James Tavernier scores for Rangers against Celtics following a contentious VAR penalty call.

James Tavernier scores for Rangers against Celtics following a contentious VAR penalty call.

Rangers vs Celtic: James Tavernier scores after controversial VAR penalty award

James Tavernier smashed home a penalty after a much disputed VAR decision that enraged commentator Chris Sutton.

I fought both Celtic and Rangers’ firms – they’d swamp us, but one team was worse’

Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh shed light on Hibernian’s rival firms during the peak of hooligan culture, with one Scottish team standing out from the rest

Hibernian and Rangers fans have clashed over the years

Scottish novelist Irvine Welsh experienced the heat of battle alongside Hibernian’s notorious firm in the 1980s.

The Trainspotting author, 65, is a long-time Hibs fan and witnessed the peak of the club’s Capital City Service (CCS) firm. The hooligan gang emerged in 1984 and were one of Scotland’s most feared and dominant mobs until the mid-1990s.

Their activities have diminished since the decline of football hooliganism in Scotland generally, though they reportedly remain active. And Welsh recalled his experience in facing fans of rival Scottish clubs Rangers and Celtic, though he didn’t rank either as the most formidable that he met.

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He explained in the book ‘Terrace Legends’ by Cass Penant and Martin King back in 2005: “Celtic and Rangers would come through to Edinburgh and swamp us in the 70s. They weren’t all dedicated hoolies, though it seemed that way at the time! For hardcore hooligan numbers, probably Aberdeen in the 80s [had the most].

“In general, though, some of the firms I saw in London, for numbers and organisation, were very impressive. Now I think that Cardiff City and Manchester United seem to have the biggest and best mobs.

“You couldn’t really compare Scottish firms (or most English ones) in size, but Aberdeen I would say – and this is largely anecdotal – have the most dedicated hoolies at present.”

Have you ever encountered a football firm? Let us know in the comments section.

Rangers were among the biggest Scottish firms (Image: Getty Images)

Famous Scottish novelist Irvine Welsh is an expert on Hibs casuals (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

He added: “Hearts [were our biggest rivals], though we both now probably hate Rangers and Celtic more as they have so much cash, but we still always like to beat each other.

“Hibs and Rangers have always had a rivalry, but the worst rows are probably still before, during and after the first Edinburgh derbies of the season.”

Hibs casuals were also known as the Capital City Service

Their brawls with rival firms turned “bloody” and “nasty”

Notorious Hibs top boy Bobby Lipscombe once recalled a mass brawl with Rangers hooligans in Slateford Road, near Hearts’ ground, in 1994. He explained how around 60 rival fans carrying chains and sticks mounted an attack on Hibs casuals, who had just their fists and boots as weapons.

The violence turned “bloody” and “nasty”, with one Rangers fan being caught and ‘cabbaged’ – meaning to kick someone unconscious.

Lipscombe said: “[His] head hanging all bloody. By the time we had finished with him, he was barely conscious. One of the CCS boys said that he’d had enough. I disagreed and kicked the guy’s head again. He went out cold. He would have done the same to me.”

 

 

The Celtic teammate who made Arsenal invincible retire as he shares candid Parkhead truth

The former Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool man joined Celtic in 2016.

Kolo Toure has revealed that the performances of a young Dedryck Boyata in training pushed him into retiring shortly after joining Celtic.

Toure signed for Celtic as a 35-year-old back in 2016, reuniting with his former Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers at Parkhead. The Ivorian was brought in as an experienced head to lead young teammates, having won the Premier League with two different clubs and been part of Arsenal’s ‘Invincibles’ campaign.

A trusted option, Toure started regularly in the opening months of Rodgers’ first season in charge but minutes grew harder to come by as the squad’s younger talent began to blossom. And it was one teammate in particular, also with Premier League experience, that tipped him towards hanging up the boots.

“There was a game,” Toure told the High Performance podcast. “We had a break after December and we came back. I had a conversation with Brendan and he asked if I would be able to play that game.

“We had a young player, Dedryck Boyata – he was doing very well at training that week before we started the second half of the season. I thought I had to make sure I didn’t play that game or I’d make the team lose. I wasn’t at my full potential.

young player’. As a human, you have to know your limitations. I realised at that moment, let this boy play. He’s doing very well in training, just give him this chance.

“Going back to Martin Keown – he supported me when I came to Arsenal. He never stopped me developing myself and I was thinking I don’t want to stop this young boy from developing.”

Toure would end up retiring at the end of his first season at Celtic – another in which his side went unbeaten – and join Rodgers’ coaching staff at Parkhead. The former defender then followed Rodgers to Leicester City before taking an ill-fated swing as manager of Wigan Athletic before being sacked after just two months in charge.

 

 

I do not purchase these Celtic conspiracies but this all smacks of placing Brendan Rodgers in his area – Hugh Keevins

But now Celtic followers have been given a get-out clause while they watch today’s recreation on television.

Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers address the fans

The commercial enterprise of alleging the game’s governing bodies orchestrate things to sabotage Celtic is a nonsense.

The club’s prolonged run of success, while annexing 11 of the closing 12 titles, tells you any conspiracy theories go through from a wonderful drawback. The total absence of any great proof. Class, and now not connivance, has been the routine theme. Which is why Brendan Rodgers goes into today’s recreation against Rangers having misplaced just one Old Firm derby out of 15 played.

Rather than play hunt the conspiracy, the Celtic guide need to confront the reality. At one time this season they had an eight-point lead over their best rivals. A manager-led resurgence at Rangers following the arrival of Philippe Clement has coincided with the erosion of that hole and uncovered a level of negligence from Celtic. But now Celtic fans have been given a get-out clause while they watch today’s recreation on television.

 

The appointment of John Beaton as the referee at Ibrox is insensitive at pleasant and a gratuitous distraction. The event has an element of Brendan’s Last Stand about it on the grounds that a win for Rangers would put them two factors clear of his group with a game in hand. Today’s suit needed no synthetic stimuli, such as the appointment of a fit authentic who has, in the eyes of the Celtic support, cornered the market in innuendo. Rodgers called Beaton incompetent when Celtic misplaced to Hearts on March 3 and served a one-match touchline ban for expressing himself too explicitly for the SFA’s liking.

The selection to appoint the equal referee to this high-octane sport smacks of the authorities inserting Rodgers in his place. I wrote here last week the only way things should have been made worse relative to fuelling the conspiracy theorists was once by means of doing precisely what they have finished with regard to Beaton. It is taking a baseball bat to common experience when a cooling-off length was the higher phase of discretion.

Rodgers tried to adopt a conciliatory tone with his remarks about the ref at Friday’s press conference however his phrases were too without difficulty pushed aside as diplomacy in action. You can’t go from incompetent to “one of the very excellent in the country” in the house of four weeks.

There were no Scottish referees at the ultimate World Cup in Qatar and there will be none at the Olympic soccer tournament in Paris this summer. Being one of the very best in Scotland doesn’t amount to much. And it doesn’t alter my trust the SFA did what was excellent for them – and no longer this fixture – when they chose the suit reliable for Ibrox.

Beaton’s appointment isn’t even fair on the referee himself or Clement. Rangers followers will accuse the referee of cowardice if any controversial choice must be made in favour of Celtic. And if Rangers win the accusation will be made that the end result had as a whole lot to do with Beaton as Clement. Any referee dealing with this fixture is mechanically implicated in one conspiracy theory or another.

It is the historic baggage that comes with a contention underpinned by means of suspicion concerning the transparency of the officiating. Rodgers has usually labored in instances of prosperity at Celtic however this is his first season dealing with adversity. He hasn’t always treated it well.

That’s what today’s sport should be all about in terms of storytelling. But now the end result will be examined in forensic detail for the way in which it was arrived at. And that, in my opinion, is the fault of the SFA.

 

 

Rangers v Celtic late team news and probable line-ups as Old Firm rivals suffer mixed injury fortunes…

Old rivals do battle at Ibrox in third derby of the season

The third Old Firm derby of the season takes place at Ibrox today, with the result likely to have a significant bearing on the title race.

Celtic travel across Glasgow to take on Rangers leading their arch rivals by a point, although Philippe Clement’s men have a game in hand over Brendan Rodgers’ men. So far Celtic have held the upper hand in derbies this season, winning 1-0 at Ibrox and then 2-1 at Parkhead.

In terms of team news, both managers have been able to welcome players back off the treatment table over the past few weeks, although there is a big doubt for Clement at left-back. Ridvan Yilmaz, who looked to have made that position his own of late, picked up an injury while on international duty with Turkey two weeks ago and could miss out. Borna Barisic – a veteran of such fixtures – would deputise in his absence.

Ridvan Yilmaz, left, is an injury doubt for Rangers against Celtic.

Midfielder Ryan Jack, winger Oscar Cortes and striker Danilo are all expected to be absent as well, although the return to fitness of forward Abdallah Sima bolsters Rangers’ options. The on-loan Brighton man made his reappearance last weekend against Hibs after months on the sidelines and will be a welcomed option for Clement from the bench.

For Celtic, their big injury news comes in the shape of captain Callum McGregor. The influential midfielder has been missing for a month due to an tendon complaint, but Rodgers is hopeful that he will be able to start. If he comes back into the team, it is likely Tomoki Iwata will drop out. Winger Luis Palma is also winning his battle with a muscle issue and is in contention for a place on the bench.

Now fully fit, midfielder Reo Hatate is expected to start, while Kyogo Furuhashi and Adam Idah are vying for a place as the main striker.

Probable Rangers team: Butland; Tavernier, Goldson, Souttar, Barisic; Diomande, Lundstram; Wright, Cantwell, Silva; Dessers.

Probable Celtic team: Hart; Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Scales, Taylor; O’Riley, McGregor, Hatate; Kuhn, Furuhashi, Maeda.

 

Paulo Bernardo reveals Fabio Silva competition is nothing new but Celtic big name full of praise for mortgage Ranger…

The Portuguese pair will put their friendship to one aspect as they flip into competitors in a blockbuster derby showdown

They have been brothers in palms for Portugal due to the fact making their global debuts together as schoolboys.

But Paulo Bernardo has had no hassle putting his friendship with Fabio Silva on maintain this past week as they put together to face each different in Old Firm hostilities at Ibrox. Celtic midfielder Bernardo and Rangers striker Silva were facet through side as these days as last month on a profitable worldwide ruin with Portugal’s Under-21s.

Both gamers had been in scoring shape as convincing victories over the Faroe Islands and Croatia saved the Portuguese firmly on route to qualify for subsequent year’s Euro Under-21 finals in Slovakia. Even as they shared the pleasure of those wins, however, the duo had been casting their minds ahead to today’s big showdown. The Old Firm conflict at Ibrox could go a lengthy way to finding out which one of them ends the Scottish season as league title winner.

Bernardo said: “We spoke to each different about it when we were taking part in for the national team last month. We were each pronouncing it will be a accurate game. I want Celtic to win, Fabio needs Rangers to win – so let’s see.

“We have a excellent relationship. We spoke when he first arrived in Glasgow in January. Then we spoke once more when we met up with the countrywide team. But there has been no contact between us this last week. I don’t suppose we have shut down our friendship but it’s a amazing sport and we are rivals. Off the pitch, me and Fabio are friends. But now we are just targeted on the game.”

It’s not the first time Bernardo and Silva have been on opposite facets of a well-known soccer divide. They had been pals and competitors all through their careers in formative years soccer with Portugal’s big two Benfica and Porto.

Bernardo said: “We have regarded each different because Under-14 football. He played for Porto, the competitors of Benfica where I began, then he got here to Benfica for two seasons. He then went again to Porto and we grew to be competitors again – however we nonetheless played collectively for the national formative years teams all the way thru the age groups. So we have recognised every other for pretty a lengthy time now.”

Bernardo used to be first to make the cross to Glasgow when he joined Celtic on a season-long loan from Benfica final summer. Silva, signed through Wolves from Porto in a £35million transfer 4 years ago, followed his compatriot north in January this year when Rangers secured him on mortgage for the 2nd half of the campaign.

Bernardo said: “I’m now not surprised at how nicely Fabio has done. I’ve always idea he is a proper player. When he got here to Rangers I thinking it would be true for him and for their group too.

“He is doing well. Just for this game, though, I hope he can take his foot off the pedal! Fabio is fast and strong. He presses a lot. Technically he is a correct player and he finishes well. So we have to take care of him when we face him in the derby.”

While Silva prepares for his Old Firm debut, Bernardo is hoping to create another unique memory after scoring a lovely purpose in his first sport towards Rangers in Celtic’s 2-1 win at Parkhead returned in December.

The 22-year-old smiled and said: “It used to be excellent to score, it used to be a correct goal. The atmosphere at the game was stunning for me.

“I’d heard before the in shape that it was a huge game. It used to be desirable and I loved it a lot. But we have to put together ourselves to do it again. We are feeling confident. It is going to be a good fit however we will prepare for this recreation like we do for any other.

“It’s three points on the road. We play each and every recreation to win. It’s one game, no longer a final. It’s a big game but I don’t think it will be decisive in the title race.

“We will prefer to win all of our final games to win the league. It’s the identical for each sport – we have to prepare ourselves the fine we can to play excellent soccer and win the game.”

Celtic have dominated the Old Firm fixture in recent years with Brendan Rodgers taking part in an especially spectacular document of just one defeat in his 15 games against the Ibrox side. “That’s appropriate but each and every game is just one game,” stated Bernardo. “The past is the past. We have to construct again for the future.

“We anticipate to face a splendid opponent. Rangers are our opponents so they have to be proper too to play in opposition to us. So let’s see. The group are confident. Some gamers have come lower back from harm too so that’s accurate for the group.

“There is a lot of opposition for locations and that helps the team. Everyone will supply the nice of themselves to play properly football.”

Although it may also affect his personal potentialities of a location in the starting line-up, Bernardo welcomed the return from damage of Celtic captain Callum McGregor.

He said: “Callum is our chief so it’s suitable to have him back. He is the voice of the team. We have some other necessary players however Cal is our captain and it’s really proper to have him back. It’s excellent timing. It offers us greater self belief and greater high-quality too. He’s a fantastic participant as well as a superb captain.”

 

ONE CELTIC WIN: BEATON DERBY RECORD

CELTIC have won solely one of the four Glasgow derbies in which John Beaton has been referee.

Guess who’s back? Messi returns to Inter Miami coaching after hamstring injury

The champions have suffered two defeats and drew the other while the controversial whistler has been in charge.

Beaton used to be the in shape professional in Brendan Rodgers’ solely loss in this fixture.

As the Hoops prepare for for the High Noon showdown at Ibrox these days – with Beaton the man in the center – CQN looks at the records with all the games taking vicinity in the Premiership.

April 29, 2017

Rangers 1 CELTIC 5

BRENDAN RODGERS masterminded the Hoops’ biggest-ever victory at Ibrox on the same day John Beaton made his debut in the fixture.

The traffic went ahead early in the contest with a penalty-kick from Scott Sinclair beyond Wes Foderingham. The award came after Patrick Roberts had been despatched sprawling after a late assignment from left-back Myles Beerman.

Leigh Griffiths walloped in a 2d aim in the 18th minute and Callum McGregor claimed the 0.33 seven minutes after the interval. Dedryck Boyata headed in No.4 and Mikael Lustig added down the curtain on an overwhelming overall performance with a solo effort three minutes from the end.

Kenny Miller claimed the hosts’ comfort strike in 81 minutes.

Lustig and Boyata were each booked whilst Beaton also brandished yellow cards to Andy Halliday and Josh Windass.

December 29, 2018

Rangers 1 CELTIC 0

JOHN BEATON was at the centre of controversy when he failed to take motion in opposition to Alfredo Morelos after the risky Colombian had been involved in flashpoint incidents with Celtic trio Scott Brown, Ryan Christie and Anthony Ralston.

Amazingly, the hot-head striker escaped except even a lecture from the lenient fit official.

The Hoops hierarchy were so incensed via the referee’s inept showing that they launched a statement, calling on the SFA to inspect his performance.

It was once a day to forget for the champions as Brown deflected a shot through Ryan Jack past Craig Gordon for the solely purpose of the game.

Beaton proved he had remembered to convey his cards by booking the unlucky Brown, Mikael Lustig and Kristoffer Ajer have been recommended whilst Andy Halliday used to be the solitary home participant to be punished via the whistler.

October 17, 2020

CELTIC 0 Rangers 2

PARKHEAD was a ghost ground in the midst of Covid-19 restrictions when Ibrox centre-back Connor Goldson emerged as the not going purpose hero with a double.

It was once a fairly low-key stumble upon played in silence, however John Beaton still felt the need to book Celtic captain Scott Brown alongside with team-mate Shane Duffy.

To stability matters, Alfredo Morelos – at last! – and Scott Arfield were yellow-carded.

January 2, 2023

Rangers 2 CELTIC 2

JOHN BEATON was again in the limelight when he failed to discover a blatant hand ball with the aid of Connor Goldson when he beat away a shot from Carl Starfelt as the Hoops trailed 2-1.

The Ibrox aspect escaped punishment and, astonishingly, the onfield authentic was once no longer even urged by way of VAR colleague Willie Collum to evaluate the incident.

Daizen Maeda raced past James Tavernier and Connor Goldson to slot the opening goal beyond the outrushing Allan McGregor in the fifth minute.

The game turned on its head inside six minutes of the restart when Ryan Kent whipped in an angled equaliser and Beaton awarded the hosts a spot-kick after Fashion Sakala went to ground after a tackle from Starfelt in the box.

Slow movement replays advised the home forward had instigated the coming together, but the referee was no longer persuaded to change his thought and James Tavernier drilled the award high previous Joe Hart.

Two minutes from te end, justice used to be carried out when Kyogo Furuhashi thumped in his first derby goal two minutes from time to maintain his team’s nine-point benefit at the Premiership pinnacle.

Beaton booked solely one Celt – Starfelt – and one of the hosts, Ryan Jack, in a keenly-contested stumble upon to start 2023.

 

 

Transfer Update – Celtic make an offer for Trabzonspor ‘keeper Ugurcan Çakir

Turkey’s goalkeeper #23 Ugurcan Cakir throughout the UEFA Euro 2024 Group D qualifying soccer suit between Wales and Turkey, at Cardiff City Stadium, on November 21, 2023.=(Photo by using ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP by Getty Images)

According to a Turkish publication, Celtic have launched an respectable provide for Trabzonspor goalkeeper Ugurcan Çakir. The Celtic Star first reported on this last month, when it was published that the stopper was once on a shortlist of potential candidates to be Joe Hart’s inheritor in between the sticks for the Scottish Premiership Champions.

Now Taka in the player’s place of birth have given an replace and noted Hoops CEO Michael Nicholson by means of name, in what is a very unique nugget of statistics if it had been simply rumour. This is a very interesting one as it’s clear that the goalkeeping branch will need a ideal rethink this summer season switch window.

Scott Bain and the not often spotted Benjamin Seigrist are our back-up goalkeepers respectively, however Seigrist is supposedly looking for a new domestic and Bain is by no means definitely known as upon either.

Turkey’s goalkeeper #23 Ugurcan Cakir kicks the ball throughout the UEFA Euro 2024 Group D qualification  match between Croatia and Turkey at the OPUS Arena Stadium in Osijek, on October 12, 2023.

Which begs the question: will Celtic spend truely massive on a new wide variety one ‘keeper to exchange the retiring Joe Hart? The Turkish international Çakir had been amassing admiring glances from English giants Liverpool a couple of seasons ago and there is also a report from Brendan Rodgers’ time at Leicester City which scout Lee Congerton – previously of Celtic – claiming he was the quality goalkeeper he had ever seen live.

Turkey’s goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir dives however fails to retailer the 2d intention scored through Switzerland’s midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri (not in picture) at some stage in the UEFA EURO 2020 Group A football  between Switzerland and Turkey at the Olympic Stadium in Baku on June 20, 2021.

Could there be a link there when it comes to Çakir as Rodgers looks to stamp his own authority on the squad this summertime? A £7.5 million price is pronounced to have been sent by way of e mail from Michael Nicholson to the player’s membership in Turkey, with a view to advancing the deal for the quit of the current season. So Celtic could be getting all their geese in a row for the upheaval of subsequent campaign.

🇹🇷 | 𝗨ğ𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗮𝗻 Ç𝗮𝗸ı𝗿 – 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀

As per @TakaGazetesi

– Michael Nicholson contacted Tranzonspor by using email

– Celtic ask permission to invite Cakir’s agent

 

 

£22M STAR SNUBBED CELTIC AND COULD SOON BE PLAYING FOR REAL MADRID OR MAN CITY

Celtic appear to pick their friends well. After all, if you are on the lookout for talented young players available on affordable deals, there are certainly worse clubs to strike up a relationship with than Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.

Over the last decade or so, Celtic have signed no fewer than seven players from the perennial Premier League champions, the majority arriving on short-term loans in pursuit of the sort of regular first-team football that had proven to be out of reach in a star-studded squad south of the border.

And while not all of those deals worked out as expected – Daniel Arzani was a big disappointment and John Guidetti didn’t really live up to expectations – most Celtic supporters will look back fondly on the time when Olivier Ntcham, Patrick Roberts, Dedryck Boyata, Jason Denayer and especially Jeremie Frimpong were wearing green-and-white.

Frimpong, in particular, was nothing short of a revelation at Parkhead, and Celtic deserve much credit for the role they played in the development of a man who can now be considered among the very best full-backs anywhere in European football. The flying Dutchman has a remarkable 12 goals and 11 assists this season, and is part of that outstanding Bayer Leverkusen side cruising 13 points clear of Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga table.

Celtic missed out on Manchester City’s Yan Couto

And when Frimpong left Celtic for Leverkusen back in 2021, The Hoops jumped on speed dial and set about lighting up Guardiola’s phone again. This time, however, their pursuit of another Man City starlet would end in disappointment.

“He was going (to Parkhead) on loan,” former Celtic defender Gary Caldwell told Clyde SuperScoreboard of one Yan Couto.

Caldwell was working as Man City’s loan manager at the time, and was a key part of the discussions which eventually led to Couto – now capped three times for Brazil – joining Braga instead of the Scottish giants.

“We actually spoke about it when I was at his house. He said the stadium the (Celtic) supporters were incredible,” Caldwell added. “(But) he felt like the language barrier would have been a big thing.

“So he’s probably made the right decision for his career development. He was drawn by (the chance to play for Celtic) but he decided to go to Braga.”

Three years on, while Couto has not quite scales the same heights as Frimpong, he’s certainly not far behind. Girona, like Leverkusen, have taken European football by storm this season, a place in the Champions League for the very first time their’s to lose. Couto has been a major part of that unexpected success story, a rampaging, rocket-fuelled presence down the right-hand side.

Real Madrid or Manchester City?

Still technically a Manchester City player, Couto’s form has reportedly caught the eye of none other than Real Madrid. There is, then, a very real chance that Couto will be wearing the colours of one of Europe’s A-list clubs as soon as 2024/25.

“Yes, if (Real Madrid) are interested, they would be an option,” Couto tells Catalunya Radio. “I’m not going to lie.

“(But) I am a City player. I have a contract there and I dream of playing for City.”

According to reports, Couto is valued at around £22 million these days. He may have turned down the chance to follow in Frimpong’s Parkhead footsteps but, with both full-backs seemingly destined for the elite, Celtic could do worse than to cast their eyes on the newest generation of Man City starlets this summer if Brendan Rodgers wants to add more fresh-faced talent to his roster.

Watch as Brendan Rodgers leads players off the bus to salute Green Brigade

Brendan Rodgers was first off the group bus to thank the Green Brigade for arranging a noisy and colourful ship off for the first group squad as they prepare for Sunday’s Glasgow Derby.

It appeared as if a few thousand fans had packed The Celtic Way to cheer the crew off earlier than a healthy in front of no Celtic fans.

After the manager got off the bus he was once accompanied by his players as they enjoyed some acclaim and backing in advance of a fixture which will be played in the most adversarial of territories.

If the players had been ever not sure how a lot this club means to us ….. More than a soccer club. Play for the people, play for the reason ??? pic.twitter.com/efGRLpREgz

— Gee (@Geemc90) April 6, 2024

Earlier the players had all been cheered for the primary act of parking their auto then reporting internal the front entrance.

After departing from Celtic Park the squad will have booked into a hotel to complete their preparations for Ibrox.

With a 12 noon kick off and arrival at the stadium predicted between 10 and 10.30 tomorrow morning will consist of little greater than breakfast then getting on the bus for the experience along the Motorway to Ibrox.

At 10.45am the crew will be announced, answering the large query of what role if any Callum McGregor plays in the match.

Green Brigade in epic Celtic send off as Brendan Rodgers salutes ultras’ banner ahead of Rangers clash…

Celtic fans turned out in their numbers this evening to cheer the team off ahead of tomorrow’s blockbuster at Ibrox

There won’t be any Celtic fans at Ibrox tomorrow. But Brendan Rodgers and his squad were left in no uncertain terms what’s at stake as thousands gathered to give them an epic send-off.

The champions were given a rousing reception at Parkhead tonight as they made their way for an overnight hotel stay ahead of tomorrow’s title showdown against Rangers. The Green Brigade and Bhoys ultras were out in force as they unveiled a banner reading “By any means necessary” along the Celtic Way.

The Hoops head to Govan a point ahead of their arch-rivals, having played a game more, and a victory would see them reclaim their grip on the title with just six games to go. Here, Football Scotland picks out the 10 best pictures from today’s electric send-off.

 

 

Celtic Targets Turkish Goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır as Joe Hart’s Successor – Report

Celtic is reportedly placing its attractions on Trabzonspor’s standout goalkeeper, Uğurcan Çakır, as they prepare for existence after Joe Hart. With Hart’s legendary profession coming to an cease following his retirement announcement, the club is actively looking for top brain to make sure the goalkeeping gloves are well-filled for the upcoming season.

Uğurcan Çakır, the 28-year-old Turkish countrywide team goalkeeper, has emerged as a high target for Celtic in their quest to bolster their squad. Having spent his complete expert career at Trabzonspor, Çakır has developed into one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the Turkish Süper Lig, showcasing his abilities with exceptional saves and constant performances.

Reports from Taka Gazetesi suggest that Michael Nicholson, Celtic’s chief executive, has initiated contact concerning Çakır’s transfer, indicating the club’s serious intent. Furthermore, it is believed that Brendan Rodgers is for my part driving the pursuit of Çakır.

The goalkeeper role has been recognized as a key place for reinforcement, especially with the void that will be left by using Joe Hart’s departure. Hart’s contributions to Celtic have been immense, and finding a necessary successor is paramount for the club’s future.

 

 

Philippe Clement excited instead than worried about keenly-awaited Old Firm derby

Philippe Clement is excited as a substitute than worried about Sunday’s keenly-awaited Old Firm sport at Ibrox.

Rangers are one point at the back of reigning cinch Premiership champions Celtic with a recreation in hand as title race tensions increase by means of the week.

It is the first of eight remaining league fixtures for the Govan side, who are determined to wrest the title again from Parkhead and it is the first home Glasgow derby for the Belgian boss.

Asked if there had been any nerves from within heading into the game, Clement said: “No, I love it. I’m no longer nervous, I’m excited about it, I’m looking ahead to it.

“This is something you need to embrace, not be frightened about. These are notable afternoons.

“I have a lot of self assurance in my squad and I have a lot of confidence in our fans so these are the challenging moments because you play in opposition to a suitable team who will do their excellent to beat you and there will be a lot of fantastic from each sides.

“It’s the only way additionally to develop as a player, to have challenges, to have challenging games, to play towards accurate opponents.

“If you make the subsequent steps into that you go to every other level and that’s what I choose to do with this membership and with the squad subsequent season – to end up higher and to elevate the level time after time with a lot of success and possibly some disappointments alongside the way because that’s also the way to success. To study lessons out of that.

“I decide upon to have success on Sunday, let’s be clear about that.”

Clement admits Rangers will want to preserve an eye on Celtic captain Callum McGregor, who is predicted to return from injury to the Hoops midfield the place he was once instrumental in guiding his side to a 1-0 win at Ibrox in September – when Michael Beale used to be Gers boss – and a 2-1 victory at Parkhead in December.

He said: “I don’t definitely agree that he dominated the play at Celtic Park. There were moments that he used to be right on the ball but there have been additionally moments where he wasn’t dominating the game.

“I think my midfielders additionally dominated the sport in moments. I noticed the first recreation and it’s authentic he was dominating however I don’t need to say too plenty about that.

“He’s a very right participant and he’s any individual with a lot of quality.

“He’s simply suitable on the ball and he’s very important for their team so it’s important to take that energy out of their crew and that’s one part you want to do however it’s not only about one player. They have a lot of excellent players.”

 

 

Neil Lennon makes his massive Celtic vs Rangers derby prediction in advance of Sunday

We’re less than 24 hours away from Sunday’s huge in shape between Celtic and Rangers at Ibrox in the Scottish Premiership.

Final coaching periods have been completed, the managers have given their pre-match media conferences and fans are establishing to sense acquainted tension and excitement.

One man who knows all about the fixture is Neil Lennon. Few are higher placed to offer their opinion on the matter.

As a player, he had an notable record against Rangers, dropping simply 9 of the 31 he featured in. As a manager, he additionally loved success in the derby and constantly knew how to get his gamers up for the huge occasion.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he’s now given his prediction on how Sunday’s healthy will pan out at Ibrox with the title race firmly in the balance.

Neil Lennon on Celtic vs Rangers

Lennon said: “Both of them have been notably consistent. Celtic have kind of found their mojo once more in the last few weeks. They’ve received players lower back fit.

“My personal opinion is I can’t see Celtic dropping it. It should be a draw or a Celtic win. Rangers will be up for it and the crowd will be up for it but Celtic have acquired the extra pleasant and extra match-winners. If Callum McGregor is fit, that may want to be pivotal.

 

“Kyogo is searching extra like himself again and he’s a huge recreation player. He hasn’t had the amount of dreams this season that he’s had in preceding years however he’s a big recreation player. His report in the derby is exceptional – it’s up there with Henrik Larsson’s really. He’ll be one to watch tomorrow.”

Celtic don’t want to blow Rangers away

Avoiding defeat would in reality be a high quality result from a Celtic perspective. Although Rangers would be able to go lower back to the pinnacle of the league with the aid of winning their game in hand, it would maintain the Bhoys’ future in their personal hands.

Brendan Rodgers and his group would then get the chance to deliver Rangers to Celtic Park after the break up and shoot for glory in the front of 60,000 domestic supporters.

Celtic aren’t going to settle for a draw tomorrow, they aren’t wired like that. However, if Lennon’s prediction rings authentic and the Bhoys tightly closed at least a point, Rangers will sense the pressure.

 

 

West Ham United: Celtic target Ardon Jashari makes transfer decision

West Ham and Celtic target Ardaon Jashari accomplished his cross to Club Brugge this week, according to Voetbal Nieuws.

The Dutch media outlet suggested on 5 April that the 21-year-old performed his transfer which value Brugge £5million.

He used to be linked to a quantity of golf equipment inclusive of the Hoops and Hammers however did no longer pass to the United Kingdom.

West Ham can do better than Jashari

While Jashari was linked with clubs like the Hammers, it doesn’t show up that the Hammers made a genuine effort to impenetrable his signature.

The focal point seems to have been extra on high-profile targets, as indicated through their pursuit of other players.

Additionally, Jashari’s go to Club Brugge for £5million suggests that he can also not have been considered as a priority for the London outfit, who might have been looking for more set up or pricey midfield options.

Considering Jashari’s age and distinctly modest switch rate in contrast to different rumoured targets, it’s not going that he would have straight away reinforced their starting lineup.

Even although the 21-year-old has conceivable and could develop into a exceptional player in the future, his signing may no longer have been a top priority.

Join the West Ham Zone WhatsApp channel to get all our exclusives and the breaking switch news FIRST.

David Moyes is struggle the sack at West Ham

Should he increase into a serious intelligence in the future, there is a precise hazard that the Hammers re-light their interest in him.

 

Ahead of the Ibrox Derby Clash, an anxious Kris Boyd breaks ranks.

 

Celtic take on Rangers in the early Sunday kick off and Boyd has damaged ranks to pile pressure on Rangers.

In a stunning shift from the ordinary bravado, Kris Boyd has overtly expressed his concerns in advance of the much-anticipated conflict between Rangers and Celtic.

Traditionally seen as an unwavering cheerleader of Rangers, Boyd’s current remarks have added a fresh narrative surrounding the upcoming game.

Contrary to the prevailing trust that Celtic is underneath stress to invulnerable a win, Boyd has pointed the highlight closer to Rangers and their manager, Philippe Clement, emphasising the imperative nature of this the Ibrox clash.

With the recreation set to take area on Sunday, Boyd highlighted Rangers’ less-than-stellar file at Parkhead and their latest failures to overcome Celtic at home, which capacity this tie turns into pivotal for Rangers.

His blunt evaluation leaves no room for ambiguity: “So overlook this view that a draw isn’t the worst end result for Rangers tomorrow. Nonsense. This is a must-win game.” He told SunSport.

Boyd’s comments also carry interest to the psychological component of the match, in particular the conceivable have an impact on on both teams’ morale. “If Celtic even get a factor tomorrow, all at once Brendan Rodgers’ facet will odor blood,” he fearfully remarked.

The game is now not just a physical contest but a psychological battleground, with the effect in all likelihood to sway the momentum in favour of the victor.

Both teams are bringing their strengths to this fantastically expected showdown. Rangers will gain from the home subject gain and the absence of away supporters, which may want to tilt the ecosystem in their favor.

On the other hand, Celtic’s tested music record and their ability to impervious crucial points below stress are elements that can’t be underestimated.

Anticipation is constructing among fans. Boyd’s unexpected show of subject has brought a layer of intrigue. Making it clear that the result will have far-reaching implications for each Rangers and Celtic. The stage is set for an enthralling encounter.

 

 

“A draw wouldn’t be the worst end result for Celtic,” Jackie McNamara

It’s all to play for the next day lunchtime and if Celtic had been to win at Ibrox against theRangers, then it really would be a statement victory which places us in pole role to hold our Scottish Premiership title. However, if we can’t win, it’s imperative that we do no longer lose it -that’s the view of former Celtic first-rate Jackie McNamara.

Jackie McNamara and Henrik Larsson  celebrates with the trophy after triumphing the 119th Scottish Cup Final between Celtic and Dunfermline at Hampden on May 22, 2004. (Photo by means of Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)

Jackie knows all about these fits and pressurised title fights into the bargain, having been a imperative cog all through the Martin O’Neill-era at Celtic Park, when each aspects were absolutely slick outfits.

Part of a side with the likes of Neil Lennon, Chris Sutton, Alan Thompson and Henrik Larsson, McNamara was once a magnificent utility participant who used to be very adaptable and was once deployed in quite a number areas with the aid of O’Neill in the course of these golden years at Paradise. He used to be always dependable and regularly helped plug holes in that terrific team.

Kyogo Furuhashi celebrates for the duration of the Scottish Premiership healthy between Celtic and St. Johnstone at Celtic Park on March 16, 2024. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

The participant who used to be signed from Dunfermline Athletic returned in 1995 via the Hoops, rekcons that there are differences to Celtic this term under Brendan Rodgers. Speaking to Sky Sports Scotland’s Mark Benstead beforehand of this one, he said: “Yeah, I suppose there’s delicate differences in terms of how they play.

The depth that Ange had in his team, I think positive groups are needless to say sitting in towards them, which makes it a bit extra difficult. Your no longer seeing the fantastic in the likes of Kyogo. You see that they’re at their quality when they’re pressing. It sets the tone. It lets in the midfield to come up and it creates house for them. And it’s difficult for the opposition to get again in. And I think we’ve considered that in the closing few weeks – getting back to that.

Looking returned over some of the goals, he continued: “I think when they’ve received this space to go in to, Kyogo isn’t getting picked up and he’s bought his returned to goal. He’s usually better when he’s going through the opposition goal and there’s area to run in to.

I assume that’s been the predominant distinction from this season. He’s not scored as many dreams due to the fact he’s perhaps bought his back to intention more. But as I said, there’s been exact symptoms the last week’s that we’re starting to see a higher intensity. They’re transferring the ball quicker. They growing more opportunities.”

When requested without delay if depth ought to be extra vital this weekend and if Celtic ought to get any pleasure in a specific region in opposition to Phillipe Clement’s men, he replied: “Yeah, I think they’ve been stable enough. Again, when the supervisor came in there’s been a shielding structure. They’ve modified little bits there. They’re out wider gamers in and it’s saved their full-backs defending more.

But I suppose there’s house there. In between the centre-backs and full-back, Celtic can hurt them. You comprehend just over the top, if it’s Kyogo coming in to the house there. And the ultimate factor you favor is your centre-backs away out in the left-back area.

That’s some thing that I assume Brendan will attempt and implement at the weekend. You recognize simply balls over the top. I know it’s a bit special however you see the electricity there. They seem to battle when their backs are towards goal.”

With the want for the home side to come out and really press the Champions, McNamara counseled it could supply Celtic with the chances they need to win the match in Govan. “Yeah, they’re at home.

Celtic’s won the first two video games this season. Their problems haven’t been against theRangers. It’s other teams sitting in. But you expect theRangers being at home with all the supporters to try and dominate the ball, which creates space and as I said, if Celtic get proper in about it from the begin and preserve that intensity up, which they’re capable of doing, I think it’s areas they can harm them.”

On the decisive nature of the consequence of the fixture for each sides, Jackie said: “Yeah, it’s A without a doubt necessary one due to the fact there’s now not many games left. I think it’s necessary Celtic don’t lose the game. TheRangers have bought the game-in-hand. There’s not many video games to go and a draw wouldn’t be the worst end result for them”

🗣️ “I think it is quintessential Celtic don’t lose the game. A draw wouldn’t be the worst result.”

Jackie McNamara appears at how Celtic could approach Sunday’s recreation against Rangers – stay on @SkyFootball and NOW: https://t.co/kkHulPnZP2 📺 pic.twitter.com/eoeMF9OF5E

— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) April 3, 2024

 

 

Part Seven of RODGERS v. RANGERS

BRENDAN RODGERS is preparing for his players for the visit to Ibrox tomorrow, his third derby stumble upon considering that returning to Celtic in June last year.

The Irishman has already loved a double triumph in the preceding meetings – 1-0 at Ibrox on September three and 2-1 at Parkhead on December 30.

Now Rodgers is gearing up to go again in the High Noon showdown.

In his first stint, the Hoops gaffer enjoyed phenomenal success between May 2016 and February 2019 when he faced Celtic’s city foes on thirteen occasions and triumphed 10 instances whilst drawing two and losing solely one.

In another CQN EXCLUSIVE series, we look at the fifteenth conflict before the flip of the year – and another celebration.

 

JOY RODGERS…the Celtic boss acknowledges the celebrating followers after the 2-1 derby success at Parkhead in December.

 

December 30, 2023: Premiership:

CELTIC 2 (Bernardo, Kyogo), Rangers 1 (Tavernier)

A SPECTACULAR double strike from Paulo Bernardo and Kyogo Furuhashi fired Celtic to a vital triumph at Parkhead.

It used to be a rollicking, rocking stumble upon as the champions eased eight points in advance at the Premiership pinnacle in their quest for their twelfth title in thirteen years.

The site visitors have been decreased to 10 men in the 71st minute when Leon Balogun floored Daizen Maeda as the Japanese speedster raced through on goal.

Referee Nick Walsh had no alternative however to banish the Ibrox defender and there could be no argument as the player headed for the tunnel.

STRIKE ONE…Paulo Bernardo thunders an unstoppable right-foot force toward the Ibrox net for the opening goal.

The hosts have been two desires in advance at the time and have been in whole control, but, inexplicably, allowed the visitors lower back into the contest when James Tavernier despatched a 20-yard free-kick high previous Joe Hart in the 88th minute.

The deadlock was broken with a surprise strike from Bernardo in the twenty fifth minute that nearly ripped the internet from the stanchion behind Jack Butland.

Luis Palma whipped in a right-wing corner-kick to the near put up where Abdallah Sima rose to head away. However, his clearance fell solely as a ways as the lurking on-loan Benfica midfielder.

Bernardo hit the ball first-time with ferocious timing from 16 yards and his effort sincerely bulleted previous the Ibrox keeper at his left to thump against the net.

Parkhead rocked to its foundations as 60,000 joyous fans rose in unison to greet the superb effort  from the new Bhoy who only scored his first goal for the Hoops in the Boxing Day win at Dundee.

STRIKE TWO…Kyogo Furuhashi fires a breathtaking shot high past jack Butland.

Bernardo picked up a booking from over-fussy fit offical Walsh for celebrating with the supporters.

In the thirty fifth minute, Rodgers was once pressured to make a exchange after Stephen Welsh, in for the injured Cameron Carter-Vickers, hurt his left shoulder in an awkward fall.

Maik Nawrocki, who hadn’t figured considering the League Cup loss towards Kilmarnock in the third recreation of the season, came on in his place.

The Polish centre-back slid into the back-four as although he had been there at some point of the campaign. It was a fantastically stunning return for the summer recruit.

PARADISE…Kyogo Furuhashi is congratulated with the aid of ecstatic Celtic team-mates Daizen Maeda, Paulo Bernardo, Alistair Johnston, Luis Palma, Liam Scales and Callum McGregor after his marvel 2d goal.

The second-half had an explosive start when Kyogo claimed a breathtaking intention for Scotland’s title kings as he notched his seventh strike this 12 months towards the Govan club.

Maeda and Nawrocki have been involved in the build-up on the proper with the defender choosing out Matt O’Riley with an astute forward pass.

The elegant Danish worldwide playmaker moved the ball onto the Japanese hitman lurking 25 yards backyard the box.

The hazard indicators right away flared as Kyogo jinked inside and then dragged the ball to his left before sending a certainly stupendous 47th-minute strike excessive past Butland into his pinnacle left-hand corner.

JOLLY RODGERS…the Celtic boss acclaims Kyogo Furuhashi’s splendid purpose to make it 2-0.

Rodgers made a 2d change in in the 71st minute when he changed Bernardo with David Turnbull and only moments later Balogun saw pink when he hauled down Maeda.

In the 83rd minute, the Hoops gaffer made three changes as he took off marksman Kyogo, Maeda and Palma and despatched on Oh Hyeon-gyu, Liel Abada and Mikey Johnston.

Some slack play allowed the 10-man opposition again into the fit and Tavernier had the nerve ends jangling with a free-kick that swirled high past Hart.

The remaining whistle used to be greeted with almighty cheers amid massive relief as Rodgers smiled at a job nicely executed

 

 

Mum who receives her package off for greater cash makes daring Rangers vs Celtic prediction…

EXCLUSIVE: Rangers host Celtic this weekend and one Gers fan has made a daring prediction in advance of the derby – no matter announcing she will be too nervous to sleep the night time before

Cherry Bloom believes Philippe Clement will carry the title again to Rangers (Image: Instagram/cherrybloombabe)

An NHS cleaner turned raunchy model has made a bold prediction ahead of the grudge healthy between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox.

The Bhoys have a slender one point lead at the top of the table however have played one sport more than their Glasgow opponents – and Cherry Bloom, 42, is assured her cherished Rangers will triumph on Sunday.

Despite feeling positive, the Scottish mum-of-four, whose real title is Lisa, stated she would be too nervous to sleep appropriate the night before the derby.

 

The mum believes it will be a comfy victory for the guys in blue (Image: Cherry Bloom)

Speaking to Daily Star, she said: “I’m feeling excited about the game. The construct up is first-rate all week and these games are tough to pick out a winner. But the momentum we have just now has absolutely impressed me and I suppose all symptoms factor to a Rangers win that will be a large step to winning the league.

“I’m very confident it will be a 3-0 Rangers win. I simply can’t see any different outcome. I assume the January signings have been huge for us and we have the momentum.

“On Sunday I will be up early and won’t truely sleep – I in no way do. I will attempt to have some food however it will rely on the nerves and then get ready, get my kit on and get settled to watch the game and then have a excellent night time celebrating after.”

The footie lover works part-time for NHS Lanarkshire however she bolstered her bank balance over 12 months ago by growing a subscription web page on OnlyFans.

She recently had a £1,000 advert close to Edinburgh’s Murrayfield Stadium removed after complaints – however despite the setback, embracing her attractive facet has been a welcome enhance for her household all through the cost-of-living crisis.

The married mum works as a cleaner and as a racy mannequin to supply for her family (Image: Instagram/)

Cherry says she will be sporting her Rangers package to the stores if they get the win at the weekend (Image: Cherry Bloom)

While existence may additionally be desirable for Cherry who makes £2,000 a month from her titillating content, that will be difficult to appreciate if Celtic leave Ibrox with three factors this weekend.

She said: “I simply don’t go out if we lose. I’m now not an handy person to be round on the off occasions that occurs lol. I would just continue to be in and have some dinner and would be in mattress early as well. It can take me till the subsequent sport to recover before I’m in a happy mood again.

“But when we win my mood is notable and I typically text or telephone household or buddies and head to the keep whilst shopping in my package – that’s a must.

“I will have a proper night time as well whether or not that potential going out or just a takeaway. I am a completely happy lady, that’s certain.

“I will possibly be on my OnlyFans too because there is big wide variety of fans on there are looking for something extraordinary after a top result so I higher now not disappoint them and make it a great day for everyone.”

 

Kolo Toure talks about how his Celtics teammate convinced him to retire in the middle of the season

When Kolo Toure arrived at Celtic in 2016 it used to be well-acknowledged that he used to be coming towards the end of his career.

The Ivorian signed for the Bhoys from Liverpool at the age of 35 as Brendan Rodgers looked to bolster his new backline with an experienced professional he depended on implicitly.

He was at first a starter in Rodgers’ team, taking part in European qualifiers, a resounding 5-1 derby win over Rangers and a 3-3 draw away to former club Manchester City.

However, his contribution lessened as the season went on. He found himself on the bench earlier than subsequently retiring at the cease of the Invincibles marketing campaign and transitioning into a coaching role.

Toure has now revealed that this decreased role was once due to his very own realisation he was once no longer capable to compete in the way he’d like and that he was about to hold up his boots.

Selfless Kolo Toure opens up on retirement moment

The embellished defender says that the coaching performances of Dedyck Boyata made him apprehend that he had to step apart for the properly of the Belgian and Celtic.

Toure advised the High Performance podcast: “There was a game. We had a wreck after December and we got here back. I had a conversation with Brendan and he asked if I would be in a position to play that game.

“We had a young player, Dedryck Boyata – he was once doing very well at education that week before we started the 2nd 1/2 of the season. I concept I had to make certain I didn’t play that recreation or I’d make the team lose. I wasn’t at my full potential.

“I said to the boss play that young player. As a human, you have to know your limitations. I realised at that moment, let this boy play. He’s doing very nicely in training, just give him this chance.

“Going again to Martin Keown – he supported me when I got here to Arsenal. He by no means stopped me developing myself and I was once wondering I don’t desire to stop this younger boy from developing.”

Kolo Toure’s Celtic spell used to be quick however sweet

Toure solely ended up playing 17 instances for Celtic but he made pretty an affect on supporters and squad mates.

He was a very famous character and that helped him end up an influential member of Rodgers’ coaching staff.

There’s obviously a lasting mutual perception between Toure and the Bhoys, with the defender additionally not shy about sharing his admiration for the present day manager.

Hopefully, he will stop up back in a distinguished coaching or administration position soon, so we can see where the next phase of his profession takes him.