from Italian clubs and outfits from his homeland in Argentina.

The Hoops are keen on signing Estoril’s Tiago Araujo, valued at £4m, to offer competition to Greg Taylor, with Bernabei likely to be the victim in his arrival.

Meanwhile, Football Scotland claims that Celtic have enquired with Austrian outfit Sturm Graz about the possibility of signing former target Szymon Wlodarczyk. However, his value has sky-rocketed to £15m, making a deal financially unviable for the one-time European Cup winners.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Harry Whittingham(1846 Articles Published)

Harry is a football writer with multiple years of experience in the field, having worked as an intern at Port Vale Football Club whilst graduating with a BA Hons degree in Sports Journalism from Staffordshire University in 2021, before coming through the ranks at the O&O Academy at Snack Media.

Having worked as a freelance writer on This is Futbol from July-November 2022, he now works as a freelance writer for the Exclusives team at GIVEMESPORT, mainly covering Premier League football as well as Celtic and Rangers.

Harry has interviewed a range of footballer’s during his career, including ex-Premier League and Republic of Ireland winger Stephen Hunt and Port Vale legend Tom Pope.

Football dominates Harry’s life and when he’s not writing about the sport, he is often found following his beloved Wolverhampton Wanderers home and away, whilst also being an ardent follower of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

CELTIC’S £1m MYSTERY MAN

MYSTIFIED Celtic fans are still awaiting their first glimpse of South Korean midfielder Kwon Hyeon-kyu in competitive action.

Lazio 2-0 Celtic: Brendan Rodgers press…

The anchorman arrived in a £1million move – an initial £850,000 plus add-ons – from K-League outfit Busan IPark in July along with winger Yang Hyun-jun.

Under-21 international Kwon, with the reputation of a determined ball-winner in the middle of the park, played for 45 minutes in James Forrest’s Testimonial Match against Athletic Bilbao at Parkhead at the start of August on an evening Brendan Rodgers utilised 22 players of his first-team squad.

NOW YOU SEE ME…new Bhoy Kwon Hyeon-kyu proudly holds his Celtic jersey on July 25, the day after his arrival.

The 22-year-old enforcer also came on for Matt O’Riley in the 61st minute of the 1-1 draw with Wolves at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium a few days earlier.

Apart from that, there has been no sign of the Hoops’ mystery man although he was named in last weekend’s matchday squad for the home match against Hearts. That was only the fourth time time he has been stripped for action, but has yet to play a solitary minute for the Hoops.

Rodgers also ommitted Kwon from his 25-man squad that was registered with UEFA before the Champions League Group B meetings with Atletico Madrid, Lazio and Feyenoord.

It has become a bewildering situation without any likelihood of the midfielder, who signed a five-year contract in summer, edging closer to a first-team breakthrough.

Possibly next month’s transfer window will provide a solution.

BREAKING: Insane Russell Wilson News Has NFL Fans In Disbelief

Sep 17, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton talks with quarterback Russell Wilson (3) in the fourth quarter against the Washington Commanders at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson has been having an up-and-down season in 2023. Although his 2022 debut with the team was one to forget, he has shown promise this season and has Denver in the mix of the playoff picture.

However, massive news has come out about the veteran quarterback regarding his playing time for the rest of the regular season, and it has put the NFL world into complete shock.

Sources: The #Broncos are, in fact, benching Russell Wilson for the final two games, preserving their financial flexibility for the offseason.

Jarrett Stidham starts. pic.twitter.com/8sh7ORek5Q

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 27, 2023

NFL Fans React

Dec 16, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) warms up before a game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports

The Broncos have announced that Wilson will be benched for the rest of the 2023 season, and backup Jarrett Stidham will take the starting spot. This decision has already stirred up a ton of controversy amongst NFL fans, some saying that head coach Sean Payton is making a horrible decision, while others are saying that Wilson’s time in Denver is over.

That’s actually crazy lol I know they essentially blew their chance last week at the playoffs, but they’re still very much alive.

— Jacoby (@JacobyFC) December 27, 2023

What does that mean? How is the financial flexibility affected by this?

— Zak🔥🐬 (@ThaCreekFreak) December 27, 2023

This marks the end of Russell Wilson’s time in Denver

Broncos will release him prior to the 5th league day of 2024 and will take a massive dead cap hit

Broncos will then look for a new signal caller and Russ will have a similar treatment to Derek Carr last year

— FrontOfficePros (@FrontOfficePros) December 27, 2023

More like they’re trying to save themselves from paying Wilson his bonus 🤣🤣

— khani (@1khan09) December 27, 2023

Russell Wilson’s Career In Denver

Sean Payton needs the Denver Broncos to keep wide receivers for quarterback Russell Wilson

The veteran quarterback has had a drastic improvement in 2023 compared to his debut with the team in 2022. He has amounted to 3,070 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and just eight interceptions this season.

In 2022, he went for 3,524 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. Wilson has not been as productive in the last two years as he was with the Seattle Seahawks for the vast majority of his career. He has proven that he is an elite quarterback over the years, but his stint with Denver has many thinking his career is coming to an end.

The Broncos are 7-8 and in third place in the AFC West division. While their playoff chances this season are slim after their heartbreaking loss to the New England Patriots this past weekend, benching Wilson seems like a weird move by the team at this point in the season. Will the veteran quarterback be on a different squad by the 2024 season, or will he decide to hang up the cleats after being benched?

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Exclusive: Ipswich join race for key Rangers man as ex-Celtic ace tips Rodgers to sign £5m star ‘better than Dembele’

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Exclusive: Ipswich join race for key Rangers man as ex-Celtic ace tips Rodgers to sign £5m star ‘better than Dembele’

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Exclusive: Ipswich join race for key Rangers man as ex-Celtic ace tips Rodgers to sign £5m star ‘better than Dembele’

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