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Celtic was fined by UEFA for “invasion of the field,” and Aberdeen found out how much Helsinki snowballs cost.
Both Celtic and Aberdeen, prominent teams in the Scottish Premiership, have incurred fines as a result of incidents that transpired during their respective European matches towards the conclusion of last year.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin says a ‘final four’ Champions League format could be on the way – Eurosport
On matchday six of the European campaign, Celtic, the reigning Premiership champions, hosted Eredivisie outfit Feyenoord in Glasgow in a match that held little significance in terms of advancing to the next stage. With Celtic already eliminated from contention and Feyenoord securing their place in the Europa League, the encounter was essentially a dead-rubber tie. However, despite the lack of stakes, both clubs have been sanctioned for contentious incidents that occurred during the game. Feyenoord has been penalized with a substantial fine of €16,500 (£14,000) for what UEFA categorized as the “throwing of objects.”

In UEFA’s latest disciplinary decisions stemming from their disciplinary meetings, Celtic has been issued a fine of €5,000 (£4,200) for an incident labeled as the “Invasion of the field of play.” This designation underscores the severity of the breach of protocol during the match. Meanwhile, Aberdeen embarked on a journey to Finland for their encounter with Helsinki, during which they were also implicated in a disciplinary infraction. Aberdeen has been levied a fine of €2,000 (£1,700) for the “throwing of objects” during the match against Helsinki. The game was momentarily halted due to traveling Aberdeen fans hurling snowballs towards the Helsinki goalmouth. In response to the overall conduct during the match, HJK, Helsinki’s team, has received a cautionary warning from UEFA for issues relating to the “late ambulance arrival” and “throwing of objects.”

These fines levied against both Celtic and Aberdeen underscore the importance of maintaining discipline and adherence to regulations during international competitions. Despite the lack of major consequences in terms of advancement, such incidents detract from the integrity and sportsmanship of the game. Moving forward, it is imperative for clubs to uphold the values of fair play and respect for opponents, officials, and the overall spirit of the competition.

 

 

Surreal’… Ross County player shares what Joe Hart did after Celtic beat them at the weekend


Celtic fans have known since Joe Hart signed for the club that he is a class act. The professionalism and leadership he has brought have helped deliver success to the club over the past two and a half seasons.

The veteran keeper has the respect of his peers, coaching staff and the manager for the way he conducts himself on the pitch.

 

But it was what Hart did off it that impressed Ross County’s keeper George Wickens. The youngster played a blinder at Celtic Park with a range of impressive saves and two consecutive penalty stops from Luis Palma.

And here he reveals the touch of class from Hart after the final whistle that has earned the Celtic goalie more respect from his opposite number one.

Wickens said [The Press and Journal print edition page 50], “I tried not to think about it too much at the start of the game.

“But growing up he was sort of my idol in terms of watching him for England. I watched a number of YouTube clips on him, trying to base quite a lot of my game off him.

“To share the same pitch as him was a bit surreal. It probably hasn’t sunk in yet, but I managed to get his shirt at the end of the game which was nice.

“He was very supportive. We are at the same agency so he is aware of my situation and just told me to come up here and show what I can do. There were some positive words from him, which I really appreciated. It’s a good start.”

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Photo by Massimo Insabato/Archivio Massimo Insabato/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images
Clearly, meeting his idol has left a mark on young Wickens and it seems he in turn has earned the respect of Hart after his Parkhead display.

With his contract running out at the end of the season, Celtic will need to either offer him a new deal or look at replacing Hart at some time or another.

But one thing that cannot be denied is that when the time comes for Hart to leave Celtic, his presence will not only be missed by his teammates but also Scottish football as a whole.

In other news, ‘Major signings’… Celtic given exciting transfer update before deadline day

 

 

BLOWING NEWS: Even when playing for Rangers” – Youngster says Celtic is his ‘dream’ club, could be set for tug-of-war over choice at national level

Although 16-year-old Robert Rachwal is still a member of the club’s youth teams,

his name may not signify much to Celtic supporters right now.

However, given that he has previously played for Rangers,

the club’s bitter rivals,

“Even when playing for Rangers” – Youngster says Celtic is his ‘dream’ club, could be set for tug-of-war over choice at national level


he could be someone to watch in the future on both the club and international stages. The Polish-born midfielder, who is thrilled to be at Celtic Park after leaving the team that Philippe Clement now manages, is a target for the Scottish FA.

They aim to capitalize on the fact that the child has been residing in the UK since he was six months old, as disclosed when Prezglad Sportowy profiles Rachwal on Monday,

looking back at the blend of Rangers and Celtic that characterized his formative football years.

In 2005, Rachwal’s mother returned to Poland to give birth to Robert, and the family relocated to Scotland.

He and his father “went to Celtic matches together and played in a nearby park in the evenings,”

and finally they “every Sunday at the club’s center in Lennoxtown” attended the club’s training sessions,

so when they returned, there was little doubt in his mind that Celtic was the family’s side.

Despite this, Rachwal made his debut at the Rangers academy thanks to the assistance of Ross Lyon,

the current captain of Clyde FC, who saw Rachwal’s potential as a teenager and told his grandfather,

Brian Adams.
“Suddenly an hour later, a Rangers scout appeared on the pitch,” his father said to Przeglad Sportowy.

Although my son wasn’t old enough to enroll in the academy, he piqued his curiosity.

At that point, Adams intervened and made an effort to persuade him to ignore Robert’s advanced age.

That was its origin. Rachwal played for the Scotland youngsters Club, where Celtic noticed him,

and joined Rangers’ Under-8s, which included youngsters two years older than him.

After that, he relocated there.

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Celtic superstar sets the striker target’s price as Rangers prepare for late January following a devastating injury blow.

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Celtic superstar sets the striker target’s price as Rangers prepare for late January following a devastating injury blow.

 

 

Make a huge difference’… Pat Nevin says signing 28-year-old striker would help Celtic win the league

The league title race is as close now as it has been over the past three seasons as Celtic’s stuttering form has allowed Rangers to claw back an eight-point lead at the top of the table.

Whether the Celtic fans like to admit it or not (and I don’t) there is a title challenge on and it’s more to do with Brendan Rodgers‘ side’s poor form than anything else.

With a £60m pot of gold awaiting the winners of the Scottish Premiership through automatic qualification to the Champions League, the stakes on this season’s title have never been higher.

And with Rangers breathing down their necks, Celtic will have to start upping the ante in terms of performances and goals scored.

And Pat Nevin reckons that if Celtic did one piece of business in this January window, it could swing the pendulum in their favour and keep the Championship trophy inside the Celtic Park trophy cabinet.

Nevin said [Scottish Football Podcast], “I’ll go 55-45 in Celtic’s favour in terms of percentage (of winning the league).

“But here’s the caveat – it depends on what happens over the next four or five days in terms of forwards, and whether Rangers go and get another.

“A lot of people have mentioned Shankland. If you stuck him up front for Rangers right now, that changes it. If you put Shankland up front for Celtic, it would change it even more in their favour.

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“What they do over the next few days in terms of a striker will make a huge difference.”

I’ve stated here on many occasions that I don’t believe that Shankland is the striker to take Celtic forward in terms of Europe.

Celtic FC v Heart of Midlothian – Cinch Scottish Premiership
Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
However, as a striker in the SPFL, the Hearts man has proven over the past two seasons that he has a keen eye for goals.

With 19 to his name already this season, Shankland leads the goalscoring charts in the SPFL. The Scotland international also hit 28 goals in 47 games last season as well. Just imagine what he could do to domestic defences in a team like Celtic. [Transfermarkt]

Predicted to cost around the £3m mark, Celtic would do well to get Shankland in to help win the title and guarantee £60m worth of Champions League cash.

In other news; ‘Major signings’… Celtic given exciting transfer update before deadline day.

Latest Celtic transfer news on Sydney van Hooijdonk, Bojan Miovski and Mikey Johnston

It’s been a quiet window for the Scottish champions but Hoops fans will be hoping it bursts into life this week

Sydney van Hooijdonk (middle) and dad Pierre van Hooijdonk (right)
Sydney van Hooijdonk (middle) and dad Pierre van Hooijdonk (right)

Celtic fans are becoming increasingly anxious by the day as the clock ticks towards the transfer deadline.

Nicolas Kuhn remains the Hoops’ only January arrival after the German winger’s £3million move from Rapid Vienna. Yet two priority positions remain neglected as the search for a new left-back and striker continues. Brendan Rodgers has made it clear that he only wants ready-made players who will add “quality” to his first-team but as things stand, Celts have failed to deliver the signings that the manager and supporters crave.

Rodgers admitted after yesterday’s gritty 1-0 win over Ross County that the champions are looking to strengthen various areas and the Northern Irishman insisted he was hopeful that new faces would be in the door by the time the window shuts on Thursday at 11:30pm.

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He said: “There are a number of areas we’re looking to improve on. Hopefully there’s movement, that’s the plan. The hope is we can get that player in who can help our level and let us develop.”

One signing that would appease the club’s frustrated fanbase is Dutch striker Sydney van Hooijdonk.

The son of ex-Parkhead hero Pierre is out of favour at Bologna having made just 11 appearances all season. That’s despite notching 16 goals on loan with Eredivisie outfit Heerenveen last season.

The 23-year-old was left out of last night’s 2-2 draw away to AC Milan and his absence set tongues wagging in the east end of Glasgow, with a TNT Sports commentator claiming: “Sydney van Hooijdonk is the absent man upfront, not even in the squad, with an apparent move to Celtic on the cards.”

However, Bolgona boss Thiago Motta put the rumours to bed by later revealing that the frontman had been suffering from the flu. But the Brazilian refused to rule out a January exit for Van Hooijdonk over the coming days, adding: “We’ll see if in the end he stays here or not, the important thing is that he always trains to the maximum.”

If Van Hooijdonk isn’t the answer, then John Hartson reckons his former club should turn their attention to Aberdeen hotshot Bojan Miovski.

The North Macedonian has banged in 17 goals for the struggling Dons this season and his prolific form has caught the attention of Celts, Southampton and other European clubs. And Parkhead legend Hartson has named the price that he believes could tempt the Pittodrie club into doing business this month.

In terms of outgoings, Football Scotland understands West Brom are keen on a loan deal for Mikey Johnston but are awaiting the green light from Celtic.

The 24-year-old winger has struggled to establish himself at Celtic Park due to a luckless injury record and lack of consistent form.

The Baggies are keen to take him down the road for the remainder of the season and a deal could be agreed before Thursday.

The Premiership leaders are also looking to offload Ben Siegrist, Yuki Kobayashi, Alexandro Bernabei and James McCarthy before the window closes, while summer signings Marco Tilio and Gustaf Lagerbielke could be shipped out on loan.

The latter is understood to have interest from Italy, with Serie A outfit Genoa seeking a deal for the Sweden international.

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Lawrence Shankland told he could take the ‘last step’ of his career and secure a transfer to Celtic

Stephen McGinn thinks Brendan Rodgers still needs to bring in another striker at Celtic before the January transfer window slams shut.

Celtic have already added to the forward line this month after winger Nicolas Kuhn joined from Rapid Vienna – he was pitchside for the 5-0 win over Buckie Thistle on Sunday in the Scottish Cup.

But the name of Lawrence Shankland continues to be thrown about and Stephen McGinn thinks he can take the ‘final step’ of his career by joining Celtic, as he told Go Radio.

The 28-year-old is a wanted man, which shouldn’t be a surprise because he is playing the best football of his career at Tynecastle this season.

Donning the captain’s armband at Hearts, he has ripped it up by scoring 18 goals in all competitions, including 13 from 21 Premiership matches.


Whilst Kyogo Furuhashi is the undisputed king, as he proved once again on derby day, question marks remain behind the Japan star.

That’s why Stephen McGinn backed the idea of Lawrence Shankland making a move to Parkhead.

Will Celtic sign a striker in January?
“I don’t see why not (Celtic go in for Shankland),” said McGinn. “Celtic need another striker.

 

Bojan Miovski touted for Celtic transfer as John Hartson names fee that would be ‘good business’ for Aberdeen striker

 

The former Hoops hero reckons the Macedonian would be a good signining

Former Celtic striker hero John Hartson values Aberdeen marksman Bojan Miovski at around the £4million mark and reckons that would be “good business” for his old club as he urged them to make the signings that will tip the title race in their favour in the second half of the season.

The Welshman believes the Hoops board should deliver the quality Brendan Rodgers has asked for in the January transfer window with Hartson predicting a Scottish Premiership challenge from a Rangers side revitalised under Philippe Clement.

Miovski was signed for a bargain £535,000 from MTK Budapest 18 months ago and has been a revelation in Scotland.

The 24-year-old Macedonian international has been touted for both Celtic and Rangers and Hartson believes he could be a shrewd acquisition for the Hoops. He told the Sunday Post: “I’ve seen Bojan Miovski a few times and I really like the look of him. I think he’d do well at Celtic.

He has been a regular goalscorer for Aberdeen and knows what it takes at this level and for his country, Macedonia. Bojan has a nice first touch, holds the ball up well and brings others into play. He also powers towards goal when the time is right and causes defenders all sorts of problems.

Aberdeen’s Bojan Miovski celebrates

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“In terms of a transfer fee, different numbers have been mentioned, from £3million to £6m. The bottom line is that Aberdeen will have their value and any interested club will know what they think he’s worth. Personally, I’d have him in the bracket between £3.5m and £4m. That would be good business. Kyogo Furuhashi is outstanding and as long as he stays fit then we’ll be fine. But there is a wee niggle that we should still bring someone in for the forward area

“We are now in the final few days and all eyes are on Celtic. So far, Nicolas Kuhn has been signed from Rapid Vienna and he looks to have the makings of a good player. Brendan Rodgers has made it clear he wants to bring in three or four players of really good quality.

“That’s what the manager has identified and he will expect that to happen between this window and the summer window. He might actually need more than that if one or two of the big hitters are sold.

Celtic’s Nicolas Kuhn is substituted on for his debut during a cinch Premiership match between Celtic and Ross County at Celtic Park, on January 27, 2024, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group)
“Overall, if the squad stays intact for the next five months I think Celtic can win the league again. However, I’m not taking that for granted. I think there will be a challenge from Rangers and my former club cannot show them a glimmer of hope. Celtic is the team to stop. But there is room for improvement. You must never rest on your laurels. That’s why I’d like to see two more signings arrive in the next week.”

 

 

‘I’ve no idea why’… Andy Walker is baffled that Celtic haven’t offered a new contract to 25-year-old player

 

One thing that Celtic must be praised for is their work in tying their best players down on new extended contracts.

With players like Kyogo Furuhashi, Daizen Maeda, Matt O’Riley and now, Cameron Carter-Vickers all on long-term deals, the club have done excellent work in ensuring that they have protected the first team over the past few months.

But there is one player that former Celtic striker, Andy Walker, believes the Hoops must deal in and he admits that he is baffled that Celtic have not yet done a deal.

Walker said [The Go Radio Football Show], “They will keep players like O’Riley and other important players like Cameron Carter-Vickers who you want to be back fit because he obviously makes the team a lot better.

“But people like Liam Scales, who I think it’s the easiest thing to extend his contract. It hasn’t happened yet. I’ve no idea why.

“I mean, I’m sure he wants to stay. I’m sure he wants to flourish. I’m sure he wants to play in a winning team and the transformation that he has made in the last number of months as a Celtic player.

“Not just a guy who’s filled in for someone at centre back. This guy has been really consistent. And I thought it might have been the easiest thing to do to extend his contract and give a bit of good news to the Celtic support.”

Liam Scales’ story at Celtic this season is nothing short of remarkable. Looking likely to leave the club last summer, a defensive injury crisis meant that the Irishman was called upon to fill a gap and he has shone at every level.

 

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Celtic FC v Heart of Midlothian – Cinch Scottish Premiership
Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
Looking comfortable in the Champions League and the SPFL, Scales is now a full international after getting his first cap for the Republic of Ireland last October.

Scales has already admitted publicly that he would love to stay at Celtic and I believe he would jump at the chance to stay at the club.

All Celtic need to do is offer a contract and he will stay at the club. With his impressive form and the fact his deal expires at the end of next season, it seems like a no-brainer for Celtic to do the right thing and get him signed up for another few years.

In other news, Michael Stewart admits he’s ‘surprised’ Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is still picking 22-year-old

 

 

Deal Done: Celtic finally won the race by signing an incredible star player worth £87Million…….

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Jonathon Moar

But after a spectacular career rival, this former Parkhead striker could be about to achieve his European dream.

Celtic made a splash in the transfer market in the lead up to the 2019/20 season, landing Christopher Jullien for £7million.

The likes of Fraser Forster, Greg Taylor and Jeremie Frimpong all arrived too as the Hoops went on to secure a ninth straight league title.

Not all of the transfer business worked out, however.

It was also that season that saw the arrival of the likes of Boli Bolingoli, Patryk Klimala and Ismaila Soro.

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And there was also the signing of a young Irish striker from Southampton who had just starred for the Republic of Ireland at the Uefa U-19 European Championships.

Jonathan Afolabi was snapped-up from the then-Premier League outfit on a free transfer, with the 19-year old thrilled to link-up with the Scottish champions.

But three years later, he left Celtic having failed to make a single first team appearance.

Instead, his time in Scottish football was largely spent out on loan, with spells in the Championship with Dunfermline, Dundee and Ayr as well as a stint in League One at Airdrieonians.

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At Dens Park, he helped fire the Dee to promotion with crucial strikes in their play-off run.

Afolabi was released by the Hoops in the summer of 2022 when his contract expired.

Speaking earlier this year, he admitted things could’ve worked out differently and took his share of the blame for it not happening for him in Glasgow.

He said: “After two years I think I knew I wasn’t going to make the first team, I had planned to get into the first team, that’s why I went there but there are very high expectations at a club like Celtic, they expect to win every game and you need to be at the top of your level to even have a sniff.


“I read that Celtic was bad for a lot of young Irish players, us not breaking through but there are two sides to it, if the players don’t perform, they have no reason to put you into the first team. We had different pathways and we’re making our way now in different ways.

“I take responsibility for stuff I could have done better, been more professional, I didn’t do anything wrong as such but there were steps I needed to take to improve, if I had taken all of my opportunities it could have been a different story for me at Celtic, you have to be ready when it happens.

“I can’t say it was three wasted years, I learned the levels you need to be at, how professional you need to be, what hard work you need to put that Celtic shirt.”

After his Parkhead release, Afolabi decided to head back to Ireland and he hasn’t looked back.

 


Moving back to his home city Dublin, he signed for League of Ireland Premier Division outfit Bohemians.

After a handful of appearances towards the end of the 2022 season, he’s been outstanding in 2023.

Afolabi found a prolific scoring streak and fired 20 goals in 40 matches across all competitions in the campaign just gone.

His stunning revival and incredible form saw him finish the league’s joint-top scorer with 15 goals and earned him a spot in the team of the year.

Afolabi also netted in the FAI Cup Final in front of a record-breaking crowd at the Aviva Stadium, but ended up on the losing side against Jon Daly’s St Patrick’s Athletic.

He even earned his first international call-up in September this year although didn’t make his debut.

It’s been a fantastic career turnaround for Afolabi and he’s attracting plenty of transfer interest.

And he could be headed for the top flight of a major European league.

According to the Irish Independent, Afolabi is the subject of a six-figure offer from Belgian top tier side KV Kortrijk.

It’s claimed they’ve bid around £175,000 for Afolabi, but they aren’t the only club to have made an offer.

While the report claims two other Belgian clubs are also monitoring the in-form frontman, Carlisle United are also said to have launched a bid for him.

The English League One strugglers have just been taken over by American investors, who have targeted getting the club up the divisions.

A move to Kortrijk would see Afolabi link up with a couple of familiar names to Scottish football fans.

Former Rangers winger Sheyi Ojo is on loan there from Cardiff City, while ex-Kilmarnock loanee Ryan Alebiosu is at the club too.

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They could do with a boost as they currently sit rock-bottom of the Belgian Pro League.

 

 

Celtic Transfer Saga Shrouded in Mystery: John Hartson Sounds Alarm as Kyogo Furuhashi Faces Backlash Despite Victory over Ross County!

Celtic got the job done against Ross County, but it wasn’t convincing, nor eye-catching from the team.

If you add in the lack of transfer business this month, then it just frustrates the Celtic fans even further.

John Hartson spoke about Brendan Rodgers’ side lacking that attacking bite and how the club’s call to sell Giorgos Giakoumakis last January was a ‘mystery’, as he posted on Twitter.

Whilst Kyogo Furuhashi has delivered in the big games for Celtic this season, it’s fair to say that he just hasn’t been at his best throughout the campaign.

That’s due to the Japan star making his usual attacking runs, but the ball is not being fed to him quickly enough.

John Hartson thinks Kyogo Furuhashi is ‘copping a bit of flack’ after the win over Ross County, with only eight goals to his name from 23 Scottish Premiership matches.

Given the levels he has set, then the drop-off, even if it’s small, is going to be obvious to all.

Kyogo Furuhashi and Giorgos Giakoumakis
“Think Celtic need more attacking prowess .. a different type to Kyogo. When Kyogo not scoring we need a decent back up.. totally dominant in the game.. ide like to see 2/3 more players arrive.. 3pts move on,” said Hartson.

“Kyogo copping a bit of flack.. but his goals per games is ridiculous.. that’s my point he’s not going to sustain that ratio so Celtic need a Forward that is capable of coming into the side and can deliver when needed. Selling GG was mystery …”

Think Celtic need more attacking prowess .. a different type to Kyogo. When Kyogo not scoring we need a decent back up.. totally dominant in the game.. ide like to see 2/3 more players arrive.. 3pts move on🍀

— John Hartson (@JohnHartson10) January 27, 2024

Kyogo copping a bit of flack.. but his goals per games is ridiculous.. that’s my point he’s not going to sustain that ratio so Celtic need a Forward that is capable of coming into the side and can deliver when needed. Selling GG was mystery ..

— John Hartson (@JohnHartson10) January 27, 2024

Celtic not at their best
The only big plus is that the team is still sitting on top and given that it has been an indifferent season, then you wonder how.

But it proves that when the buttons have been pushed, the team have been there and proved themselves.

Yes, there needs to be some sort of lift from the transfer market, the arrival of a few more players and the mood will be a lot more positive.

But, as of this moment, there is a sense of frustration because everything really isn’t hitting the levels fans expected they would.

 

 

 

Saturday Night Sydney van Hooijdonk Celtic Update

Celtic Monitoring Sydney van Hooijdonk as Transfer Window Nears Close

As the transfer window hurtles towards its final days, whispers of Celtic’s interest in Bologna’s Sydney van Hooijdonk have become more pronounced.

It seems the Bhoys are keen on bolstering their attacking options. Yet, as the clock ticks, no formal move has been made for the 23-year-old striker.


Sky Sports’ Anthony Joseph recently shed light on this evolving story, confirming Celtic’s interest in van Hooijdonk. While the club’s intent is clear, their approach remains cautious. With only a handful of days left before the window shuts, the tension is palpable among the supporters.

Sydney, son of former Celtic striker Pierre van Hooijdonk, is no stranger to the lore of the Hoops. His father’s time at the club during the 90s is well remembered, adding an intriguing narrative to this potential transfer. Sydney’s desire to leave Bologna this month presents a tantalising opportunity for Celtic to tap into this particular lineage.

However, the situation is still fluid. Despite the growing need for a striker to reinforce the squad, Celtic’s strategy appears to be one of careful deliberation rather than hurried action.

As the days dwindle, the question remains: will Celtic seize the opportunity to bring Sydney van Hooijdonk into the fold? Or will the window close with not much else happening.

For now, all eyes remain on Celtic. Fans are expectant and there is so much on the line.

 

 

 

 

CELTIC FC Celtics manager Brendan Rodgers slashes £200k off of a beautiful house as he attempts to find a buyer 

*Brendan Rodgers Cuts Price on Luxury Mansion Amidst Struggle to Find a Buyer**

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has reduced the asking price of his opulent Wilmslow mansion by £200,000, as efforts to sell the property face challenges. Acquired for £3.95 million in the summer of 2022, the property was initially listed at offers over £4.2 million last August.

**Property Overview:**
Situated in an exclusive street in Wilmslow, Cheshire, the luxurious residence boasts five bedrooms, a gym, landscaped gardens, a double garage, and a bar area.

Additionally, it is equipped with advanced features such as CCTV, underfloor heating, air conditioning in most bedrooms, electronically operated blinds, and ceiling speakers. Planning permission has been granted for the creation of ‘leisure facilities.’

**Reduced Asking Price:**
Despite the initial optimistic listing, Rodgers has faced difficulty securing a buyer, prompting a reduction in the asking price to £4 million. This strategic move aims to enhance the property’s market appeal and expedite its sale.

**Agent’s Description:**
Sofia Da Silva, the property agent, emphasizes the exceptional quality of the residence, describing it as “immaculately presented to a very high specification” and a “double gable-fronted contemporary residence finished to an uncompromising standard.” The property’s location on one of Wilmslow’s prestigious roads adds to its allure.

**Comparison with Sir Alex Ferguson’s Sale:**
The context of Rodgers’ mansion sale is further highlighted by the fact that legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson put his home on the same street up for sale for £3.5 million in November. The former Manchester United manager’s decision followed the death of his wife Cathy.

**Rodgers’ Previous Home Incident:**
The article briefly recalls an unsettling incident from 2019 when Rodgers was the victim of a robbery at his Bearsden home near Glasgow. Despite not being present during the incident, his family had to take refuge in a bathroom as robbers stormed in and stole medals.

**Rodgers’ Football Achievements:**
Rodgers’ successful managerial career, including winning back-to-back trebles in his initial spell with Celtic, is touched upon. His achievements include seven trophies before departing for Leicester in 2019, where he led the club to the UEFA Europa League and the FA Cup.

**Return to Celtic:**
After a stint at Leicester, Rodgers returned to Celtic, replacing Ange Postecoglou. The managerial transition marked his re-engagement with the club where he had previously enjoyed considerable success.

 

CELTIC manager Brendan Rodgers has slashed £200,000 off the price of his luxury English mansion as he bids to offload it.

The Parkhead boss, 51, bought the upmarket property in an exclusive street in Wilmslow, Cheshire, for £3.95m in the summer of 2022. He put the house up for sale for offers over £4.2m last August but after struggling to find a buyer has reduced the asking price to £4m

**Conclusion:**
The evolving narrative of Brendan Rodgers’ attempt to sell his Wilmslow mansion unfolds against the backdrop of a competitive real estate market and the broader context of his football career. The reduced asking price signals his commitment to facilitating the sale while maintaining the property’s prestige.

Stephen Welsh acknowledges that dealing with the 24-year-old during Celtic training has been a “nightmare.”

Stephen Welsh’s Resilience and Positive Outlook

Injury Setback and Contract Extension
Celtic central defender Stephen Welsh has navigated a challenging season marked by injury setbacks.

Despite a promising contract extension until 2027 from manager Brendan Rodgers in the summer, Welsh faced a setback with a serious ankle injury at Lennoxtown just a day after signing the new deal.

Return to Form
After months of rehabilitation with Celtic’s medical staff, Welsh marked his return in a Champions League win against Feyenoord, delivering a strong 75-minute performance that signaled a positive turnaround.

His subsequent appearances against Dundee, Rangers, and in the Scottish Cup victory over Buckie Thistle have contributed to rebuilding his confidence.

Intense Training and New Addition
Welsh, actively involved in Celtic’s intense first-team training, has witnessed the arrival of new signing Nicolas Kuhn from Rapid Vienna for £3 million.

As the only signing of the current transfer window, Kuhn is yet to make his Celtic debut but is anticipated to be in contention for the upcoming league fixture against Ross County.

Welsh’s Praise for Nicolas Kuhn
Welsh speaks highly of Kuhn, describing him as a ‘nightmare’ to train against due to his impressive sharpness and speed.

The 24-year-old winger has brought a positive dynamic to Celtic’s training sessions, showcasing a relentless attacking mindset and a knack for beating defenders.

While acknowledging Kuhn’s rapid pace, Welsh playfully emphasizes that the title of the fastest in the team still belongs to Daizen Maeda, the Japanese flying machine.

Expectations for Kuhn
Welsh expresses excitement about seeing Kuhn in action and anticipates the winger’s impact on Celtic’s performances in the upcoming fixtures and throughout the season. Kuhn’s attributes, including his finishing ability and quickness, add an exciting dimension to Celtic’s attacking options, creating optimism among players and fans alike.

Fans want an Asian Cup while Reo Hatate rediscovers the best of the Celtics with a mind-blowing masterclass in Japan

Reo Hatate’s Asian Cup Triumph and Celtic’s Anticipation

A Stellar Showcase on the International Stage
Reo Hatate’s brilliance on the international stage has captivated Japanese fans, leaving them eager for more following his impressive first start for the Land of the Rising Sun in the Asian Cup. As Celtic awaits his return to Scotland, Hatate’s standout performance in a 3-1 victory over Indonesia has not only pleased fans but also earned Japan a coveted spot in the knockout rounds.

Brendan Rodgers’ Optimism
Brendan Rodgers, expressing his desire to have Hatate available for current Celtic selection, must take solace in the fact that the midfielder delivered a starring show on the Asian Cup business. The victory, which also featured Daizen Maeda as a second-half substitute, highlights Hatate’s impact on the international stage.

Statistical Brilliance and Fan Admiration
Despite being a regular in Hajime Moriyasu’s squads, Hatate’s statistics in the Indonesia game showcased his prowess. With a towering passing completion rate, a big chance created, and impressive contributions in ground duels and aerial battles, Hatate’s performance left onlooking supporters in awe. Fans took to social media, with one simply stating, “Reo Hatate, a really good player,” while others praised his performance alongside fellow player Keito Nakamura.

Tactical Insights and Positive Reactions
The strategic aspect of Hatate’s substitution drew positive reactions from fans. Supporters expressed satisfaction with the timing of Hatate’s substitution, with one fan mentioning that his inclusion early on indicates positive thoughts for the upcoming knockout stages. Another fan highlighted the impact of Hatate’s presence, noting that his contribution often takes the team out of trouble.

Fond Memories and Versatility Acknowledged
Fans reminisced about Hatate’s time in the J League, citing their admiration for his play since his days in Kawasaki. Recognition of Hatate’s ability to create decisive opportunities from any position further emphasized his versatility and value on the field.

Celtic’s Optimism and Hatate’s Resurgence

Promising Signs for Celtic
As Hatate showcases his prowess in the Middle-Eastern tournament, Celtic supporters have reasons to be optimistic. Despite facing an injury setback in the first half of the Premiership season, Hatate appears to be kicking back into top gear, raising hopes for his impactful return to the Celtic lineup.

In conclusion, Reo Hatate’s recent accomplishments in the Asian Cup not only leave a lasting impression on Japanese fans but also build anticipation for his return to Celtic, where his dynamic playstyle and statistical brilliance are eagerly awaited.

‘Celtic fans would go mental’: Barry Ferguson responds to transfer speculation involving Bhoys star

Barry Ferguson has made it clear that Celtic fans would ‘go honestly mental’ if the membership offered sought-after celebrity Matt O’Riley throughout the January transfer window.

Sources have informed HITC Football that a quantity of Premier League golf equipment Crystal Palace, Everton, Fulham, West Ham United and Wolves are weighing up the choice to buy the midfielder.

Matt O’Riley has been one of the fine players in the Scottish Premiership this season, scoring ten desires and imparting seven assists, with Brendan Rodgers’ aspect sitting pinnacle of the table.

The 23-year-old did signal a new contract at the begin of the campaign, so from that aspect, Celtic have his cost intact and insurance.

But what you can’t accommodate for, in particular for teams in Scotland, is these in England’s top-flight throwing hard-to-turn-down cash at players.

And at the same time as Barry Ferguson expects Matt O’Riley to go away Parkhead one day, he made it clear that it would cause chaos if that name to be given an provide took place this month, as he told Go Radio.

Premier League interest in Matt O’Riley

“Honestly, I would be clearly shocked if Celtic let him go,” stated Ferguson. “He is some distance too necessary a player.

“He has been one of the great gamers this season. I think, at some stage, he will go. There’s no doubt in my thought about that. (But now) I can’t see it happening.

“I suppose the Celtic followers would go certainly mental if he was once allowed to go in this window.”

 

Matt O’Riley a Premier League player in the making

It has been a season of massive strides for the playmaker and one that signals why he is such a sought-after figure.

Just appear at O’Riley’s performances in the Champions League, three assists in six fits for a group that completed bottom of their group.

Anything correct that came from Celtic in Europe was by means of the boot of O’Riley.

You would think about those performances similarly proved to the interested events that O’Riley is worth pushing for.

‘Something isn’t right’: Peter Grant is concerned about Brendan Rodgers’ statements on Celtic star

Celtic’s rising star, Rocco Vata, marked a significant milestone by scoring his first goal for the club in Sunday’s Scottish Cup match against Buckie Thistle. The 18-year-old’s memorable moment, however, is accompanied by speculation regarding his future at Celtic amid reported interest from Italy.

Peter Grant, recognizing Vata’s potential, expressed concern over Brendan Rodgers’ recent comments suggesting that “something isn’t right” with the young player. Despite Rodgers praising Vata for his goal-scoring performance, Grant believes the manager hinted that factors beyond ability may be influencing the situation.

While fans hope for Vata to sign a new contract and continue developing at Celtic, Grant emphasizes that Rodgers, who closely observes the player’s progress at Lennoxtown, is the ultimate judge of his suitability for the team. The manager’s insights into Vata’s professionalism and off-pitch aspects have raised questions about the player’s future at the club.

Grant acknowledges that from a distance, fans can express their opinions and optimism about Vata’s potential. However, he underscores the importance of Rodgers’ assessment, acknowledging the manager’s role as the one closely monitoring the player week in and week out.

As the speculation swirls, Vata remains a Celtic player, and his recent goal-scoring performance serves as a testament to his capabilities. The upcoming match against Ross County provides another opportunity for Vata to prove his worth, whether it be through starting or earning more minutes from the bench based on his performance and contributions on the field. The uncertainties surrounding his future make it an intriguing storyline for both fans and those closely following Celtic’s developments.

Mark Nawrocki breaks Celtic quiet on sideline suffering, insisting he never doubted the decision for transfer

Maik Nawrocki, despite a challenging start to his Celtic career due to a serious hamstring injury, remains resolute in his decision to join the club and is eager to progress in hoops. The 22-year-old Polish defender endured over four months without playing but never doubted his move to Glasgow. He expressed contentment with his decision, emphasizing his belief that he fits well into the team and was confident that he would eventually return to playing.

Nawrocki acknowledged that the injury was unforeseen, but he used his time of absence positively, focusing on the chance he would get in the future. While dealing with the injury, he had support from family and friends and found solace in focusing on football during moments of solitude.

Reflecting on his injury sustained on an artificial surface at Kilmarnock, Nawrocki didn’t criticize the pitch and emphasized that he would prefer to play on grass every week. He returned to fitness but faced challenges breaking into the starting lineup due to the form of other defenders and being ineligible for the Champions League squad.

Acknowledging the situation, Nawrocki had discussions with manager Brendan Rodgers and understood the need to be patient. He highlighted the importance of working hard in training and being prepared for the moment when he would return to the team. Despite criticisms and judgments during his absence, Nawrocki remained focused, blocking out external opinions.

With the determination to prove himself and more opportunities on the horizon, Nawrocki looks forward to contributing to Celtic’s success. He embraces the challenges, including the unpredictable Scottish weather, and remains grateful for the support of fans who want the best for the players and the club.

Maik Nawrocki

Maik Nawrocki shared his experience dealing with the injury, emphasizing that he tried not to dwell on it too much. Instead, he focused on the opportunity for future recovery, and ultimately everything unfolded as he anticipated. During his recovery period, Nawrocki had the support of his family and friends, and he acknowledged being alone at times, a situation he was familiar with from his previous club Legia in Warsaw.

Regarding the injury itself, sustained on the artificial surface at Kilmarnock during the Viaplay Cup, Nawrocki described it as a normal hamstring injury. He shot the ball and immediately felt the injury but was uncertain about its severity and the duration of his absence from play. Despite questions about the pitch conditions, Nawrocki chose not to criticize and acknowledged various factors contributing to the injury. He emphasized looking forward and not dwelling on the past, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to focus on football during his time of solitude.

 

Maik Nawrocki shared his perspective on his challenging start at Celtic, emphasizing that he never doubted his decision to join the club despite enduring a serious hamstring injury. The 22-year-old acknowledged the difficulty of being sidelined for over four months but expressed confidence in his ability to bounce back. Nawrocki credited the support he received from family and friends during his injury, highlighting that he used his time alone to focus on the chance for future recovery.

Regarding his injury sustained on the artificial surface at Kilmarnock during the Viaplay Cup, Nawrocki described it as a normal hamstring injury and refrained from criticizing the pitch conditions. He expressed a positive outlook, emphasizing his readiness to focus on the future rather than dwelling on the past.

Nawrocki acknowledged the obstacles he faced upon returning to fitness, with competition from Cameron Carter-Vickers and Liam Scales making it challenging to secure a spot in the starting lineup. He recognized the support of manager Brendan Rodgers during this period and explained his understanding of the situation, especially regarding Champions League eligibility.

Facing critics who questioned his abilities due to delayed inclusion in the lineup, Nawrocki emphasized the need for football players to block out external judgments. He expressed gratitude for the encouragement received from fans and supporters, emphasizing that he aims to do well for the club.

Looking ahead, Nawrocki is focused on getting more chances to impress at Lennoxtown and is determined to make the most of his opportunities. Despite the challenging weather conditions, he maintains a positive attitude and appreciates the support from fans.

‘A big loss’: Neil Lennon pleads for Celtic star to stay amid reports he may depart

 

Celtic’s recent signing of Nicolas Kuhn has ignited speculation among fans about potential departures from the squad, particularly among fringe players. The depth in attacking areas, coupled with Brendan Rodgers’ endorsement of the transfer, suggests that the team is gearing up for some significant changes.

One player who might be affected is 18-year-old Rocco Vata, capable of playing on the wings and in central positions. Despite his recent goal-scoring cameo in Celtic’s 5-0 victory over Buckie Thistle in the Scottish Cup, there are talks of his potential departure. Neil Lennon expressed a desire for Vata to stay but acknowledged the ongoing speculation, indicating that the player could secure a move to Italy.

Vata’s contract is set to expire in the summer, and with no signs of a new deal being inked, the situation seems uncertain. Neil Lennon highlighted Vata’s talent and the ‘big decision’ he faces regarding his future at Celtic. The manager praised Vata’s contribution against Buckie Thistle and emphasized the significance of the young player’s personal ambitions.

While acknowledging the plethora of options in the final third, Brendan Rodgers’ decision on Vata’s future will be crucial. The manager’s assessment, based on regular training observations, will guide the team’s direction. Despite the abundance of choices, Rodgers saw fit to strengthen the flanks with Kuhn’s addition this month, hinting at a long-term strategy.

The true impact of these decisions may unfold in the upcoming season, with the Champions League providing a significant platform for Celtic. From Vata’s perspective, Celtic, especially under Rodgers’ management, offers an ideal setting for development and growth, making it a crucial decision for the young player to make.

Horatiu Moldovan Celtic transfer “offer” is made public as the Romanian goalkeeper approaches the Atletico Madrid transfer

Atletico Madrid appears to have secured the services of Romanian international goalkeeper Horatiu Moldovan, leaving Celtic among the clubs reportedly thwarted in their pursuit. The 26-year-old shot-stopper is on the verge of undergoing a medical in the Spanish capital, with the La Liga giants offering a four-and-a-half-season contract and an annual salary of 800,000 euros.

Celtic, along with FC Basel, Ludogorets Razgrad, Betis Sevilla, and others, had expressed interest in Moldovan, as revealed in a Romanian report. The termination clause in Moldovan’s contract with FC Rapid, valued at 800,000 euros, is expected to be paid by Atletico Madrid following the successful completion of the medical examination. Moldovan acknowledged the multiple discussions with various clubs but emphasized the irresistible appeal of Atletico Madrid, citing their determination as a decisive factor in his choice.

Speaking to the media at Bucharest airport, Moldovan expressed his excitement about the upcoming challenge, acknowledging the competition he will face, particularly against Jan Oblak, whom he considers the best goalkeeper in the world. Despite describing the move as a dream come true, Moldovan remained grounded, emphasizing the need to navigate the medical examination and recognizing the unpredictable nature of football.

In light of these developments, the goalkeeper position at Celtic, currently occupied by Joe Hart, has come under scrutiny. With Hart approaching 37 later in the year, there is speculation about Brendan Rodgers considering reinforcements. While Rodgers acknowledged Hart’s positive influence on the squad, he hinted at a desire to enhance the team further in upcoming transfer windows, reinforcing his commitment to improving the overall squad dynamics during his tenure at Celtic.

Nicolas Kuhn is a questionable transfer for Celtics, but Brendan Rodgers claims he is a top player and that the onus now rests with him – Chris Sutton

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

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

New Celtic Signing Nicolas Kuhn

There’s no conjecture in those words. The manager desires a certain trendy of player and, judging by means of his personal comments, that’s what he’s been given in the German. The Celtic boss made a name on quality. Not projects. I referred to last weekend I felt Kuhn used to be one for the venture list, but it is the opinion of Rodgers that counts when it comes to signings. So now it’s up to Kuhn to show him correct. Quite simply, Rodgers has to stand and fall by means of signings. Every manager does.

Kuhn is a vast attacking player and the place he suits into it all will be fascinating. The vibes are he performs off the proper coming internal and that door is huge open at the moment with Daizen Maeda at the Asian Cup. Liel Abada returned from injury just earlier than shutdown, however that lad has had lots to deal with this season and it’s challenging to recognize what he’ll produce on a regular basis. At £3million with masses of starts offevolved for Rapid Vienna before arriving, Kuhn has to be oven-ready and deliver massive shows from the minute he steps onto the park.

Rodgers wants 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 team of workers are essential to help whittle down the lists when a manager offers a description of the kind he desires from a certain position.

But, once recommended, it’s structured on Rodgers’ final judgment. That’s what will be beneath scrutiny here and that’s how it must be. Yes it things to a diploma how a good deal a club will spend. It’s stupid to propose otherwise, however the board works inside the mannequin and I have no qualms about it because Rodgers is aware of what it is. He says he’s comfortable to work inside it. So he’s got to get it right. I surely don’t apprehend fans screaming for big outlays when it’s been made flawlessly clear this is the club’s strategy. And, I’ll say it again, if it is performed properly, it can be vastly effective.

The activity this week that has emerged surrounding Cameron Carter-Vickers just bought me questioning about how high-quality Celtic can make it work. Evidence suggests the ones in the £2m-to-£3m bracket are volatile in the sense you may additionally end up with little in return.

But Matt O’Riley, Maeda and Reo Hatate are examples that it can work, though you need to be either extraordinarily smart or fortunate to get that three for a sum complete of about £4.5m, as Ange Postecoglou managed to do.

Hand on heart, do you certainly see Celtic getting much of their outlay lower back on Kwon Hyeok-kyu, who has just long gone on loan to St Mirren? You can in no way say never.

Stephen Robinson and Kwon

Kristoffer Ajer went to Brentford for a right few quid and he value much less than a million from Norway when Ronny Deila offered him. Rodgers despatched him out to Kilmarnock to analyze his alternate and received there, eventually. So maybe the cross to Paisley will have a comparable effect on Kwon and, at the equal time, that Ajer story tells you that Odin Thiago Holm would possibly flip out to be a desirable one in the end.

But Celtic also want performers for proper now. I know rate isn’t the solely barometer of a player’s potential as the market where you keep often dictates the figures. Put it this way, if Hatate or Maeda have been coming from the English Premier League with their genuine same profiles, do you think they should have been snared at J-League prices? Of path not. But there’s a balance and I can understand why fans would like to see just a little more spent on greater confirmed excellent to nearly warranty the win-win scenario.

The membership had no problems paying £9m for Odsonne Edouard because they knew, barring a disaster, they were now not going to lose money. In the end, they doubled their money when Crystal Palace stepped onto the scene. Celtic had to spend £6m to get Jota signed. Paying that little greater ended up netting them £25m when the Saudis got here calling. In the identical summer, Carter-Vickers price the equal £6m. If the English do come knocking in the summer, I’d say you are looking at every other £20m.

That’s surely what the fans favor to see. Chunky investments bringing even healthier returns. I’m fairly certain Carter-Vickers and O’Riley will remain until at least the summer, however they’ll go one day and their bumper transfer expenses when departing will just push the narrative of pay higher, sell higher. Fans just prefer ready-made players who can go straight into the aspect and make it better.

Kuhn has to fall into that bracket. He’s lower back towards the riskier quit of the scale if you are looking purely at switch fee, but it’s about the excellent and Rodgers says Kuhn has it. That’s the manager’s judgment. Not that of the board. So Rodgers has to have picked a correct one, and preserve discovering right ones, because the buck stops with him.

Celtic’s new goal is to prevail in the competition to sign Rodgers’ “excellent” forward

He’s hit the headlines recently due to his goalscoring exploits…

 

 

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has earmarked a couple of areas to make stronger before the close of the window and his side are now reportedly eager on an exciting player to bolster the Hoops’ Scottish Premiership title bid.

Celtic set for busy closing period of the window

Nicolas Kuhn has been the solely arrival for Celtic so far this window as Rodgers and the Hoops carefully plot their subsequent cross between now and the stop of the month.

Sky Sports News reporter Anthony Joseph has given some perception into the place the Hoops may additionally seem to be next in the switch market, declaring via social media platform X:

Celtic are now focussing efforts to bring in a LB & ST before the end of the transfer window.

Permanent deals would be preferable, but loan targets may be more achievable.

GK situation is also being assessed, but more likely to be addressed in the summer.

— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) January 17, 2024

Loan aims might also be the intention for Celtic as they evaluate now not only availability but also affordability. The Daily Record declare that several selections from the Premier League have been reviewed as Rodgers looks to furnish guide to Kyogo Furuhashi, who has grow to be the sole surviving forward at Parkhead for the next few weeks amid Oh Hyeon-gyu and Daizen Maeda’s involvement at the Asian Cup.

One acquainted identify that continues to be noted in the left-back function is Liverpool defender Owen Beck and he could cross north of the border once once more earlier than the cut-off date if Jurgen Klopp deems that he has gorgeous cowl in that function amid latest injury worries involving Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas.

Another choice has now come out of the blue that Celtic may want to look to goal to pork up their alternatives in attack, according to a clean report.

Celtic in race to signal Tommy Conway…

According to Football Insider, Celtic have emerged as suitors for Bristol City striker Tommy Conway and could be worried in a five-way tussle with Rangers, Nottingham Forest, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Brentford all in the race to land the Scotland Under-21 international.

Bristol City: Fourth round 🔜

West Ham: Out ❌

Tommy Conway did it again 👏#BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/3pGMuDXhnR

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) January 17, 2024

Over the final couple of weeks, the Taunton-born striker has boosted his developing reputation by means of scoring twice towards West Ham United as the Robins stepped forward in opposition to David Moyes’ aspect all through the week at Ashton Gate.

 

Labelled “excellent” by using former boss Nigel Pearson, the 21-year-old has notched eight desires in 22 appearances this marketing campaign despite missing seven weeks due to harm troubles (Conway statistics – Transfermarkt).

 

Celtic appear to be in the market to add a new striker before the window closes; however, it is unclear whether Conway would be an less expensive goal or if Bristol City would enable the rising megastar to leave in mid-season, making this one to watch.

Await IT: A move by Celtic could be blocked by red tape

CELTIC’S interest in a loan cross for Liverpool left-back Owen Beck could be scuppered by using purple tape.

The Welsh Under-21 defender was recalled to Anfield after spending the first 1/2 of the season at Dundee.

HBAgency
Brendan Rodgers has been impressed via Beck all through his stint in the Premiership and the youngster put in a stable overall performance in the champions’ 3-0 win on Tayside on Boxing Day.

Daizen Maeda spent a irritating sixty six minutes towards the tigerish back-four operator, as CQN‘s fit reporter referred to in his massive recreation summary. The Japanese international eventually made way for South Korean Yang Hyun-jun who did’t fare a whole lot better in opposition to his pacy, quick-tackling opponent.

 

CLOSE-UP VIEW…Owen Beck is helpless as Mikey Johnston whips in Celtic’s second purpose in the 3-0 win over Dundee at Dens Park on Boxing Day.

The Hoops are searching for cover for Greg Taylor in the No.3 slot with £3.75million Argentinian flop Alexandro Bernabei probable to be on his way.

Jurgen Klopp brought Beck returned to the Merseyside at the flip of the 12 months after being hit by means of a double blow to protective double-act Andy Robertson, the Scotland international skipper, and Greek back-up Kostas Tsimikas with each gamers suffering shoulder injuries.

Right-sided Joe Gomez has been forced to play in the unfamiliar role in latest games and the Liverpool boss may additionally now look to Beck to supply the answer.

An appearance by using the 21-year-old celebrity in the top side would give up any possibilities of the champions landing the defender as FIFA rules country no participant can play for three teams in the identical season.

Klopp’s facet still have two Premier League games to play before the end of this month’s window – towards Bournemouth on Sunday and Chelsea on January 31.

THE FINISHING TOUCH…Greg Taylor thumps in Celtic 1/3 and closing aim in the victory over St Mirren in Paisley to get 2024 off to a prevailing start.

They also have a Carabao Cup semi-final 2nd leg towards Fulham at Craven Cottage due on Wednesday and an English Cup-tie against Championship outfit Norwich City a week on Sunday.

As the Hoops wait to see how that state of affairs plays out, it has long past bloodless on the pronounced interest in Portuguese left-back Tiago Araujo, in accordance to the Daily Record.

Estoril are insisting on £4million for their participant and the Parkhead facet don’t appear willing to healthy that valuation.

The club have additionally held talks with FC Gwangju midfielder Jung Ho-yeon with the South Korean considered as a opportunity in this switch window.

Green Brigade appears on Iran state TV in a special documentary about Celtic ultras

The ultras have been featured on a information channel owned by way of the Iranian authorities after their Palestine support.

The Green Brigade have featured as a news bundle on an Iranian government-owned TV channel.

Parkhead chiefs have welcomes the ultras lower back into Celtic Park after firstly banning them for part of the season. They have shown their aid for Palestine at video games domestically and in the Champions League amid the ongoing warfare between Hamas and Israel in the Gaza region. It has attracted the attentions of Press TV, who have blanketed the crew on their Palestine Declassified programme.

Green Brigade hold up Palestine flags during a UEFA Champions League match between Celtic and Atletico Madrid (Image: SNS Group)

Former Labour MP Chris Williamson is a presenter on the programme. It is the solely agency legally in a position to transmit radio and TV declares in Iran, with the Celtic ultras front and centre of a video that additionally troubles a message of Parkhead support.

It is stated at the end of the broadcast by using reporter Amina Tayor: “The spirit of resistance is robust inside Celtic Park, as it is in Gaza. All energy to the Green Brigade.”

The video lasts three-and-a-half minutes, taking viewers thru a timeline of the Green Brigade’s Palestine assist courting again to 2006. It also important points Celtic’s roots in Ireland.

It is noted they did not “shrink from action” with banners unfurled in opposition to Kilmarnock that examine “victory to the resistance.” Press TV also claimed they lower back “triumphantly” to Parkhead against Livingston.

If Josh Doig’s Marseille transfer falls through, Celtic may try to sign the defender for £4.5 million

Former Hibernian left lower back Josh Doig had his move to Marseille crumple at the eleventh hour. The 6ft 2 defender used to be due to make the switch to Gattuso’s Ligue 1 aspect before Hellas Verona pulled the plug on the deal.

Doig, who was linked with Celtic closely throughout his spell at Hibernian, had been the situation to an agreed £4.5m fee. Although, with the player reportedly readying for a flight to the South of France, his club modified their minds.

It is predicted that Sassuolo will be a part of the race for the participant and are inclined to offer a greater surprising bundle for the Scottish defender’s services. However, with the £4.5m price genuinely around the asking charge for Doig, should Celtic make a move?

Olympique Marseille have reportedly made an offer of €5M for Josh Doig, Hellas Verona are holding out for €6M

The 21-year-old Scottish left back has made just 11 appearances in Serie A this season and a move looks imminent with Torino and Udinese also interested.… pic.twitter.com/IYlX1zyHqt

— Everything Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 (@AboutScotlandd) January 9, 2024

Doig would qualify as part of the club’s Scottish contingent for European purposes as properly as bringing height, pace and aggression to the returned line. It is no secret that the supervisor wants to go on Alexandro Bernabei and offer opposition to Greg Taylor.

Celtic have been linked with signing Owen Beck from Liverpool. The Welsh youngster spent the first 1/2 of the season at Dundee earlier than being recalled, where he impressed. Now, it stays to be considered whether Liverpool would let him depart both briefly or permanently.

Celtic have been searching to make stronger the left returned role for some time, you would even wonder if Verona would think about a money plus player swap with Bernabei heading the other way. The Argentine has an Italian passport and off-field issues have plagued his time at Celtic so far. It is possibly disappointing that we haven’t seen greater of him however both Ange and Brendan noticed him daily at training and determined to restrict his time in the first team.

Elsewhere, Celtic are expected to entire the signing of Nicolas Kuhn from Rapid Vienna today. The deal is expected to be round £3m with add-ons. Then, Brendan wishes a left returned and a striker before the window closes. There is additionally chatter of mortgage offers with the membership already planning their summer time business. The most essential thing is having the fine succesful of triumphing the league, which ensures qualification to the UCL Group Stages.

Nicolas Kuhn LANDS at Celtic, where he will join former Rangers player to complete his move from Rapid Vienna

The German is set to emerge as Brendan Rodgers’ first signing of the January transfer window.

CN Agency Agents Fabian Dingler (L) and ex-Rangers participant Christian Nerlinger land in Glasgow to finalise a pass for Nicolas Kuhn to Celtic

Nicolas Kuhn has touched down in Glasgow to put the closing touches to his cross to Celtic.

The Premiership champions have been in talks with Rapid Vienna over the former Ajax and Bayern Munich man. Brendan Rodgers has been keen to seal a deal for the 24-year-old and he looks set to get his way barring any final minute hiccups. Kuhn underwent a scientific in London before making his way north to put pen to paper with the Hoops.

They have agreed a £2.8million charge with Rapid to secure Kuhn, who is expected to signal a 4 and a half yr contract. He was once met at Glasgow airport by using Celtic officers before being whisked away to avoid the cameras complete the formalities at Celtic Park, the place he ought to be introduced as the club’s state-of-the-art addition later on Monday. Former Ibrox midfielder Christian Nerlinger is back in city with fellow consultant Fabian Dingler to get matters over the line.

 

Despite already having Luis Palma, Mikey Johnston, James Forrest and Yang at his disposal, Kuhn is being signed to improve the first group rather than pad the squad. Former Hearts famous person Thomas Flogel, who now manages in Austria with St Pollen II, reckons he’ll add something exclusive to Rodgers’ pool.

He told Record Sport: “Kuhn came from Germany and he is a absolutely gifted player, one of the high-quality players at Rapid Vienna this season. I be aware of they haven’t had the pleasant of seasons in the Austrian league however in my thinking he used to be one of their extra technical players.

“He is at his excellent when he gets one-on-one. He is a absolutely fast player and likes to take defenders and opponents on. He is a virtually talented and his tempo makes him certainly challenging to play towards and stop. When he is on his game he actually concerns defenders.”

New Celtic signing arrives quickly, Rangers are linked to a forward, Motherwell wants a Hearts outcast and other transfer rumors

Kuhn arrives in Glasgow to seal his go – but Scotland starlet faces wait for Verona exit

The nice of the Scottish switch stories as the transfer window continues to dominate headlines …

Kuhn arrives in Glasgow to seal Celtic deal

 

Celtic are expected to announce their first wintry weather signing imminently after Rapid Vienna forward Nicolas Kuhn arrived in Glasgow to entire formalities. The 23-year-old underwent a medical over the weekend and ought to make his debut for Celtic, barring any late unexpected hitches, when the membership starts offevolved its Scottish Cup defence towards Buckie Thistle on Sunday. Kuhn was noticed with his agent arriving at Glasgow Airport on Monday evening. The German is set to be the first of potentially 4 new signings at Celtic Park this month, with supervisor Brendan Rodgers understood to be eager on strengthening at goalkeeper and left-back, with probably another striker to follow Kuhn thru the door.

Josh Doig has been left in transfer limbo after Marseille pulled the plug on his move from Hellas Verona.

Josh Doig has been left in transfer limbo after Marseille pulled the plug on his go from Hellas Verona.

Marseille pull plug on Doig deal

Josh Doig’s transfer from Hellas Verona to Marseille has reportedly collapsed, with the Ligue 1 membership closing in on a deal for another left returned in Young Boys’ Ulisses Garcia. According to French media, Marseille have grown worn-out of negotiations with the Serie A outfit for the 21-year-old ex-Hibs man no matter agreeing personal terms, with Sassuolo now the favourites for Doig’s signature. The participant is believed to favor a pass away from Verona, where he has struggled for everyday game-time this season, and whilst Marseille are understood to prefer another left-back to compete with Garcia, they will no longer be pursuing Doig further. Hibs, who Doig to Verona in the summer time of 2022, are monitoring the situation intently given they have a 25 per cent sell-on clause.

Hibs now not taking Adryan on

Hibs have decided in opposition to offering a deal to Brazilian trialist Adryan. The 29-year-old playmaker joined up with Nick Montgomery’s crew all through their training camp in Dubai, but won’t be offered a deal. The Easter Road outfit have also been walking the rule over Leeds defender Kris Moore.

Andy Halliday, centre, has become a peripheral figure at Hearts this season.

Halliday desired by way of Motherwell

Motherwell have approached Hearts in an attempt to signal midfielder Andy Halliday. The 32-year-old has become a marginal parent underneath Steven Naismith at Tynecastle and has barely featured this season. The Steelmen need to make stronger their midfield following a season-ending damage to Callum Slattery and the Evening News reports that Hearts have given Halliday permission to talk with their fellow cinch Premiership outfit. Motherwell have already brought to their squad today, completing the signing of Celtic full-back Adam 1st viscount montgomery of alamein on loan for the relaxation of the season. The 21-year-old spent the first half of of the season with Fleetwood after until now loan spells with Aberdeen and St Johnstone.

Rangers linked with Langoni

Rangers have been credited with an activity in Boca Juniors ahead Luca Langoni. The 21-year-old has impressed for the Argentinian outfit and a move to Europe is expected. The Evening Standard claims that Rangers, as properly as Sevilla and Nice, have made processes to the Buenos Aires-based membership for Langoni. Rangers have already signed a ahead in this window after Fabio Silva joined on loan from Wolves.

Staggies land King

Derek Adams has persevered to reshape his Ross County squad by means of signing his former Morecambe participant Eli King. The 21-year-old joins County on loan from Cardiff. The Wales Under-21 international scored two goals in 24 appearances for Morecambe in the first half of the season and played 18 instances for Crewe in a mortgage spell closing term.

Celtic and the target have verbally agreed on personal terms

Rapid Vienna winger Nicolas Kuhn has verbally agreed phrases on a contract at Celtic beforehand of the club putting him via a medical, according to Sky Sports.

Brendan Rodgers is an admirer of the German winger and has bought a swap to Celtic Park to him this month.

Celtic now have a £3m switch in location with Rapid Vienna for Kuhn and the switch should go smoothly as the Bhoys have thrashed out private terms.

While Kuhn has but to signal a contract, he has verbally agreed the terms of it with Celtic and it will run for the subsequent four-and-a-half years.

Celtic are now anticipating to give Kuhn a medical in London on Monday.

Should the German come via the assessments besides an issue, he will then be predicted in Glasgow to finalise his pass to the Scottish champions.

Kuhn, 24, turned out for Rapid Vienna in the Europa Conference League qualifiers this season, whilst he has clocked regular sport time in the Austrian Bundesliga.

Losing Kuhn will be a large blow for Rapid Vienna, but Celtic will seem to be to see him make a rapid have an impact on in Scottish football.

Lethal Palma partner could be acquired by Rodgers in Celtic’s £3 million raid for the “big game player” – opinion

The Hoops are reportedly fascinated in a swoop for the Premiership marksman.

 

Celtic head coach Brendan Rodgers appears to be a busy man this month as the Northern Irishman appears to bolster his playing squad at some point of the January switch window.

FootballScotland reporter Mark Hendry recently claimed that the Hoops are hoping to add a winger, a left-back, and a centre-forward to the group before the quit of the month.

The window opened for commercial enterprise at the start of ultimate week and the Scottish giants are yet to make their first addition. However, they are closing in on a swoop for Rapid Wien ahead Nicolas Kuhn.

Hendry mentioned that the Bhoys ‘expect’ to land a deal for the German attacker, which would then go away the membership in need of a left-back and a striker.

 

Celtic are currently top of the Scottish Premiership table and ought to be searching to bolster their aspect to make sure that they impenetrable the title at the give up of the campaign.

One striker who ought to be brought in to add to Rodgers’ firepower is reported switch target Lawrence Shankland, who should be a lethal companion for Luis Palma at the pinnacle quit of the pitch.

Celtic transfer information – Lawrence Shankland

Journalist Graeme Bailey published at the begin of the month that Celtic are considering a swoop to sign the Scotland global in January.

The accompanying document from HITC, however, published that there is masses of opposition to secure his signature and it could, therefore, be a challenging one for the club to complete.

Everton, Sheffield United, Burnley, and Crystal Palace from the Premier League are said to be keen on the Hearts captain, at the same time as Championship facets Southampton, Middlesbrough, and Hull are also fascinated in him.

 

Football Insider claimed in December that Hearts are organized to demand a fee of at least £3m for their skipper, and it remains to be viewed whether or not Celtic are organized to pay that for the centre-forward.

The outlet introduced that Glasgow Rangers have been maintaining tabs on the Scottish wide variety nine however the £3m valuation appears set to park their interest till the summer, for monetary reasons.

If the Hoops are in a position to win the race for his signature over the coming weeks, Rodgers ought to land a deadly accomplice for Palma in the closing 0.33 due to his tremendous goalscoring best to go alongside with the winger’s exceptional creativity.

Luis Palma’s season in numbers

The Bhoys snapped the astounding forward up from Greek facet Aris all through the summer time transfer window beforehand of the 2023/24 campaign and he has been a revelation so far.

It has no longer taken him any time to adapt to Scottish football as the proficient whiz hit the floor going for walks at Parkhead and set up himself as a key player for the former Leicester manager.

He has been a respectable scoring option for Rodgers with 5 goals in 17 Premiership fits to date. Only David Turnbull (seven), Kyogo Furuhashi (eight), and Matt O’Riley (ten) have scored extra than him within the squad.

The 23-year-old ace also showcased his offensive abilities on the biggest stage with two goals in 4 starts in the Champions League in the past this term.

Palma’s biggest strength, however, has been his creativity. The right-footed magician has produced nine assists and 3.4 key passes per fit across his 17 league outings, to go along with 11 ‘big chances’ created for his teammates.

 

Meanwhile, no other Celtic player has racked up greater than seven assists or provided more than 2.6 key passes over recreation in the Premiership this season.

These records suggest that the Honduras international has been the club’s most-creative ahead so far this time period and the most likely player to unpick an opposition defence.

Therefore, Palma may want to be the best player for a new centre-forward to play alongside as he has the first-class to persistently create magnificent chances for them to discover the again of the internet with.

The records that show Shankland should be lethal for Celtic

Shankland ought to be a lethal striker at Parkhead with the modern Celtic star’s help based totally on his fantastic structure for Hearts over the ultimate 18 months.

 

Last season, the 28-year-old marksman plundered an eye-catching 24 dreams and 4 assists in 37 appearances and 33 Premiership starts for the Jam Tarts.

He has confirmed that his elegant return in front of goal remaining time period used to be no longer a flash in the pan. The £3m-rated ahead is currently the pinnacle scorer in the Scottish top-flight with thirteen goals.

 

These statistics suggest that Celtic would be bringing in a established scorer at this level and someone who has outperformed Rodgers’ present day quantity nine – Kyogo – each in terms of dreams and effectivity when it comes to taking ‘big chances’.

Therefore, the former Dundee United finisher would no longer waste as many massive probabilities in the front of goal as the Japan worldwide has, which may want to result in Palma being rewarded with greater assists for his top notch creativity.

Journalist Philip West hailed Shankland as a “big sport player” and that is backed up with the aid of his report this season. The Hearts captain has scored twice – in separate fits – in opposition to Celtic and as soon as against Rangers in the Premiership.

He additionally produced a moment of magic, as proven in the video above, in the 93rd minute of the Edinburgh derby in opposition to Hibernian to tightly closed a 1-0 win for his side.

This indicates that the Scottish ace is constructed for the huge event and, therefore, has the mentality required to be a success in a forced surroundings at Paradise as the skilled forward can step up in huge games to be a difference-maker.

Having a winger as great as Palma on the left of him at the pinnacle end of the pitch would also mean that he would get the possibilities that he wishes in the front of goal to be a elegant variety 9 for the Hoops, which is why Rodgers need to push to land his signature earlier than the give up of the month.

Barry Ferguson responds to Scott Brown’s title claims by supporting Rangers

Barry Ferguson has answered to Scott Brown’s claims that the Scottish Premiership title race is over already, insisting Rangers are nevertheless right in the mix.

Former Celtic skipper Brown regarded in the press this week where he mentioned the significance of the derby day victory for Brendan Rodgers’ aspect on December 30.

Ferguson agrees that the recreation at the turn of the 12 months was a massive one in the title race, however he is now not ruling out his former side simply yet, mainly given they have two games in hand over their rivals.

He wrote in the Daily Record: “I’ll say this about Scott Brown – he used to be continually up for a laugh.

“And, proper to form, my old Scotland team-mate gave me a snicker when I picked up my Daily Record on Thursday to discover he has declared the title race as correct as over already.

I don’t be aware of if this used to be simply Broonie being a wind-up service provider due to the fact he does enjoy getting under people’s skin. Or possibly he actually believes it.

He’s a former Celtic captain, after all, and doing his speakme from the different side of the fence. Which is honest enough.

“But, if that’s the case, then he’s solely kidding himself on. I’m now not writing this with my blue-tinted specs on either. And I’m no longer making an attempt to make headlines for the sake of it. But I firmly accept as true with this top-flight warfare is going all the way down to the wire and each person who thinks it’s carried out and dusted already desires to provide themselves a shake. Yes, I admit, I’d instead be in Celtic’s position at this midway point.

As I continually stated as a player, I a good deal select to have the video games played and the factors on the board. But, with Rangers having two games in hand, it’s not possible to say that it’s all over and to sincerely mean it.

“Don’t get me wrong, I’m not criticising Broonie for speaking Celtic up. It’s only natural that he’ll take their side the equal way as I do with my old club. But, come on man, this component is vast open and everyone knows it.

My truthful opinion is it’s impossible to predict how it’s all going to quit up. I do absolutely expect Rangers to win these video games towards Hibs and Ross County and reduce the gap at the top to two points.”

Rodgers is considering a move to Celtic for their “impressive” £14k-per-week marksman, viewed as Hooper 2.0

The Hoops are reportedly looking at a viable swoop to signal the centre-forward.

Celtic were exceeded a raise earlier this month as Japan decided no longer to call Kyogo Furuhashi up alongside teammates Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda for the 2023 Asian Cup.

However, fellow centre-forward Hyeon-gyu Oh has been chosen to feature for South Korea at the match and will be unavailable for the Hoops till the cease of his country’s involvement.

Kyogo is nonetheless searching for a return to the top of his powers as the Japanese striker has solely observed the lower back of the net eight instances in 22 Scottish Premiership appearances.

 

Last season, the 28-year-old plundered 27 goals in 31 league begins and averaged one strike each and every 87 minutes of action for the Glasgow giants.

His scoring frequency has dropped to one goal every one hundred ninety minutes of league football this term, which illustrates his drop-off in form since Brendan Rodgers arrived.

This, alongside with Oh’s involvement at the Asian Cup, appears to have caused the club to desire to dip into the market to add another range nine to their squad during the January transfer window.

Celtic switch news – Joe Gelhardt

The Daily Mail have pronounced that Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt is attracting interest from Scottish giants Celtic and Rangers this month.

Rodgers seems to be eyeing up a swoop to land the former Wigan prospect, who has struggled for sport time with Daniel Farke’s side so a ways this season.

They should face opposition from England for the gifted ace, though, as journalist Alan Nixon these days stated – via his Patreon – that Championship facet Blackburn Rovers are also pursuing a pass for him, alongside his teammate Charlie Cresswell.

However, the Daily Mail file does now not expose whether it would be a mortgage or a permanent deal for the English youngster, or whether or not or no longer the Whites are organized to let him go away earlier than the stop of the window.

 

A permanent deal ought to be the way to go for the Hoops as it would enable them to deliver him in as a long-term addition with the doable to enhance over the years to come.

At the age of 21, Gelhardt is still in the infancy of his first-team profession and has masses of time left in advance of him to enhance and grow as a player, which Celtic may also no longer advantage from if they are only able to signal him on mortgage until the stop of the modern-day campaign.

With a long-term deal for the gifted youngster, Rodgers ought to unearth the club’s subsequent model of Gary Hooper with the aid of securing a deal for the Leeds gem.

The former Hoops marksman, like Gelhardt, used to be a stocky and undersized centre-forward who made a identify for himself through his prolific scoring ability in Scottish football.

Gary Hooper’s record for Celtic

 

Celtic signed the English finisher from Scunthorpe United in the summer time of 2010 and he went on to revel in three tremendous years at Parkhead.

The five foot 9 attacker, who did now not reduce an imposing figure for opposition defences at the pinnacle end of the pitch, hit the ground going for walks with 22 goals and 9 assists in 36 appearances in all competitions.

That covered a incredible return of 20 desires and nine assists in 26 Scottish Premiership appearances, which is extra than one intention contribution per recreation on average.

Hooper accompanied that up with 29 goals and eleven assists in 50 fits in all competitions for the Hoops – which includes two desires and one assist in five Europa League outings.

His remaining marketing campaign in Scotland ended with a sublime return of 31 desires and ten assists in 51 games for Celtic. He scored two dreams in seven Champions League clashes and two dreams in 4 qualifiers for the competition.

Hooper’s haul of 20-plus desires in three consecutive seasons for the club used to be not matched till Odsonne Edouard carried out the equal feat by using 2021.

🟢 Odsonne Edouard is the first player to score 20 goals in 3 consecutive seasons for Celtic since Gary Hooper who did so between 2011 & 2013 pic.twitter.com/lZhb2wKpwF

— Sky Sports Statto (@SkySportsStatto) February 14, 2021

In total, the stunning ace plundered 82 dreams and 30 assists in 137 appearances for the Scottish giants in all competitions. This capacity that the English ace averaged a goal or an aid every 1.22 matches.

He then sealed a everlasting swap to Norwich City in England and went on to score 20 dreams in 70 games for the Canaries, with six desires in 32 Premier League appearances.

During his time with Celtic, Hooper was once a prolific scorer who additionally had the capability to convey his teammates into the sport with a solid return of assists, no matter his brief and stocky build as a wide variety nine.

The records that exhibit why Celtic must sign Gelhardt

Rodgers should unearth a striker with comparable qualities to the ex-Norwich megastar by using signing Gelhardt, who also stands at five foot 9 with a stocky build.

At the age of 21, the Leeds teen is far from the finished article and there is no guarantee that he will be an immediate hit at Parkhead this season. However, if they can land him on a permanent foundation then the conceivable is there for him to strengthen into Hooper 2.0.

Gelhardt has only made six appearances in the Championship for the Whites this season and spent the second half of of the 2022/23 campaign on mortgage with Sunderland.

 

As you can see from the table above, the former England U20 global struggled to furnish regular fantastic as a scorer or a creator for the Black Cats remaining term.

However, Gelhardt did show promise in his restricted Premier League minutes with Leeds formerly in his career. He plundered two goals and six assists in 35 appearances, despite only six of those coming as a starter.

The Celtic target’s report at formative years level, however, is what Rodgers might also be searching at as an indication that he could boost into a deadly scorer for the club.

 

Gelhardt scored five dreams in 5 games for Wigan at U18 level and then went on to produce 20 goals and six assists in 31 outings for Leeds’ U21s.

This skill that the £14k-per-week marksman, whose motion was hailed as “impressive” by journalist Josh Bunting, racked up 25 dreams and six assists in 36 childhood group video games before making a first-team breakthrough.

That is a return of one aim contribution each and every 1.16 fits on average, which is a very similar degree of manufacturing in comparison to Hooper’s time with Celtic.

Therefore, Rodgers should unearth the club’s new prolific English marksman by way of striking a deal for Gelhardt and supporting him to unlock his achievable at first-team level.

 

 

 

Kuhn first impressions, Bernabei verdict… 3 things we learned as Celtic beat Ross County

Celtic continued their winning form in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday, beating Ross County 1-0 at Celtic Park.

The Bhoys made it six victories in a row across all competitions thanks to a heavily deflected Alistair Johnston strike in the opening seconds of the match.

 

County gave a good account of themselves and Derek Adams’ team did create a few passages of play that made the win a nervy watch for Celtic supporters.

The league leaders were undoubtedly not at their best but it was an important three points to bank with second-placed side Rangers winning earlier in the day.

With intrigue surrounding Brendan Rodgers’ squad options at the end of this transfer window and some big matches ahead, what were the main takeaways from this one? Here are three of ours.

Nicolas Kuhn makes his Celtic debut
After signing in the build-up to last week’s Scottish Cup win over Buckie Thistle, Celtic fans were made to wait for Nicolas Kuhn’s first appearance but the German got a solid run out in the second half of today’s win.

Kuhn was brought on in the 64th minute for the misfiring Luis Palma, slotting in on the left flank, then switching to the right wing when Mikey Johnston was substituted on for Liel Abada.

He looked eager to get involved in the action but in truth, this was a lacklustre Celtic team performance and it was hard for the German to capitalise on any attacking momentum and break down Ross County.

 

MORE CELTIC STORIES

We know that the 24-year-old has pace and attacking guile – he did complete one dribble and had a couple of nice touches that showcased that.

Now that he’s overcome the hurdle of his debut, hopefully, the Celtic support will see him settle quickly and make a big impact.

Celtic FC v Ross County FC – Cinch Scottish Premiership

Alexandro Bernabei’s big Bhoys chance
Alexandro Bernabei was given his first start under Brendan Rodgers in this afternoon’s line-up after a calf injury to Greg Taylor.

It was a big chance for him to stake a claim and show he should be given a run in the team in the Scotland international’s absence.

However, frankly, it was more evidence that Celtic must be looking outside the club for better competition in the left-back position and a more viable rotation option.

The Argentinian was involved in the build-up to the winning goal early on, but he was too wasteful in possession in general and on the defensive side of the ball he struggled to win duels and tackles.

It’s so crucial that the recruitment staff put the pieces together in the final days of the transfer window and strengthen the position because Bernabei isn’t the answer.

Celtic FC v Ross County FC – Cinch Scottish Premiership

Kyogo Furuhashi’s isolation
When Kyogo Furuhashi looks isolated and is lacking service in a Celtic match, you know it’s going to be a long afternoon. That’s been a familiar pattern this season.

The Japanese forward only managed one shot despite playing for the full 90 minutes, which came from outside of the box. He cut a frustrated figure in a disconnected Celtic attack.

We know that even on good days Kyogo isn’t too involved in build-up play, he can usually bag one or two goals with less than 20 touches in the match in total.

However, today, he just never really had a sniff at goal, with Celtic lacking urgency and a cutting edge in the final third. We’ll need to see improvement from the Bhoys over the coming weeks.

 

 

 

Alexandro Bernabei made his first start for Celtic this season and his first start for manager Brendan Rodgers, at home to Ross County on Saturday afternoon.

 

Left-back Greg Taylor is currently out injured with a calf problem and is expected to be missing for several weeks.

That sparked competition for his place on the flank. Contenders included Liam Scales and youngster Mitchel Frame, or perhaps even one of the right-backs such as Anthony Ralston.

However, Rodgers opted to turn to the little-seen Argentinian Bernabei, retaining Scales in central defence alongside the returning Cameron Carter-Vickers.

Brendan Rodgers on Alexandro Bernabei Celtic start

Speaking pre-match, the Bhoys boss explained to BBC Radio Scotland that while there is a “brutal honesty” about his Celtic situation, Bernabei has nonetheless impressed in training.

Rodgers said when asked why the defender was included: “We’ve got players that can play the position but I think just for his balance of being left-sided.

“I think he hasn’t had his best time here, that’s the brutal honesty of it. I just asked him to play in the games like what I’ve seen from him in training at times.

“He’s aggressive, he’s quick but he needs to serve the ball with precision a little better. He has qualities, that’s why he was signed. He’s a guy who can hopefully show his best form because in training I’ve seen lots of good qualities from him. Greg Taylor has played at a really, really good level consistently.

“Bernabei gives us balance on that side of the field being naturally left-footed and he can be aggressive going forward. Hopefully, he can do well.”

Bernabei has been one of the big contenders to leave the club during the winter transfer window given his lack of minutes so far under Rodgers. However, Taylor’s injury may well have changed that.

Even if Celtic sign another left-back in the closing days of the window, Bernabei could be needed for cover while the Bhoys wait on Taylor’s return.

The chances of him being a long-term option for Celtic are slim at this point, but Bernabei could well get a run in the team that boosts his confidence and unlocks a bit of form.

 

 

Ange Postecoglou was impressed by how £164,000-a-week Tottenham star played vs Celtic

Ange Postecoglou did not hesitate when Tottenham Hotspur had the chance to sign Timo Werner, having watched him in action against his former club Celtic.

That is according to Football.London, which has shared how receptive Tottenham head coach Postecoglou was to the idea of bringing former Chelsea forward to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

So, what has been reported about Timo Werner and Ange Postecoglou? Let’s take a look.

Ange Postecoglou rates Timo Werner highly
Well, earlier this month, Tottenham Hotspur signed Timo Werner from RB Leipzig.

The North London club secured the services of the £164,000-a-week (SalarySport) Germany international forward on loan until the end of the season.

Werner has already made his debut for Tottenham, who have the option to make his loan deal permanent in the summer of 2024. The 27-year-old started against Manchester United and impressed Spurs head coach Ange Postecoglou.

Football.London has now reported that Postecoglou did not hesitate when Spurs Technical Director Johan Lange pushed the signing of Werner.

Timo Werner
Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
The report has claimed that Postecoglou “agreed that he would fit into his system well after seeing first hand how the 27-year-old had given his Celtic team all kinds of problems with RB Leipzig”.

 

MORE TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR STORIES

On October 5, 2022, RB Leipzig beat Celtic 3-1 in Germany in the UEFA Champions League. Werner started the match for the German club.

Then the following week, Leipzig won 2-0 against Celtic at Celtic Park. Werner scored in the 75th minute.

My View: Timo Werner a no-risk signing for Spurs
In my opinion, Timo Werner is a ‘no-risk’ signing for Tottenham Hotspur.

It is a loan deal, so if the former Chelsea forward fails to make a huge impact at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the coming weeks and months, then the North London club could just send him back to RB Leipzig at the end of the season.

I do not think that Werner should be used as a central striker. He is not prolific and misses chances. The German is best used out wide.

Tottenham are very much in the running for the Premier League top four and could even challenge for the title this season.

 

 

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.”

Tommy-conway-bristol-city

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.

 

kelleher-liverpool-celtic-transfer-gossip-livakovic
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.

SCOTTISH PREMIERSHIP
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.

borna-barisic-rangers-europa-league-clement
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.

borna-barisic-rangers-scottish-premiership
“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.

cameron-pring-bristol-city
RELATED
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
TRANSFER FOCUS

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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What a great Win “But bad News” Celtic Top player is seriously injured during…

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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What a great Win “But bad News” Tottenham Top player is seriously injured during…

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

62

Assists

13

Yellow cards

8

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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