Paul Lambert on why ‘special’ Celtic atmosphere can drive home Champions League qualification bid

Celtic’s atmosphere on Champions League nights is one of the most famed commodities in Europe’s premier competition.

Undoubtedly, the roar heard at Parkhead under the lights has already inspired some brilliant results this campaign, taking the Bhoys’ tally to seven points from four league phase matches.

On matchday one, Celtic thrashed Slovan Bratislava on home soil, helping to record their first win in an opener since the tournament rebranded back in 1992.

After a heavy defeat in Dortmund and a solid point away to Atalanta, the Bhoys saw off RB Leipzig in their last Champions League match before the international break, leaving them on the brink of securing a knockout playoff berth.

Once Celtic’s trip to Tynecastle is complete, a win against Club Brugge next Wednesday would guarantee progression. In light of what is set to be another special night in Glasgow’s east end, Paul Lambert has honed in on the power that sets Parkhead apart from the rest.

Paul Lambert on Celtic’s ‘special’ European night atmosphere

Speaking on The Football News Show, Lambert believes Celtic’s ‘special’ atmosphere on a European night can help to inspire more performances like the ones fans have already seen at home in the Champions League this season.

He stated when prompted on the subject: “What you do get at Parkhead on a European night is a special atmosphere. It’s different from the league, the only one that would probably rival it if they do get their head together with Rangers and put the fans back into the stadiums; that’s the game that rivals everything, the Celtic vs Rangers one because of the two sets of clubs and fans and everything it’s got.

“But European nights are special, without a doubt. I think even Lionel Messi even said it’s one fo the best atmospheres that he played in was at Parkhead, so the fans definitely turn up. European games have always been like that, it’s a special atmosphere and it’s loud, it’s proper loud!

“It can go against you as well if you get Celtic on the back foot, but most times it’s not; Celtic are on the front foot at Parkhead, and it’s a special, special atmosphere.”

Celtic’s remaining Champions League matches set exciting scene

Four matches stand between Celtic and their Champions League fate, and it is fair to say anticipation is bubbling below the surface as the Bhoys look to cement their place in the knockout stages.

Brugge, Dinamo Zagreb, Young Boys and Aston Villa present a quartet of difficult challenges for Brendan Rodgers to overcome. Each carry their own threat, make no mistake about that.

Regardless, Celtic have earned the right to fancy their chances against anyone on the continent, especially on home soil.

Hopefully, the Bhoys can see themselves over the line as history beckons on the European stage this campaign.

What you should know about, Erin Cuthbert booed by Celtic fans as TNT Sports commentator forced to address awkward reception live on air

The Scotland international was given a frosty reception by travelling Hoops fans after coming off the bench in the Champions League clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge

Erin Cuthbert before Chelsea’s clash with Celtic (Image: Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Scotland Women’s star Erin Cuthbert found herself subject to boos after coming off the bench for Chelsea in their Champions League meeting with Celtic – leaving the TNT Sports commentator to awkwardly point out the reasons for the jeers.

The two sides were facing off on matchday four of Europe’s premier competition, with the Blues coming from behind to claim a 2-1 victory at Parkhead last Wednesday. And early in the second half with the WSL giants in cruise control at 2-0 up, Cuthbert – who started her professional career with Rangers before moving onto Glasgow City in 2015 – was introduced by Blues boss Sonia Bompastor to a chorus of boos from travelling Hoops fans inside the stadium.

And the jeers were noticed by TNT Sports commentator Jacqui Oatley during the coverage of the game, who quickly realised just why the away fans were not best pleased to see 72-time Scotland cap Cuthbert. She said with a chuckle: “If you did hear any boos from the Celtic contingent, that’s likely why, as we just heard a minute ago. The Rangers supporter from the south of Glasgow.”

Cuthbert saw the funny side of the boos and was visibly smiling as she entered the field of play. The Irvine born-midfielder – who has scored 27 goals for her country – arrived at Stamford Bridge seven years ago and has won seven WSL titles, four FA Cups and two League Cups.

Why Chelsea women gave Celtic the Champions League Blues

Chelsea’s Wieke Kaptein (right) celebrates scoring their side’s second goal of the game with team-mate Lucy Bronze during the UEFA Women’s Champions League match at Stamford Bridge, London. Picture date: Picture date: Wednesday November 20, 2024. PA (Image: John Walton)

Chelsea defeated Celtic 3-0 at Stamford Bridge to clinch a place in the quarter-final of the Women’s Champions League.

Sonia Bompastor’s team reeled off an impressive 11th successive victory in all competitions to complete a quickfire Euro double over Elena Sadiku’s resilient Celtic side who remain pointless in Group B having scored just once and conceded 10.

First-half goals by Lucy Bronze and teenager Wieke Kaptein had the Blues 2-0 up and cruising at the break against the Scottish champions. It took until added on time before Chelsea added a third from the spot when Shannon McGregor was penalised for handball following Bronze’s cross and Eve Perisset made no mistake from 12 yards.

If Chelsea needed any motivation in this match the players knew they only needed a point to guarantee a place in the last eight of the competition before kick-off.

Celtic head coach Sadiku made two changes to her side that lost 2-1 to Chelsea at Parkhead seven days ago. Out went Bruna Costa who was replaced by Caitlin Hayes in central defence and Colette Cavanagh came in for Natalie Ross in midfield.

Bompastor made six changes of her own as she demanded a lightning start from her charges. The French head coach got her wish as the Scottish champions conceded the opening goal after just 65 seconds of this contest.

Chelsea’s Catarina Macario slung over a cross following a short-corner routine which was met by Bronze on the volley and despite Celtic goalkeeper Kelsey Daugherty getting a hand to the ball she could not prevent it from hitting the back of the net.

It was Bronze’s first goal in the Champions League for Chelsea although she had previously netted in Europe for Barcelona, Lyon and Manchester City. Sadiku’s team knew they were in for a long night in the English capital as Celtic struggled to get a foothold in the contest.

However, just as Celtic were enjoying their best spell in the game the hosts made it 2-0 on 25 minutes. Once again it was another short corner routine that did the damage for the visitors as 19-year-old Dutch international Kaptein netted her first-ever Champions League goal when she glanced home a superb header from Guro Reiten’s delicious ball from the right.

In a rare foray up the park on 40 minutes Celtic’s Amy Gallacher floated a beautiful pass into the path of Lucy Ashworth-Clifford but she was easily snuffed out by two Chelsea defenders before she could get a shot away.

Second-half Chelsea substitute Colombian international Maya Ramirez then tried her luck from eight yards but Hayes was on hand to put in a good block on 56 minutes. The same player was inches away from sliding home a third in the closing stages.

There was even time for Chelsea to throw on 17-year-old English football sensation Lola Brown for the last five minutes before Perisset put a bit more gloss on the scoreline with the late penalty counter.

In the end, it was Bompastor’s side who booked a safe passage into the last eight. The Blues have made no secret of the fact that they have set their sights on dominating the women’s game both domestically in the WSL and at Champions League level.

Bompastor also has form in this tournament after becoming the first woman to win the Champions League as both a player and as a manager following her European triumph with Lyon in the 2021/22 season.

The French head coach is desperate to repeat that feat with Chelsea who would dearly love to join Arsenal on the honours list with the Gunners being the only English side to win the Women’s Champions League back in 2007.

Celtic’s steep Champions League learning curve continued but Sadiku’s outfit deserved a lot of credit for defending resolutely for large spells despite slipping to their third defeat in a row.

Whilst Celtic may still be novices at this elite level of women’s club competition, one thing is for certain both the Swedish head coach and every member of her squad will be all the better for having enjoyed the experience of this European adventure moving forward.

Chelsea 3-0 Celtic: Player ratings as the Blues fly past Celtic in Champions League

Chelsea beat winless Celtic 3-0 at Stamford Bridge

Lucy Bronze scored in the opening minute to put Blues ahead

WSL leaders yet to lose a game under Sonia Bompastor

Chelsea continue their winning streak / Chloe Knott – Danehouse/GettyImages

FROM STAMFORD BRIDGE: Chelsea breezed past Celtic FC to solidify their spot at the top of their UEFA Women’s Champions League (UWCL) group stage on Wednesday night.

A bright start at Stamford Bridge saw Chelsea take the lead after just one minute thanks to a spectacular volley from Lucy Bronze. A first UWCL goal from Wieke Kaptein and a penalty from Eve Perisset solidified the victory for the Blues, who are yet to drop a point under the new management of Sonia Bompastor.

The win means that Chelsea solidify their spot at the top of their group, securing qualification into the next round of the European competition. Celtic however, are still left waiting for a point at the bottom of the standings.

How the game unfolded

Chelsea earned themselves an early corner, threatening Celtic from the first whistle. The hosts grabbed the lead after just one minute, as Sjoeke Nusken and Catarina Macario combined in a short corner on the edge of the box. None other than Lucy Bronze would meet the looping cross, sending her strike first time into the back of the net.

Macario had the chance to double Chelsea’s lead just minutes later, as her quick-feet weaved through the Celtic defence before sending her shot just over the crossbar.

It was a night of kick and hope for Elena Sadiku’s side in the opening stages, as Celtic’s only real chances came from long balls over the top which were all quickly snuffed out by the Chelsea defence.

The visitors created their best chance in the 18th minute, as Amy Gallacher located Murphy Agnew with a line breaking pass down the spine. Agnew felt the presence of a tracking Millie Bright, sending her shot extremely off-target in haste.

Chelsea’s set piece prowess paid off again in the 24th minute, as a short corner combination allowed Guro Reiten the time to launch a cross into the area. A nicely timed run from Wieke Kaptein allowed her to meet the ball in the air and head home a second for the Blues.

The second half picked up right as it left off, with Chelsea orchestrating the proceedings. The Blues struck early, but Kaptein’s shot from distance was fired just over the crossbar. Rytting Kaneryd was given a similar opportunity minutes later, but once again her curling strike was just high of the target.

A blunder at the back almost opened the door for the visitors in the dying moments, as Zecira Musovic turned over possesion on the edge of the box. The Chelsea goalkeeper breathed a sigh of relief as Celtic’s forward was found offside.

Late drama saw the hosts receive a penalty, as Shannon McGregor was caught for a handball inside of the area. Eve Perisset stepped up to the spot, calmy slotting home Chelsea’s third goal of the evening.

Chelsea player ratings (4-3-3)

Chelsea FC v Celtic FC – UEFA Women’s Champions League 2024/25 Group Stage MD4 / Justin Setterfield/GettyImages

GK: Zecira Musovic – 7/10 – Didn’t have much of a job at all on the night as Celtic only registered one shot on target the entire game. Nearly made a costly error in the closing moments as she turned over possession in the final third.

RB: Lucy Bronze – 9/10 – An incredible volley in the opening minute gave Chelsea the lead at Stamford Bridge, and set the tone for the rest of Bronze’s evening. A strong and intelligent showing from the English defender.

CB: Maelys Mpome – 8/10 – A much improved performance from the centre back in comparison to the away leg. Looked very certain of herself defensively next to Bright, and proved to be a bright outlet from defence for Chelsea.

CB: Millie Bright (c) – 8/10 – A really solid showing from the Chelsea captain. Snuffed out every ball Celtic tried to play over the top and did well to organise the Blues defence.

LB: Ashley Lawrence – 8/10 – Another strong performance from a reliable defender, Lawrence did well to combine with Reiten in the width to move the ball forward intently.

CM: Sjoeke Nusken – 7/10 – A quiet night for Nusken, but not a negative performance. Celtic sat deep, therefore the midfielder didn’t have much of a defensive task to do in the central areas. Had some bright moments in possession.

CM: Oriane Jean-Francois – 7/10 – Some nervous moments in possession, but all went unpunished. Really beginning to settle into the Blues midfield and will continue to improve when given more minutes.

CM: Wieke Kaptein- 9/10 – The young midfielder thoroughly deserved her first Champions League goal after weeks of shining form. Chelsea’s future sure is bright, and Kaptein has proved that she might be the future star with the highest ceiling. Backed up her Player of the Match performance from last week brilliantly, proving herself as a real creative asset for Chelsea.

RW: Johanna Rytting Kaneryd – 8/10 – Was an engine down the Chelsea right-side, tracking back when necessary and causing real issues for Celtic when carrying possession forward.

LW: Guro Reiten – 7/10 – Proved deadly on set pieces, however was much more quiet than usual in other areas. Made no mistake and had some bright moments, but nothing extraordinary.

ST: Catarina Macario – 7/10 – Caused nightmares for the Celtic defense from the opening minute, out-muscling her markers and combining well with her teammates in the midfield to move play forward. Would have received a higher rating had she played the second half.

Substitutes

SUB: Mayra Ramirez (46′ for Macario) – 6/10 – A really strong presence as always, however lacked her usual clinical edge in front of goal.

SUB: Erin Cuthbert (58′ for Rytting Kaneryd) – 7/10 – Her usual composed self, helping Chelsea contain a majority of the possesion in the second half.

SUB: Eve Perisset (69′ for Reiten) – 8/10 – Not a lot to do for Perisset given Celtic posed minimal threat, however the defender composed on the ball in the moments she had it. A cool and collected penalty finish for Chelsea’s third.

SUB: Lola Brown (85′ for Lawrence) – N/A

SUB: Julia Bartel (85′ for Nusken) – N/A

Unused subs: Hannah Hampton, Maika Hamano, Katie Cox, Nathalie Bjorn, Sandy Baltimore

Manager

Sonia Bompastor – 9/10 – Bompastor can do no wrong in West London at the moment, extending her winning streak out to eleven games unbeaten since arriving at Chelsea. She learned from last week’s performance, and selected the right amount of experience and rotation in order to get the most out of her side. The new manager got the most out of young players like Kaptein, whilst prolonging the primed periods of experienced talents such as Bronze.

Lennon Miller transfer race heats up as EPL giants ‘join’ Celtic and Rangers in Motherwell star scouting mission

The 18-year-old is the talk of the town at the moment and is attracting plenty of stellar interest

Lennon Miller

Scouts from English Premier League giants have joined Celtic and Rangers in keeping a very close eye on Motherwell star Lennon Miller – according to a report.

The 18-year-old midfielder has lit up the Premiership with two goals and three assists in his first 11 matches this season, leading fans and pundits alike to call for Steve Clarke to hand him a spot in Scotland’s senior team. But according to Sun Sport, it was during the Dark Blues U19s 0-0 draw with France on Tuesday night that Scotland skipper Miller was visited by an elite list of scouts.

They report that representatives from Celtic, Rangers, Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool and Aston Villa were all present to run the rule over the talented teenager in person in the stalemate at the Falkirk Stadium. They add that Ibrox official Nils Koppen – who has now been appointed as the Gers technical director on top of his role as head of recruitment was among those taking in the game,

Celtic’s former head of recruitment John Park – who is poised to leave Blackburn Rovers, was also present, according to the report. Miller – son of former Aberdeen and Scotland international Lee Miller – still has 18-months left on his contract at Fir Park and recently captained the first team in their defeat to Rangers in the semi-final of the Premier Sports Cup.

Celtic hold internal talks about signing new “key player” in free transfer

Already thinking ahead, Celtic chiefs have now reportedly held internal talks about signing one Championship player who is on course to become a free agent in 2025.

Celtic transfer news

The Bhoys are once again on course to win the Scottish Premiership, albeit whilst being kept incredibly close by surprise challengers Aberdeen, and have even managed to pick up a couple of impressive results on the Champions League stage to match. Brendan Rodgers‘ side even went as far as defeating RB Leipzig 3-1 before the international break and will no doubt be looking to pick up where they left off once domestic football returns.

Those at Celtic Park will be celebrating their recent success with some caution, however. After all, the last time that one of their top stars stole the show on the biggest stage, he swapped Scotland for the Premier League and Brighton & Hove Albion. Desperate to avoid a Matt O’Riley repeat, Celtic will be looking to keep hold of the likes of Nicolas Kuhn amid recent interest in his signature.

Meanwhile, when it comes to incomings, they may get the chance to reverse the trend. According to 67 Hail Hail, Celtic chiefs have held tentative internal discussions about signing Josh Brownhill when his current Burnley contract comes to an end next summer. In what would be a free transfer, the Bhoys could land another Championship star and could offer pre-contract terms in the New Year.

An experienced midfielder who has played Premier League football, Brownhill could replace O’Riley once and for all. Still just 28 years old, the Burnley captain is far from past his best just yet, having scored five and set up one other goal in 15 appearances in the Championship so far this season.

“Key” Brownhill would be the ultimate bargain

A player who’s stealing the show in the Championship as Burnley set their sights on promotion, Brownhill’s rise is one that former manager Vincent Kompany saw coming. When in charge of Burnley, the Belgian told reporters as relayed by Four Four Two: “Keeping Brownhill this season was crucial and he was ready for the responsibility to become a key player.

“I still see some growth in his game. I don’t want to talk him up too far but he can be one of the players of the Championship if he stays on this road this season.”

The Clarets may not be so lucky to keep hold of Brownhill for a second time, however, and will even miss out on the chance to cash in on their midfield star if he fails to sign a new contract at the club.

When January arrives, the 28-year-old will have the opportunity to sign a pre-contract agreement with any club outside of England that makes an approach, which could see Celtic take full advantage.

The Hoops already welcomed one Championship player in the form of Adam Idah last summer and can now land another by signing Brownhill on a free deal next year.

We Need to Talk About Arne Engels

As the international break draws to a close, attention turns back to Celtic Park, where Brendan Rodgers’ squad is gearing up for a crucial stretch of fixtures. Among the talking points surrounding the Hoops is Arne Engels, with some dissenting voices in the support moaning about him already. Using his price tag as the reason for him seemingly not doing enough. But the player is evolving, and he’s changing Celtic’s midfield for the better; let’s look into it!

A Rising Star in the Midfield

Engels’ arrival in Glasgow sparked intrigue and debate, with fans looking to see how the Belgian midfielder would adapt to the intensity of Scottish football. Despite an expected adjustment period, the 20-year-old has already offered glimpses of the dynamism that persuaded Celtic to invest so heavily.

With 14 appearances across all competitions, Engels has recorded three goals and three assists—a promising start for a player finding his rhythm in a new league. These contributions are particularly impressive given the relentless schedule of domestic and European fixtures that Rodgers’ squad has faced, with the Celtic manager mentioning that it is quite the jump from playing one game a week with Ausburg to playing sometimes three times a week with Celtic and the pressure each game brings.

10th November 2024; Rugby Park, Kilmarnock, Scotland: Scottish Premiership Football, Kilmarnock versus Celtic; Arne Engels of Celtic on the ball

Tactical Evolution Under Brendan Rodgers

Rodgers has taken a patient but demanding approach to Engels’ development, tasking him with roles across the midfield to identify his best fit. Initially deployed in a variety of positions, Engels has settled into a central, box-to-box role that highlights his stamina, ball-winning ability, and knack for linking defence to attack.

Recent matches against Aberdeen and Hearts underlined his growing influence. Engels displayed his tactical awareness and creativity, covering significant ground while orchestrating transitions from deep and pressing high. His ability to adapt and thrive under pressure has made him an asset in Celtic’s evolving midfield.

International Progression

Engels’ performances have not gone unnoticed at the international level. During the recent break, he added two more caps for Belgium, gaining valuable experience against top-quality opposition. Although Belgium’s results were not what they would have wanted, Engels earned plaudits for his work rate and technical skill, showing he can compete at an elite level.

Such exposure is only set to accelerate his development, with Rodgers poised to reap the rewards of his player’s growing confidence and experience.

The Future of Celtic’s Midfield

As Engels continues to embed himself in the squad, his partnership with captain Callum McGregor is beginning to flourish. The young Belgian provides a complementary balance, allowing McGregor to dictate tempo while offering defensive support and a creative outlet.

Soccer Football – Champions League – Celtic v Slovan Bratislava – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – September 18, 2024 Celtic’s Arne Engels celebrates scoring their second goal Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff

The Belgian’s versatility and energy are becoming invaluable assets, particularly as Celtic prepare for crucial Champions League ties. His ability to press high, win back possession, and provide forward momentum could be pivotal in ensuring the Bhoys continue to compete.

A Player to Watch

At just 20 years old, Arne Engels has already demonstrated he has the tools to become a key player for Celtic. His maturity, adaptability, and relentless work ethic align perfectly with the club’s ethos, and fans will be eager to see how he continues to develop under Rodgers’ guidance. So discard those who are putting him down and branding him as not good enough because they think he should be scoring more, etc.

If Engels maintains his upward trajectory, he could be the transformative player Celtic have long sought in midfield—a box-to-box dynamo capable of impacting both domestic and European campaigns.

Celtic have had some hugenames don their colours over the years.

It has resulted in continued success and trophy after trophy, regardless of who is in the dugout, from Ronny Deila to Brendan Rodgers’ second spell.

Yes, some have been more entertaining than others, but the Bhoys have been successful, dominant and nothing seems to be stopping them.

But then there are those names that have, either passed through the Celtic gates without anyone realising or players who have been linked to the club, but never joined for one reason or another.

Simon Ferry is known for presenting Open Goal, but once upon a time, he was on Celtic’s books without making an appearance.

And he shared how a former Fulham midfielder could have possibly represented the might of Celtic, even if he wasn’t a huge name on the Premier League stage.

Si Ferry says Jimmy Bullard wanted ‘£50k-a-week’ at Celtic

Si Ferry started his career in 2006 at Celtic, before being let go in 2010 without making a single appearance.

At that time, Jimmy Bullard was on Fulham’s books in the Premier League and perhaps at the peak of his powers.

So, if Ferry is claiming that the Englishman wanted ‘£50k-a-week’ at Celtic, then you presume it would have been during a period when he was still in Glasgow and in the late noughties.

Either way, speaking on Open Goal, Ferry mocked Bullard for it and even joked ‘you tried to rinse the club’.

“I have always been close to the (Scottish players),” said Bullard. “I played with a lot of Scottish boys and I have always been really close. I don’t know if it’s an accent thing or just the way you are. I always love what you are about. I just love it.”

Si Ferry then interrupted: “I can remember you wanting £50k-a-week at Celtic,” to which Bullard responded “And the rest.”

Ferry then added: “Trying to rinse the club. Trying to F___ing fold the club.” And Bullard then joked: “That was my dad, not me.”

Bullard’s career path

There are very few characters left in the game and Bullard certainly was that, both during and post his career.

Celtic had that with Scott Brown, but you wonder if Bullard did move to Parkhead if he would have been good enough for the club.

The midfielder had an injury-hit career, but still played close to 100 games in the Premier League and was known for his spectacular goals.

Erin Cuthbert booed by Celtic fans as TNT Sports commentator forced to address awkward reception live on air

The Scotland international was given a frosty reception by travelling Hoops fans after coming off the bench in the Champions League clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge

Erin Cuthbert before Chelsea’s clash with Celtic (Image: Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Scotland Women’s star Erin Cuthbert found herself subject to boos after coming off the bench for Chelsea in their Champions League meeting with Celtic – leaving the TNT Sports commentator to awkwardly point out the reasons for the jeers.

The two sides were facing off on matchday four of Europe’s premier competition, with the Blues coming from behind to claim a 2-1 victory at Parkhead last Wednesday. And early in the second half with the WSL giants in cruise control at 2-0 up, Cuthbert – who started her professional career with Rangers before moving onto Glasgow City in 2015 – was introduced by Blues boss Sonia Bompastor to a chorus of boos from travelling Hoops fans inside the stadium.

And the jeers were noticed by TNT Sports commentator Jacqui Oatley during the coverage of the game, who quickly realised just why the away fans were not best pleased to see 72-time Scotland cap Cuthbert. She said with a chuckle: “If you did hear any boos from the Celtic contingent, that’s likely why, as we just heard a minute ago. The Rangers supporter from the south of Glasgow.”

Cuthbert saw the funny side of the boos and was visibly smiling as she entered the field of play. The Irvine born-midfielder – who has scored 27 goals for her country – arrived at Stamford Bridge seven years ago and has won seven WSL titles, four FA Cups and two League Cups.

Celtic Luis Palma special request to Honduras FA revealed

Luis Palma had limited involvement for Honduras during the international break (Image: SNS)

Celtic made a request to the Honduran FA to limit the minutes of Luis Palma because of concerns over their pitch in their international break, according to local reports.

And Honduras boss Reinaldo Rueda revealed he then had to sub Palma off at half time in Mexico because he couldn’t cope with the high altitude of the venue.

Palma has been lightly used by Celtic this season and has made just one league start and three substitute appearances so far this campaign.

He was on international duty this week in a rollercoaster few days where he netted a double after coming off the bench in the first leg of the Concacaf Nations League quarter finals.

But he played for only the first 45 minutes in the return leg where Honduras were crushed 4-0 and eliminated.

And reports from the Central American country state Celtic asked Honduras manager Reinaldo Rueda to restrict the amount of minutes for Palma in the home leg because of the artificial surface at the General Francisco Morazán Stadium in San Pedro Sula.

And that’s why despite being Honduras’ star man, he wasn’t brought on until the 63rd minute.

Rueda also hooked Palma at half time in the return leg at Toluca, which is 2,600 metres above sea level.

The manager explained: “Luis had a hard time with altitude previously and it was always going to be hard for him here.

“Unfortunately, the full back had the better of him and we made a change because Mexico attacked us a lot on his wing.”

The change turned into a disaster for Honduras because his replacement, Juan Carlos Obregon was so impacted by the altitude, he needed oxygen on the pitch and had to be subbed off himself as Honduras crashed to a big defeat.

Luke McCowan’s move to Celtic in the summer is one that took the Parkhead support by surprise this summer.

Celtic were busy on transfer deadline day and the £1m capture of McCowan capped off a very good transfer window for Hoops boss, Brendan Rodgers.

Since then, McCowan has gone on and made an impact not only domestically but also in the Champions League with Celtic.

It seems that Dundee boss, Tony Docherty, is feeling the pain of losing McCowan to Celtic as he laments his current injury issues at Dens Park.

Luke McCowan ‘difficult to replace’ after big move from Dundee to Celtic

Docherty is looking ahead to Dundee’s fixture against Hibs on Saturday and speaking about losing two players to injury, the Dens Park gaffer shared how losing McCowan to Celtic has hit his team hard.

Docherty told The Courier, “On the back of losing my captain Joe Shaughnessy, my vice-captain Trevor Carson (both to injury) and then Luke (McCowan, to Celtic) – I’ve lost three captains. That’s difficult.

“Luke had a huge influence in the dressing room.

“It is difficult to replace that, but there are good, good ones there.

“The timing of it as well. At the start of the season we were absolutely flying, we’d scored the most goals in Scotland.

“Luke was a big part of that, so when you take that out of your team it’s hard to replace.”

What Dundee boss Tony Docherty has said about Celtic and Luke McCowan so far this season

Docherty is clearly hurting at losing a player of McCowan’s quality to Celtic but, to be fair to the Dundee gaffer, he has taken the loss well.

Docherty shared what he told the Dundee players after McCowan’s Celtic move as he credited his team for the part they played in getting the life-long Celtic supporter his dream move.

The Dundee boss also complimented Celtic after they beat his side 2-0 at Parkhead this season calling the Hoops a ‘top, top opponent’.

And Docherty even admitted that since moving to Celtic, McCowan has just got ‘better and better’ as he highlighted improvements in his movement and game intelligence.

There is little doubt that McCowan is going to be a big player for Celtic this season and the fans will be looking forward to watching him improve even more under Rodgers.

Celtic head to Tynecastle this week in what will be Brendan Rodgers’ first encounter with new Hearts manager Neil Critchley since his arrival in Gorgie.

Brendan Rodgers’ side looks to pick up where they left off before the international break, with tough challenges ahead in the congested fixture list heading into Christmas.

Although this will be Celtic’s first league clash with Hearts since Critchley’s appointment, Rodgers is familiar with the Englishman from his tenure at Liverpool.

Critchley worked in various roles in Liverpool’s youth set up in a seven-year stint in Merseyside before pursuing his own managerial career. It was here he grew an appreciation for Rodgers’ way of working.

Neil Critchley a fan of Brendan Rodgers after Liverpool link-up

The man in the Tynecastle dugout had glowing words of praise to give Rodgers from their time working together in Liverpool.

In a pre-match press conference before his Blackpool side played the Liverpool U23s in 2023, he spoke of his admiration.

Critchley said: “Brendan Rodgers and Jurgen Klopp were incredible at giving young players opportunities.”

He also drew similarities between his and the Celtic manager’s careers: “Brendan came through a similar pathway to me, in terms of his journey of working at U18s and U21s, so he was a believer of giving young players an opportunity.”

Critchley labelled the clear pathway to the first team set out by both Brendan Rodgers and Jurgen Klopp as “inspiring”.

“Brendan came through a similar pathway to me, in terms of his journey of working at U18s and U21s, so he was a believer of giving young players an opportunity.

“Jurgen carried that on. He always wanted to have the young academy players training with him, and some of them are now playing in the team.

“It was inspiring for the coaches to know there was an opportunity at such a fantastic football club in a period when they were so successful.

Rodgers and Critchley face off in Saturday’s league clash

Any pleasantries exchanged pre-match between the pair will surely be gone when the first whistle is blown at Tynecastle on Saturday night, with a highly charged game on the horizon.

The Celtic boss will be looking to avoid a similar result to the one the Hoops suffered in their last game in Gorgie which saw Celtic suffer a 2-0 defeat which was marred by refereeing controversy.

They face a Hearts side that sits 11th in the Scottish Premiership, having only won two games all season, and will be desperate to cause an upset to start clawing their way back up the table.

Heart Of Midlothian

20:45

Celtic

Celtic ran out comfortable 2-0 victors in the previous fixture at Celtic Park and Rodgers will be hoping to emulate that result against his old colleague in their first clash.

Celtic player reveals 2 approaches from Barcelona – Has major dream for future

Since Celtic trounced RB Leipzig 3-1 in the Champions League, Nicolas Kühn has been getting a vastly increased amount of attention in the German media.

That the 24-year-old scored two of those goals is obviously a big reason for that, however, that he’s got 10 goals and 11 assists for Celtic so far this season tells an even bigger story.

Kühn has made some interesting career choices, and there’s now a belief in Germany that the move to Celtic could turn out to be an inspired decision and lead the player to the German national side.

This week’s edition of SportBild has had a chat with the man of the moment, and he spoke about his dream to represent Germany at the 2026 World Cup.

Asked if manager Julian Nagelsmann has contacted him yet, the Celtic player said: “Unfortunately not yet. Every boy who plays football dreams of playing for the national team at some point. I have often said that the DFB team is a huge goal of mine.

“I know that I have the quality for the national team and make no secret of the fact that I dream of the 2026 World Cup in the USA. But there is no other way than to keep working hard, scoring goals and preparing. Then the rest will follow by itself.”

Asked about claims Barcelona have been interested in his development, Kühn said: “Yes, that’s true. Even before I moved to RB Leipzig’s boarding school at the age of 14, there was contact between Barça and my agent. And even before my time at Ajax Amsterdam (from 2018), they wanted to sign me. But I saw a better chance of making the breakthrough at Ajax.”

That was another good decision from Kühn, who will again be attracting interest from clubs if he continues the sparkling start to the season he’s had.

Should he achieve his goal of making it to the 2026 World Cup then Celtic will have a fight on their hands to keep him ahead of and beyond that tournament.

Luis Palma was the man of the moment for Honduras last week as the Celtic winger scored twice to sink Mexico in the CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final.

The 2-0 lead gave Palma’s Honduras a great chance of progressing to meet Alistair Johnston’s Canada in the semi-final after the Celtic winger was deadly against Mexico in the first leg.

Coming on as a substitute in that match, Palma scored with his first touch to put Honduras 1-0 up and then sealed the win with a late second goal to give Honduras a healthy advantage for the follow-up match in the Estadio Azteca.

However, after holding out for 42 minutes, Raul Jimenez opened the scoring before a late collapse saw Honduras concede a further three goals after Henry Martin (72 & 90+7) and Jorge Sanchez (85) sunk Palma and his teammates for the second year in a row.

Luis Palma’s lack of Celtic game time exposed for Honduras vs Mexico

After praising Palma for his first-leg Honduras performance, boss Reinaldo Rueda pointed the finger at the Celtic winger after he was exposed by the Mexicans as the weak link in the early morning defeat.

Rueda told Deportes TVC, “For all we know from the previous match at the Azteca, the altitude is hard for Luis when he comes with rhythm and today without rhythm it was going to be harder for him.

“He played a good half but the full-back he had overcame him and he was left alone with Rosales and that’s where Mexico attacked us a lot.

“We had Obregón, who is a striker, a goal scorer, and to stop that full-back and the offensive depth to accompany Yustin Arboleda, but unfortunately he didn’t get into the game and was unbalanced.”

Luis Palma’s Honduras stats have a familiar Celtic feel to them

Palma was hooked at halftime after being given the nod to start for Honduras against Mexico.

Rated at 6.2 by Fotmob, the Celtic winger was largely anonymous in the 45 minutes he was on the pitch.

With just 13 touches of the ball, Palma made just four passes with three of those finding a Honduran teammate.

However, defensively Palma won five duels, made one clearance and won two out of two tackles as he tried to keep the Mexicans at bay.

Unfortunately, the Celtic winger didn’t create any chances or had any shots on goal as Honduras crashed out of the CONCACAF Nations League at the same stage to the same team for the second season in a row.

Journalist Gives Update on Lennon Miller Situation Amid Celtic Interest

Mark Guidi has weighed in on the mounting speculation surrounding Motherwell’s young sensation, Lennon Miller, predicting a January move to Celtic for the highly-rated midfielder.

27th October 2024; Fir Park, Motherwell, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Motherwell versus Celtic; Lennon Miller of Motherwell shoots on goal

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Guidi detailed the significant interest in the 18-year-old from top clubs across Europe, but believes Celtic are best positioned to secure his signature.

Miller has been a standout performer in the Scottish Premiership, and with just 18 months remaining on his contract, Motherwell face a pivotal decision. Guidi suggests that a fee of £3-3.5 million, with potential add-ons, would represent a strong deal for the Steelmen while fitting comfortably within Celtic’s transfer strategy.

“I’m sure there is interest from Italy because they do their homework; they now scour this market, Mark Guidi told Go Radio.

“I know 100% there’s interest from Germany and Spain and obviously down south.

“I’ve no doubt that Celtic and Rangers will have registered an interest, I’ve no doubt about that. I’ve got a feeling he will end up at Celtic; I think he’s definitely going to go in January, and I think he’ll be sold in January because for Motherwell, he’s hot, and he might get hotter, but you need to be careful you don’t run the risk with 18 months on his deal.

“If they’ve got a concrete guaranteed £3 million-£3.5 million with the potential for a couple of million in add-ons here and there, Motherwell have got to take that. They’ve got to; Celtic can afford that kind of fee all day long. For me, longer-term, getting someone like Lennon Miller the way he looks just now, I think £3 million to £3.5 million with add-ons would be a bargain.

“Right now if you’re asking me, I said it on Thursday night, he’s going to have four or five really good options in January, I think he’ll end up at Celtic.”

If a January move materialises, the teenager would join an already impressive group of players making their mark under Brendan Rodgers.

However, Celtic’s midfield is already stacked. Summer signing Luke McCowan is struggling for minutes despite impressing since his arrival. Reo Hatate and Arne Engels seem to have the position locked down at the moment, with McGregor sitting behind them.

It could be an option for Celtic to sign the player and then loan him out so that he can continue his development and growth while still playing consistent minutes at a high level.

It will be interesting to see what Celtic do in regards to their interest in January.

‘I Couldn’t Have Imagined’ – Star Indicates Why Summer Celtic Move Didn’t Happen

Switzerland and Lorient goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo has indicated that the need to pay a transfer fee put Celtic and other clubs off signing him in over the summer transfer window.

Celtic needed to bring in a new goalkeeper in the summer after the retirement of Joe Hart and eventually ended up signing Kasper Schmeichel.

Swiss shot-stopper Mvogo was keen to move on from French side Lorient following their relegation from Ligue 1 and a host of sides were keen, including Manchester United.

No move happened though and the goalkeeper stayed at Lorient beyond the closure of the transfer window.

Celtic were linked with wanting Mvogo and the Switzerland international indicated that no move happened because clubs, including the Bhoys, did not want to pay a fee and he was under contract with Lorient.

“Yes, there were a lot of offers”, Mvogo told Swiss daily Blick when asked directly about offers from Celtic, Parma and Augsburg.

“They all came relatively early. At that point, I wanted to take my time with the decision.

“I couldn’t have imagined how difficult the market would be during the summer.

“Many clubs wanted free goalkeepers or ones that could be loaned out.

“But I had a contract with Lorient, which meant a transfer fee would have been due.”

Despite refusing to pay a transfer fee for the Swiss goalkeeper, the Bhoys ended up paying a club-record fee to sign Arne Engels from Augsburg.

Their work was made easier by the departure of Matt O’Riley to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Michael Stewart loved ‘incredible’ moment from Rangers ace this week as Celtic hero hails international class

The Rangers star has been praised by the outspoken pundit and a Celtic favourite.

Michael Stewart and a Celtic hero have been quick to praise a Rangers star after their colossal Scotland contributions.

John Souttar made big blocks and crossed brilliantly to set up the winner in a 2-1 win over Poland. It means Scotland avoid Nations League A Group 1 relegation and will have a play-off to fight for their survival in 2025.

Stewart was on commentary duty for Viaplay and was piling on the praise for Souttar, who’s become a key player at the back for national team head coach Steve Clarke. Upon a block made by the defender in the opening stages of the second half, the pundit said “John Souttar, what a block that is. That is quite incredible.”

Then on his match-winning cross, where he lifted a brilliant ball for Andy Robertson to head home, Stewart added: “What a ball from John Souttar. Another outstanding performance from the defender. What a header, what a goal, look at this ball from Souttar! Incredible stuff.”

John Collins was also quick to jump on the Souttar hype train, and hailed the Rangers star with one key word. Collins signed for Celtic in 1990, and was the club’s first million pound player. The midfielder went on to score 55 goals in 273 Celtic appearances. He added on Sportsound: “John Souttar looks like an international centre-back now.

“Clarke’s change of system has brought more freedom. The players look more comfortable in possession and they have more options in front of them. To win the game in that manner is the perfect end to the campaign.”

The international break always brings out some weird and wonderful content for the Celtic fans and they also get to know a bit about players they might not previously have known.

For example, earlier today 67 Hail Hail discussed how Alistair Johnston said tennis icon Roger Federer’s career reminds him of the pressures of playing for Celtic.

The Hoops defender was speaking about his sporting hero as he said the amount of travelling and pressure to always win that Federer had reminds has ‘correlations’ of Celtic about it.

And now, Johnston has shared how Celtic winger James Forrest made a claim about Scottish tennis legend, Andy Murray after the Celtic defender said he’s one of the best tennis players in the Hoops squad.

Celtic hero James Forrest claims he could ‘have replaced’ Andy Murray on the tennis circuit

Johnston told The Official Celtic FC Podcast [11m], “Apparently James Forrest, he always tells me that I hope with some tongue and cheek, that he thinks that he could have broken into the big four.

“He could have replaced Andy Murray if he’d stuck to tennis. And I said, ‘I’m not sure there’s too many top tennis players in the world of the height of five foot eight’. But actually, I think about [Diego] Schwarzman.

“But other than that, no, there’s not really a lot of small tennis players. So I take that with a pinch of salt. He always tries to bring that one up.

“It winds me up a little bit. It’s hard for me not to nibble on that one. But yeah, I’d like to think I’m one of the best ones on the team.

“Yeah, I’d say my level’s okay.”

The four Celtic appearances where James Forrest has been ace this season

Forrest has made 16 appearances for Celtic so far this season and whilst the legendary winger has contributed in all his outings, there are four standout fixtures where he has made a material difference.

Celtic 5 v 1 Slovan Bratislava. Coming on as a second half substitute, Forrest created the assist for Adam Idah’s goal.

Hibs 0 v 2 Celtic. Forrest creates Nicolas Kuhn’s opening goal in the 2-0 win in the captial.

St Mirren 0 v 3 Celtic. Once again James Forrest creates Celtic’s opening goal with an assist for Callum McGregor.

Celtic 2 v 0 Hearts: The Celtic winger creates Celtic’s second to wrap up three precious league points.

So whilst Forrest hasn’t been prolific in the goalscoring stakes, his contribution to the team in big games when it matters has been so crucial for Brendan Rodgers this season.

Elena Sadiku makes Celtic red card vow after mocking gesture in Rangers defeat

The Swede saw red on Sunday for sarcastic applause after she had already been booked by referee Jamie Wilkie following the award of a Rangers penalty

Celtic manager Elena Sadiku has said that her red card against Rangers on Sunday is the “first and last” of her managerial career.

The Swede was dismissed for sarcastic applause after she had already been booked by referee Jamie Wilkie following the award of a Rangers penalty. It consigned Sadiku to the stand for the remainder of a game that Celtic went on to lose. “It was the first. And my last,” she said. “I would like to not speak about it. It is what it was and it is not how I want to be perceived. I am never going to do it again.”

Sadiku has also insisted that she has not had to lift her players since Sunday’s defeat. They face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night as their mad schedule of games continues. And she believes the weekend defeat will act as motivation for the players to prove themselves.

“I think losing against Rangers and the way we did, I don’t think we felt that we were a bad team or anything like that,” she said. “It became the opposite. We became even more hungry and confident – I didn’t need to pick them up and the players are ready for this challenge now.”

Celtic are without a point in the Champions League so far following defeats to Twente, Real Madrid and Chelsea. The 2-1 defeat against the London club last week at Celtic Park has offered some encouragement to Sadiku.

“We have been growing into the competition,” she said. “Playing the way we did against Chelsea the last time will encourage us even more.

“What the players have learned the most has been to be braver in possession and that is something that we want to do again tonight. We will see how Chelsea line up but I think we know what to expect from them. But we want to do better and that is up to us.

“I know that Sonia [Bompastor] was not really happy with the performance in the last game and we were the happier of the teams. Chelsea will want to show what a good team they are.

“I think they may change some players and may change their shape. We are expecting a Chelsea side who want to prove that they are much better than us and obviously we are going to have the same mindset to produce another good performance.”

Rangers blow as £1.8m EBT recipient delivers great news for Celtic

Nicolas Kuhn of Celtic celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 match between Celtic FC and RB Leipzig at Celtic Park on November 05, 2024. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

You might remember Christian Nerlinger. He signed for Rangers from Borussia Dortmund in 2001 and stayed at Ibrox for three years, collecting an (ultimately unlawful) EBT payment of £1.8m from Sir(!) David Murray, presumably alongside his side-letter that never was disclosed to the Scottish FA…

David Murray (L). (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

16.09.2003 Photo: imago/Ulmer Stefan Klos and Christian Nerlinger (Glasgow Rangers); Champions League 2003/2004, Glasgow Rangers, Photo Randmotiv Personen

These days Christian Nerlinger is a football agent

These days Christian Nerlinger is a football agent and Celtic star Nicolas Kuhn is one of his prized assets or clients. Nerlinger has been speaking to Daily Record about the player amid speculation linking him with a big money move as one of the European football’s top performers this season, not only domestically but also in the Champions League.

Kuhn’s form has also attracted the attention of the Germany national team manager Julian Nagelsmann who this week admitted that the Celtic winger is very much on his radar.  For Nerlinger any speculation in not an issue and he predicts that in time Celtic will turn their £3m investment in Nicolas Kuhn back in January when he was signed from Rapid Vienna, into a £25m plus fee for the club’s latest hottest asset.

Nicolas Kuhn at Rugby Park. Photo Vagelis Georgariou for The Celtic Star

“We have found a home for Nicolas at Celtic”

“The speculation is not an issue for us. We have found a home for Nicolas at Celtic,” Nicolas Kuhn’s agent Christian Nerlinger said. “We are not, never, walking out on Celtic without being together with the club because this success story was created by Celtic.

“I know from my time at Rangers it was very hard to get something out of the television rights, so, of course, they need to find these success stories – identify a player, buy him for £3million and sell him for £20-£25million – but we will do everything together with the club.

“We are very grateful for how Brendan Rodgers developed the player,” Nerlinger said.

Nicolas Kuhn runs with the ball under pressure from Amadou Haidara of RB Leipzig during the UEFA Champions League match between Celtic FC and RB Leipzig at Celtic Park on November 05, 2024. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

“Nicolas feels the power of this club”

“Nicolas feels the power of this club. I was in the stadium against RB Leipzig and you see the quality of the team. I know that Nicolas has total confidence in Brendan Rodgers in developing him and making him a better player, and for me as a business partner I have total trust in Michael (Nicholson, Celtic CEO) so we will take this step by step.

“Perhaps at some point there will be movement, but we will not pressurise things. It’s a massive season and we are really relaxed. We are just happy that Nicolas is at the right point, at the right time with the right manager who develops him. We are really grateful for that.

Nicolas Kuhn celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25  match between Celtic FC and RB Leipzig at Celtic Park on November 05, 2024. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

“We are more than happy with him at Celtic”

“It’s a good team. He is enjoying the philosophy of the manager and is enjoying Glasgow. We are enjoying the kind of things that are happening with Celtic and for me he is just at the right point with the right people He feels totally comfortable.

“We are more than happy with him at Celtic but we will always work and cooperate with Celtic about what is the next step. It’s a very exciting time.”

Celtic in the Thirties by Matt Corr, Volumes One & Two, Published by Celtic Star Books, November 2024.

Matt Corr’s wonderful new books, Celtic in the Thirties, Volumes One & Two are both out now on Celtic Star Books and you can order a signed copies by clicking on the links below…

Nicolas Kühn’s agent breaks silence on winger’s future amid Premier League links

Nicolas Kuhn of Celtic celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 match between Celtic FC and RB Leipzig at Celtic Park on November 05, 2024.

Nicolas Kühn is loving life at Celtic and is not looking to leave any time soon, according to his agent Christian Nerlinger. Fulham and Brentford have recently been touted as being interested with the 24-year-old’s signature as he impresses for Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic side.

The ex-Rangers midfielder told Record Sport that Kühn has found a home at Celtic and that he will only depart when it suits both parties.

“The speculation is not an issue for us. We have found a home for Nicolas at Celtic.

Nicolas Kuhn at Rugby Park.  Vagelis Georgariou for The Celtic Star

“We are not, never, walking out on Celtic without being together with the club because this success story was created by Celtic.

“I know from my time at Rangers it was very hard to get something out of the television rights, so of course they need to find these success stories – identify a player, buy him for £3million and sell him for £20-£25million – but we will do everything together with the club.”

After signing from Rapid Vienna back in January, Kühn took some time to adapt but really hit the ground running this season. The German has scored ten goals and assisted on eleven occasions in all competitions, including a brace against RB Leipzig.

Kühn was identified and signed by Celtic as one of Europe’s top creators, fitting the profile as being a youthful attacker with promising room for development.

Kühn was recently name checked by Julian Naglesmann as a potential future call up for the German National Team.

“Kuhn is also a good player with a lot of desire. He’s someone we’re keeping an eye on.

A call up would be astonishing for Kühn and it would be affirming for his efforts so far this season. Moreover, it would reflect that Celtic can attract, develop and retain top talents.

As another SPFL club heads for administration, the SFA continues to allow the Ibrox side to trade whilst insolvent. Imagine if it was Celtic?

Only a few short weeks ago, despite the best efforts of the club’s supporters, Inverness Caledonian Thistle entered into administration.

As a result, many people, including the manager, lost their jobs.

They were also hit with a 15 point deduction.

Which resulted in them plummeting to the bottom of League 1.

Today, they have been replaced at the bottom of League 1 by Dumbarton FC.

Dumbarton is one of Scotland’s oldest clubs, and has been trading continuously since 1872.

This morning, it was announced that they have also entered administration.

Their points deduction has pushed them below ICT as it has completely wiped out their tally for the 2024/25 season to date.

Late yesterday evening, the Record reported that Dumbarton were likely to enter administration.

That was followed by a report in the Sun this afternoon, confirming the news that administration was a certainty.

It’s deeply concerning that two clubs in the SPFL have entered into administration in such a short space of time.

Yet despite what has happened to Dumbarton, nobody bats an eyelid when the Ibrox club reports losses exceeding £17 million.

That’s all fine and dandy.

One rule for them, but the SFA applies the letter of the law to every other club in Scottish football.

Now, in a normal footballing landscape, you would think that a club that has recorded losses in the hundreds of millions would be taken to task by their football association, wouldn’t you?

As clubs elsewhere in the Scottish League pyramid struggle with miniscule debts in comparison, are hit with points deductions, and all the sanctions that go with entering into administration.

But no, it’s fine for the Ibrox operation to trade whilst insolvent.

Because there’s no other description for that kind of reckless behaviour.

Shouldn’t the SFA be asking themselves why clubs like Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Dumbarton are struggling the way that they are?

Are they not concerned that the very existence of one of Scotland’s oldest footballing institutions is under threat?

Remember how massively concerned they were when another club founded in 1872 went to the wall 12 years ago?

Despite their best efforts, they couldn’t save that club either.

The question is, why are clubs like Dumbarton and ICT going to the wall?

Is it down to bad governance at club level?

Or is it down to bad governance at the SFA’s level?

Well, I suppose if you allow a convicted criminal to pass a fit and proper person test to become the chairman of a football club, then that gives you an indication of what goes on in the halls of the SFA.

The simple fact is that two SPFL clubs have gone into administration within weeks of each other.

That’s not a good look for Scottish football.

Nor is it a good look that one club is allowed to post tens of millions in losses.

While all of the rest try to work within the constraints of the rulebook.

How many more clubs are going to go to the wall before someone in the SFA steps up and asks what the hell is going on?

I’ll put it this way, just imagine if Celtic were operating as recklessly as the Ibrox club?

Do you think that we would be allowed to do so without facing any kind of sanctions?

Think again, I’d say.

The SFA would use every rule in the book to make an example of us.

We are blessed to have excellent corporate governance at Celtic Park.

And I know I call out the board more than most when I feel they can do better.

But I cannot flaw the way our club operates in comparison to the basket case across the city.

There is no comparison.

And thankfully, because of that, we’ll never come close to a situation like the one we found ourselves in on a cold and bitter January day in 1994.

It makes you wonder though, how long will it be before the Ibrox club is in that kind of position again?

Will they get their act together?

Or will they go all Gung-ho and bring Steven Gerrard back if Clement leaves for Belgium, as I alluded to in this morning’s article?

We all know that Gerrard is a chequebook manager.

We also know they’re in the kind of financial position they’re in now as a result of his previous spending.

With each passing day, the idea of Gerrard returning to Ibrox grows on me more and more.

They think he’s the answer to all of their problems over there.

When in fact, he could be the one cause of even more.

Oh please, oh please, bring him home.

That said, spare a thought for the supporters of Dumbarton on this dark day.

They definitely deserve our sympathy.

Celtic’s future transfer endeavours have received airtime over the international break and Lennon Miller has cropped up as a name to watch out for.

Continuing his superb form for Motherwell this term, the 18-year-old has registered four goals and three assists in 18 appearances across all competitions.

In light of his rise as one of the most exciting talents in the Scottish Premiership, there is no surprise that Celtic have become a player in the race for Lennon Miller as his deal at Fir Park ticks down.

According to reports last week, Celtic will need to pay £4 million to land Miller as suitors start to circle for his signature. Rangers are admirers, and Liverpool could also enter the picture.

With his future the talk of Scottish football, Mark Guidi has shed some further light on what is an evolving situation.

Mark Guidi shares Lennon Miller latest amid Celtic speculation

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Guidi has shared that he ‘100%’ knows that there will be interest from Germany and Spain in Miller, though he expects the Scotland Under-21 international to end up at Celtic.

He stated: “I’m sure there is interest from Italy because they do their homework; they now scour this market. I know 100% there’s interest from Germany and Spain and obviously down south.

“I’ve no doubt that Celtic and Rangers will have registered an interest, I’ve no doubt about that. I’ve got a feeling he will end up at Celtic; I think he’s definitely going to go in January, and I think he’ll be sold in January because for Motherwell, he’s hot, and he might get hotter, but you need to be careful you don’t run the risk with 18 months on his deal.

“If they’ve got a concrete guaranteed £3 million-£3.5 million with the potential for a couple of million in add-ons here and there, Motherwell have got to take that. They’ve got to; Celtic can afford that kind of fee all day long. For me, longer-term, getting someone like Lennon Miller the way he looks just now, I think £3 million to £3.5 million with add-ons would be a bargain.

“Right now if you’re asking me, I said it on Thursday night, he’s going to have four or five really good options in January, I think he’ll end up at Celtic.”

Lennon Miller would fit Celtic’s long-term vision

In the short-term, it would be hard to envisage Miller getting in front of the likes of Callum McGregor or Reo Hatate at Celtic, but looking to the future has to be an optimal stance for the Bhoys.

The club captain isn’t getting any younger despite his glowing performances this term, while potential transfer movement in the opposite direction could occur at some point further down the line.

Having the next star ready-made and in position to step in has to be the priority for Celtic, and Miller certainly fits that bill with the added carrot of being a homegrown talent.

Speculation surrounding his next move will continue to heat up over the next few months, so his situation is worth keeping an eye on for supporters.

Player admits that he spoke to Celtic this summer – “Was very sad” he couldn’t get transfer

Switzerland goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo has admitted he spoke to Celtic in the summer, before eventually remaining at FC Lorient.

Blick have an interview with the goalkeeper this week in which he discusses the various transfer options which he had on the table this summer, and those options included Celtic.

The 30-year-old found himself in an awkward position with the French side after they were relegated from Ligue 1 at the end of last season.

He made it clear he would like to depart and had offers on the table, with reports putting Celtic firmly in the mix for him.

They were said to have positioned themselves at the beginning of May, with reports after that claiming he had accepted an offer to join Brendan Rodgers’ side.

That was later denied, although interestingly in the same week that Celtic completed the signing of Kasper Schmeichel on a free transfer from RSC Anderlecht.

That removed their need for a new number one and a move for Mvogo, who eventually ended up staying at Lorient for this season.

He’s more than happy to admit there was an offer from Celtic, though, with Blick asking him directly about the Scottish champions, Parma and Augsburg.

“I’ll be honest, I was very sad about how things turned out,” he said.

“It wasn’t an easy time. I wanted to leave Lorient after relegation so that I could continue to compete and prove myself at the highest possible level. I knew it could be problematic if I played in the second division.

“Yes, there were a lot of offers. They all came relatively early. At this point I wanted to take some time with the decision. I had no idea how difficult the market would be during the summer.

“Many clubs then wanted free transfer goalies or those who could be borrowed. But I had a contract with Lorient, so a transfer fee would have been due.”

And that is perhaps why he didn’t end up at Celtic.

Kasper Schmeichel has become an almost instant fan favourite at Celtic after the Denmark international was signed to replace Joe Hart in the summer.

As one of 13 Celtic players currently on international duty, Schmeichel produced a wonder performance last night as the Hoops ‘keeper helped Denmark create history and qualify from the Nations League after a 0-0 draw with Serbia.

But it seems that Schmeichel is not without his critics in his homeland but after the Celtic star’s heroics for Denmark against Serbia, former professional players Mads Junker and David Nielsen have leapt to the defence of the 39-year-old after hearing what has been said about him recently.

Denmark can ‘count on’ Celtic ‘keeper Kasper Schmeichel after heroics vs Serbia in Nations League

Junker was capped for Denmark seven times between 2006-12 and played for Brondby, Vitesse Arnhem and Mechelen.

And when he heard people question whether or not Schmeichel should continue to be Denmark’s number one, Junker dismissed moved quickly to dismiss that opinion of the Celtic goalkeeper.

Junker told Sport TV2, ” I still don’t think there is anything to indicate that Schmeichel should not be our first goalkeeper. He comes into action early when he has an early save on Andrija Živković at the post.

“There is also one from Dusan Vlahović. I think that time and time again he shows the security that is needed down there. We can count on him to take the balls he has to take.

“There are a lot of finishes of them against Serbia that he always takes, so it’s hard to say it’s a dazzling game from Kasper Schmeichel. But he takes what comes.”

Kasper Schmeichel ‘so important’ to Denmark as Celtic hero impresses vs Serbia in Nations League

David Nielsen never managed to earn a full international cap for Denmark despite appearing 50 times from the U16-U21 level.

His playing career stretched from almost 20 years playing in Sweden, England and Denmark coupled with a 13-year career in management and even he wasn’t having any of the ‘ridiculous’ chat about the Celtic goalkeeper.

Nielsen added, “It is too ridiculous that we have to stand and spend time discussing who should be in the goal for Denmark.

“It will be Kasper who will be standing. As long as he is fit, he will be our goalkeeper, and he will be until the World Cup in 2026. Then we don’t have to ask about it anymore. I’ve seen our team stand with a different goalkeeper once, and we didn’t look like ourselves.

“He is so important to have standing down there in relation to communication. The fact that we can change that backline and that they succeed, it’s because there is someone down there and communicating.

“And no one hears or talks about that afterwards. But his communication and the way he is in his body language, it helps these players to play the game, and when you as a back line make a clean sheet, you don’t do that without a good goalkeeper.”

With the Nations League quarter-finals set to take place in March next year, if Schmeichel continues his impressive form for Celtic both domestically and in the Champions League it would be very difficult for anyone in Denmark to deny him the No 1 international jersey

Everyone and anyone seems to have had their say on how serious Aberdeen’s challenge is.

Are they in a title race with Celtic? Or is second all they can realistically achieve? Can they even do that?

There seems to have been a range of opinions between all three of these points as a series of former players and pundits give their take.

For Pittodrie boss Jimmy Thelin not of that matters right now as he tries to ensure his players and staff simply focus on the job at hand.

12 May 1990: Brian Irvine of Aberdeen celebrates after he scores the winning penalty during the Scottish Cup Final against Celtic at Hampden Park …

Aberdeen can compete with Celtic

Brian Irvine knows all about going head to head with the clubs from Glasgow in the red of Aberdeen.

A cup double-winning centre half with the Dons in the early 90s, Irvine scored the winning penalty in a shootout victory over the Hoops to seal the second part of that, the Scottish Cup.

He also finished runner up in the Scottish top flight with the club five times, so knows all about ‘splitting the Old Firm’.

But he insists it is very difficult to predict what will happen with the current squad after their flying unbeaten start to the season. He does think the question over whether they can do what he did and split the Glasgow clubs is already redundant though.

Speaking exclusively to Not the Old Firm, the ex-Pittodrie defender said: “I don’t know what they’ll do. I think the main thing is just to enjoy while the team are doing well.

“Celtic are obviously a good team and they’re not going to suddenly become a bad team. There is competition there with Aberdeen with the two teams right up clear of Rangers. I think the question ‘can we split the Old Firm’… we’ve done that already.

“Rangers have got too big a gap to catch up overnight with us, so we’ve split them. Whether we’ve got enough to win the league time will tell, but just enjoy it while things are going well.”

Aberdeen managed a 2-2 away draw against the champions in the league already this season but the next time they met they were crushed 6-0 at Hampden in a Premier Sports Cup semi-final.

That obviously has no bearing on league prospects but Irvine answered whether it could have a psychological impact.

“The next game against Celtic will be a test,” he said. “It will be at Pittodrie which is a bonus. The team can play well at Pittodrie which is a fortress this season.

“Celtic are a really good team and you can’t take that away from them but you’ve got to compete and without a doubt we can compete.

“The next game being at Pittodrie gives us a really good chance to react to that defeat. Even though it was a heavy defeat there was no difference from a 1-0 defeat, you’re still out the cup.

“So there was no damage to the league position and it was just a cup knockout in the semi-final, which was no disgrace. When it gets to that stage it’s just who does well on the day.

“I know in my experience, I think we lost 5-0 once at Parkhead and in the next game without a doubt it’s in the back of your mind.”

Three key Aberdeen players

Irvine still does some ambassadorial work for Aberdeen and gets along to plenty of the games.

Like all of the Red Army, he has been enjoying watching the team play this season.

But he has picked out three who will be key to their ongoing prospects.

Asked if there were any standouts, he said: “Yeah, the goalkeeper (Dimitar Mitov).

“He’s made crucial penalty saves which…the Ross County one was a three-pointer and then against Dundee was a crucial save. So yeah the goalkeeper has been influential.

“I think the manager has made good signings that have played their part so the recruitment has been fantastic.

“Even Kevin Nisbet, his goals have been important. The £6.8million for Miovski that’s just money in the bank because we haven’t missed him for a minute.

“There’s a whole mix in there – stability, defensive solidness, good activity in the midfield with Shinnie driving on the team. And they’ve got the forwards to score goals.”