See Team’s Up – Brendan makes five changes for Celtic v Hibs

See Team’s Up – Brendan makes five changes for Celtic v Hibs

Brendan Rodgers has named his Celtic team for this afternoon’s Scottish Premiership clash against Hibs. The manager has made five changes from the side that beat Aberdeen at Pittodrie on Wednesday.

Alex Valle, Kyogo, Paulo Bernardo, Reo Hatate and Cameron Carter-Vickers all drop to the bench with Greg Taylor, Adam Idah, Arne Engels, Luke McCowan and Liam Scales coming into the team.

Kasper Schmeichel starts in goals.

A backline of Alistair Johnston, Auston Trusty, Liam Scales and Greg Taylor starts. CCV drops to the bench in a move that is expected to manage the central defender’s game time.

Callum McGregor starts alongside Luke McCowan and Arne Engels.

In attack, Adam Idah starts through the middle with Nicolas Kühn and Daizen Maeda.

Subs: Sinisalo, Kyogo, Valle, Yang, CCV, Bernardo, Forrest, Hatate and Ralston

Born just as Celtic were stopping the Ten, Lubo98 follows Celtic home and away and helps run his local Celtic Supporters Club. He goes to all the games and is a Law Graduate. Has a particular fondness for Tom Rogic among the current Celts and both Lubo and Henrik form his earliest Celtic memories.

Working Full strength Celtic the Order of the Day at Paradise

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers during the Scottish Premiership match between Aberdeen and Celtic at Pittodrie Stadium, on 4th December 2024. Photo Mark Runnacles Shutterstock

Will we see some rotation today? I doubt it. For me a full strength side is required…

4th December 2024; Pittodrie, Scottish Premiership, Aberdeen versus Celtic; Paulo Bernardo of Celtic on the ball. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

Brendan Rodgers recently spoke of how squad rotation has been a big factor in our success so far this campaign, and he is perfectly correct about that. Last week we made six changes against Ross County and we still comfortably won the game which helped us massively with the midweek trip to Pittodrie as our freshened side narrowly won the game to go clear at the top.

A tough trip to Zagreb 

With a tough trip to Zagreb looming on Tuesday night and of course the small matter of a Premier Sports League cup final next week, will we see a similar amount of changes for today’s clash against Hibs at Celtic Park?

4th December 2024; Pittodrie, Aberdeen, ; Scottish Premiership Football, Aberdeen versus Celtic; Cameron Carter-Vickers of Celtic on the ball. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

I seriously doubt it as despite the Edinburgh sides league position, they will prove a tough nut to crack especially after their 3-0 victory at Fir park last week.

Important to keep the feel good factor going

Brendan will want a good result to send us to Zagreb high in confidence, and keep the feel good factor going with the first trophy of the season up for grabs next Sunday. So for me it will require a full strength side to get the three points today, and give us some confidence for the next week ahead.

Exclusive News: Handshakes all round – Scottish FA gives Beaton Hampden whistle, Alan Muir is VAR

John Beaton has been appointed as referee for the Premier Sports League Cup final between Celtic and theRangers next Sunday…

19th December 2021; Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland; Scottish League Cup final, Hibernian versus Celtic: Referee John Beaton

The Scottish FA has confirmed that the 42 year-old whistler will take charge of his fifth domestic cup final of his career when the two sides battle it out for the first trophy of the season at Hampden Park next weekend.

Beaton seems to get Glasgow Derbies 

Beaton has only refereed one Celtic game this season and that came at Paradise when the Hoops hammered theRangers 3-0 in September courtesy of Daizen Maeda, Kyogo and Callum McGregor. Therefore, it is unfamiliar to see the same referee appointed for a Glasgow Derby match two games running.

Last season, the man in the middle for next Sunday’s showpiece final overseen Celtic’s pulsating 3-3 draw with theRangers at Ibrox back in April.

Fabio Silva dives inside the Celtic penalty area and cons a penalty from Alistair Johnston, referee John Beaton initially booked Silva for simulation but reversed the yellow card and awarded theRangers a penalty kick after a VAR sent an edited clip for review. Photo Stuart Wallace/Shutterstock

Despite the praise Beaton received after the game for his performance from pundits, he was sent to the VAR monitor on three occasions for two penalty incidents and a disallowed goal.

The experienced official has been taken charge of 18 games during this campaign. Across six different competitions which includes Europa League and Europa Conference League group stage encounters, Beaton has produced 90 yellow cards and had two sending off offences.

Brendan Rodgers’ Hampden record 

Meanwhile, Brendan Rodgers will be aiming to maintain his 100% record at Hampden and make it a lucky number 13th victory as Celtic boss across his two spells at the national stadium.

Brendan Rodgers and Callum McGregor with the Scottish Cup on 25 May 2024, after Celtic’s 1-0 win over theRangers in the final at Hampden Park. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

Phillipe Clement’s side are the defending League Cup champions as theRangers picked up their only trophy last season in this with a narrow 1-0 win against Barry Robson’s Aberdeen a year ago.

Having won a double last season, Rodgers’ men will be hoping to go one step further this campaign and lift an historic ninth Treble. Reclaiming the League Cup would be the first step of proclaiming ultimate domestic superiority once more.

Alan Muir will be on VAR duties 

Assisting John Beaton onfield for next Sunday’s Scottish League Cup clash is AR1 David McGeachie and AR2 Jonathan Bell. Steven McLean will take the role as Fourth Official.

Alan Muir points to the centre spot to award a Hearts goal after a VAR check for possible offside during the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Hearts at Celtic Park on March 08, 2023. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Manning VAR at Clydesdale House will be Alan Muir, whilst Frank Connor has been appointed to AVAR duties.

Conor Beaton

Here’s Brendan’s media conference from Celtic TV ahead of today’s match against Hibs at Celtic Park…

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

What Chris Sutton Tells Brendan Rodgers to Resolve Issue with Celtic Star

Chris Sutton has called on Celtic to resolve Greg Taylor’s contract issue, urging the club to retain the left-back, who he believes continues to play a pivotal role for the team.

23rd November 2024; Tynecastle Park, Edinburgh, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Hearts versus Celtic; Greg Taylor of Celtic

Writing in his Daily Record column, Sutton defended Taylor against what he described as “undeserved stick” from a section of the support and highlighted the defender’s importance to Brendan Rodgers’ system.

Taylor’s assist for Reo Hatate’s winner against Aberdeen in Celtic’s 1-0 victory at Pittodrie was the latest example of his value to the team. Despite losing his starting place to Alex Valle in Pittodrie, Taylor’s second-half introduction proved decisive, with Sutton noting his seamless ability to adapt to Celtic’s inverted full-back role.

He wrote: “Then there was Greg Taylor. Alex Valle kept his place in the side at his expense but there’s no doubt it’s Taylor who is more comfortable in that inverted full back role.

“Valle had some moments in the first half but Taylor really helped to get to grips with the game in the second and then he popped up with the crucial assist for the winner. I would like to see him sign a new deal at Celtic. Taylor gets some undeserved stick at times from a section of the support and, okay, there are moments when the Champions League can be a stretch for him.

“But he’s not alone in that and he’s more than shown over the years he’s a valuable member of the team and the squad. I don’t know if he’s holding out for more money or he fancies a change in scenery. But do know he’s worth keeping around – even if Rodgers does target new signings in that position.”

Taylor’s current contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and with January fast approaching, the Scotland international will soon be eligible to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with other clubs.

The lack of clarity over his future is a growing concern for supporters, particularly given his consistent contributions and experience.

Brendan Rodgers has publicly praised Taylor’s adaptability and professionalism, saying that the club would like to extend his stay. However, the emergence of Alex Valle, currently on loan from Barcelona, and ongoing speculation about Celtic’s interest in other left-backs have created uncertainty over Taylor’s role moving forward.

Celtic must act swiftly to avoid losing Taylor on a free transfer

News On Point, What might have been for Paddy Roberts, missing out on Celtic legendary 

Paddy Roberts scores for Celtic.Man City v Celtic, 6 December 2016, Photo Vagelis Georgariou

Paddy Roberts, a superb player who could’ve been so much more…

Paddy Roberts scores. Motherwell 3 Celtic 4 at Fir Park on 3 December 2016. Photo by Vagelis Georgariou for The Celtic Star

Eight years ago today

Eight years ago today we earned a respectable draw at the Etihad against Manchester City in the champions league group stages.

The scorer of our goal in the 3rd minute was Paddy Roberts who also happened to be on loan from City, and he showed his parent club what they were missing by not only scoring, but impressing in the game as a whole.

Paddy unfortunately returned to City in 2018 after a two and a half year loan spell at Celtic.

A real crowd pleaser

Those two and a half years were a very successful time for Paddy as he contributed to our overall success by putting in a number of impressive performances. He really was a fans favourite due to his ability and he was a real crowd pleaser.

James Forrest and Paddy Roberts at Rugby Park on 18 November 2016, Kilmarnock 0 Celtic 1. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

Paddy for some reason never signed for the club permanently, and whether that was down to the player himself or the club not meeting financial demands remains a mystery, but what we do know, is that he was a class act as a footballer.

Paddy would remain contracted to Man City but would go on various loan spells to clubs such as Girona, Norwich, Middlesbrough, Derby and Troyes before finally joining Sunderland on a permanent deal in 2022, the club he still plays for presently.

Starring for Sunderland 

Paddy has made over 100 appearances for the Black Cats and is pretty much a regular fixture in the championship side, but his talent deserved to be recognised at a much higher level. He could have been so much more, he could have become a Celtic legend. It’s a shame really.

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

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

Celtic’s Great Dane Kasper Schmeichel is older than the man he replaced, but veteran goalkeeper’s acquisition looks shrewder with each passing game – Report

Manager Brendan Rodgers hails Premier League winner’s impact

Keeper backed to feature for Denmark at 2026 World Cup 

When Celtic signed Kasper Schmeichel on a one-year deal in the summer, some questioned the wisdom of recruiting a goalkeeper who was only a few months shy of his 38th birthday.

Schmeichel is five months older than his predecessor Joe Hart, who chose to retire at the end of last season.

There was a feeling that he may prove to be little more than a stop-gap signing. Yet, as we approach the turn of the year, his acquisition looks to be an increasingly shrewd move.

Another shut-out in the 1-0 win at Aberdeen in midweek means the Danish international has now kept 11 clean sheets in 14 league matches for Celtic so far this season.

Brendan Rodgers’ side have only conceded four goals in those 14 games and are on track to break various defensive and clean-sheet records.

Certainly, the prospect of Schmeichel’s deal being a one-and-done type looks increasingly unlikely.

Kasper Schmeichel has kept 11 clean sheets in 14 Premiership appearances this season

Brendan Rodgers has been thrilled with the Dane’s impact since signing in the summer

Reo Hatate’s winner against Aberdeen midweek sent Celtic seven points clear at the top

With the option of extending his contract for another year, Rodgers insists the veteran still has plenty of gas left in the tank.

And, alongside the opportunity to reach another World Cup with Denmark in 2026, Rodgers believes there’s no prospect of Schmeichel calling it a day any time soon.

‘Kasper has been massive for us,’ said the Celtic boss, who also worked with Schmeichel at Leicester. ‘A game like that the other night against Aberdeen, that’s where his style comes in, in those pressure moments.

‘The ball goes back to him, especially in conditions like that, some goalkeepers might not be as comfortable.

‘So they can end up just defending it and going long too early. And then it comes right back at you. But he brings the calmness.

‘I’ve worked with him a long time. I know his quality. He’s a world-class shot-stopper. He’s great with his feet. His authority in the game is superb.

‘His handling is so clean. Just his whole presence and personality. I’m really happy for him. That has always been his ambition to continue playing for as long as possible. I first met him in 2019 in Leicester.

‘His hunger and drive and desire. He’s like a young guy, 15 years younger than what he is. He has so much enthusiasm for the game and so much enthusiasm for goalkeeping as well.

Rodgers picked up November’s Premiership Manager of the Month Award

‘To throw himself about like he does every single day. I really have big respect for him.

‘He’s obviously got his own personal targets in terms of if he can get to another World Cup.

‘But I just know that he’s loved his life here. He’s enjoyed his life. Thankfully, he’s performing at a very high level for us.’

The victory at Aberdeen saw Celtic open up a seven-point lead at the top of the table while also still having a game in hand.

In what looks to be a huge week in their season, they face Hibs at Parkhead this afternoon before travelling to face Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League on Tuesday. Victory against the Croatians would go a long way to securing a place in the knockout stages.

Celtic will then return home to face Rangers in the League Cup final at Hampden next Sunday, looking to tick off the first part of what supporters hope will be another Treble season under Rodgers.

The Northern Irishman, who was yesterday named Premiership Manager of the Month for November, is pleased with the way his team are digging deep and finding different ways to win.

‘The award is a collective thing for all of us,’ he said.

Celtic are preparing to take on a resurgent Hibernian side at Parkhead this weekend

‘What’s been so pleasing over the course of the season has been the variety of ways in which we can win.

‘That’s always important as a team. Our ethos here and our idea and our style is always to play fast, aggressive attacking football, always with technical discipline.

‘So that’s our idea and you’ll have seen a number of games this season where we’ve seen that identity of the team.

‘But you also have to respect that other teams aren’t going to allow you to do that all the time, and they’re going to come and make it difficult for you.

‘Like Aberdeen, who have done really well this season. They were really compact, and tight, they broke the game up, so you don’t quite have your flow.

‘So you then have to still persist in your work, trust your possession, trust the speed of your game in horrendous weather conditions and then look for those moments, which may only be few and far between. But you have to try to find them and that’s what we’ve done.’

On the prospect of facing David Gray’s Hibs, Rodgers added: ‘Hibs are a big club, they expect to be up challenging at the top.

‘David’s the perfect guy to help them get there. It just sometimes takes that little bit of time to get going.’

Celtic defender’s surprise at FIFA honor, as texts had him ‘thinking the worst’

graeme mcgarry

Alistair Johnston says he was shocked but honoured to be included in the long list for inclusion in the FIFA ‘Best XI’ (Image: Steve Welsh – PA)

When news broke that Alistair Johnston had been named alongside the likes of Ruben Dias and Antonio Rudiger on the long list of defenders in contention to be included in the FIFA ‘Best XI’, it was a heart stopping moment for the Celtic defender in more ways than one.

Initially, he was rather mystified and more than a little alarmed as he woke to a deluge of messages from his family back home in Canada, fearing that something horrible must have happened.

Thankfully, that turned out not to be the case, but while the news was in fact very good, he remained rather mystified by it, nonetheless.

The modest full back is over the moon though to have been included alongside such stellar company, a recognition for his fine form for both club and country over the past 12 months. Even if he may have appreciated a little heads’ up ahead of the news breaking.

“I just woke up and I had a couple of messages from people that don’t normally message me,” Johnston said.

“My aunts, uncles. I thought what in the world’s going on? I thought something had happened. And obviously you think the worst, you’re waking up and you click on a photo and you see, oh, you’re on a long list for the Best Eleven. And you’re like, okay, well that was…the heartbeat slowed down a little bit there because I was actually fearing the worst.

“But no, it’s a weird thing. You would think that maybe they’d call your agent and pass it through the grapevine a little bit. But no, it’s right on the social media. And that’s how you kind of find out. It’s funny. It’s a great accolade.

“It was something I wasn’t expecting, but obviously a pleasant surprise. You look at the list of players that are on that, it’s a pretty special list.

“To think that I’m even a name that was even thought of for that was obviously a nice honour for myself. You don’t really play for the personal awards. Obviously, we always play for the trophies in the team aspect.

“That’s one that I think is more important for my dad and my family back home. He’ll be probably dropping that one in on trivia night at the pub. So, it’s good that he’ll have that one in the back pocket.

“But yeah, it was a pretty cool thing to wake up to one morning to see that. It was a very good calendar year for myself. Both off the field and on the field. So no, it is nice to get some recognition for that.

“But at the same time, I’m not really too worried about those kind of things. We’re just focused on, again, the next match, lifting up trophies here. Those kind of things go hand in hand.

“It’s what I’ve learned since I’ve been here. And you just focus on doing the little things, doing the little things right and being a good professional. Then, yeah, you might end up falling into a list like that somehow.

“So, it was a nice little touch.”

Celtic and Johnston kick off a massive week with a home match against Hibernian today before a trip to face Dinamo Zagreb in a crucial Champions League tie, before the League Cup final against Rangers next weekend.

“Every week’s a big week here, it feels like,” he said.

“Hibs, not going to be an easy test at Celtic Park, we’re ready for a tough game. They’ve obviously had an uptick in form since they got back from the international break and we’re expecting to see a couple of different things and we’re looking forward to that challenge.

“And then after that, Zagreb away, another massive Champions League match where we have a chance to put some, hopefully, points on the board which would take us one step closer to the knockout stage.

“And then obviously after that, a cup final, a chance for a trophy, which is why you come to Celtic to play in matches like that.

“So yeah, it is a big week.”

(Image: Steve Welsh – PA) Johnston is especially looking forward to locking horns with international teammate Junior Hoilett this afternoon, particularly as he has something of a score to settle with the attacker.

“He’s an unbelievable footballer,” he said.

“Obviously he doesn’t maybe have the legs that he used to have from five years ago, but in tight spaces he’s a joyous footballer.

“And he gave me a right doing in the cup semi-final against Aberdeen last year! So he hasn’t let me live that one down and I haven’t forgotten that one either. But no, he’s a top player and always whenever we play small-sided at national team he’s one of the first picks.

“He’s so good in his space. So he’s someone that we’re going to have to really be aware of, especially if they play in between the lines, which we might see.

“So yeah, we’re expecting a good match

Report: “The team has performed fantastically well,” Brendan Rodgers

4th December 2024; Pittodrie; Scottish Premiership, Aberdeen versus Celtic; Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers celebrates the win. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

Earlier today we covered the off the park aspects of Brendan Rodgers’ media conference ahead of the match against Hibs, leaving the football questions and answers for a second article which you can read HERE…

Brendan Rodgers named Scottish Premiership manager of the month for November. Image SPFL

Manager of the Month for November

On being named Manager of the Month for November, a delighted Brendan had this to say: “Well, a real collective effort by everyone, so the team has performed fantastically well, and all the staff have been really supportive, so yeah, on to the next game.

4th December 2024; Pittodrie, Aberdeen, Scottish Premiership, Aberdeen versus Celtic; Alistair Johnston in action. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

On Alistair Johnston comments about wins like the one on Wednesday night at Pittodrie being the one that win league titles, Brendan has this to say. “Well, I think that what has been so pleasing over the course of the season has been the variety of ways in which we can win. I think that’s always important as a team. I think our ethos here and our idea and our style is always to play fast, aggressive attacking football, always with technical discipline.

“We’ve seen that identity of the team”

“So that’s our idea and you’ll have seen numbers of games this season where we’ve seen that identity of the team. But you also have to respect that other teams aren’t going to allow you to do that all the time and they’re going to come and make it difficult for you.

Reo Hatate is brought down. 4th December 2024; Pittodrie, Scottish Premiership, Aberdeen versus Celtic. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

“Like Aberdeen, who have done really well this season. They were really compact, and tight, they broke the game up, so you don’t quite have your flow. So you then have to still persist in your work, trust your possession, trust the speed of your game in horrendous weather conditions and then look for those moments, which may only be few and far between. But you have to try to find them and that’s what we’ve done.

“The real pleasing aspect of our victories”

“So I think over the course of the season, that’s been the real pleasing aspect of our victories and wins and none better than, like you say, the game the other night to demonstrate that.”

Next the Celtic manager was asked about the excitement of the next three days over the next week (Hibs in the league, Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League and theRangers in the Premier Sports League Cup Final). Brendan was having none of that.

4th December 2024; Pittodrie, Aberdeen, ; Scottish Premiership , Aberdeen versus Celtic; Callum McGregor in action .Photo Vagelis Georgariou

He replied: “Well, the focus is tomorrow, I think that was clearly on the mind after Aberdeen. Get back, recover and then look to bring our game and be really proactive in the game tomorrow. So I’m looking forward to it, we love playing at home, we love the energy. Our last home game, we were absolutely brilliant. Our idea is to bring a similar game and that’s something I’m excited about.”

Brendan was then asked about the job David Gray has done at Hibs as he seems to have turned things around after a difficult period.

Sleepless nights

“Yeah, well I’m delighted for David, you get that first win. When you’re young as a manager and you’re into the sleepless nights and you’re thinking of everything. I think they’ve been unfortunate in some games where they haven’t picked up the result earlier. But obviously, the point that they got against Aberdeen will have helped confidence to come back later on. And then to get that victory against Motherwell, it certainly makes the food taste nicer on a Saturday night,” Brendan noted.

4th December 2024; Pittodrie; Scottish Premiership, Aberdeen versus Celtic; Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers celebrates the win. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

“So yeah, I’m happy for him that he gets the win and he will look to obviously build on that. It’s a big club Hibs, they expect to be up-challenging at the top. And like I said, David’s the perfect guy to help them get there. It’s just sometimes it takes that little bit of time to get going.”

Brendan was then asked about the cushion at the top of the league giving him the opportunity to utilise the full squad with the trip to Zagreb and the cup final in mind.

“Whatever team will send out for tomorrow is out to attack the game”

“Not really,” Brendan replied. “We were doing that anyway. So I think for me, it’s just about obviously using the squad. I have total trust in the group of players to play. So whatever team will send out for tomorrow is out to attack the game.”

Perhaps he would have a job on his hand making the team focus on the Hibs game with minds drifting to what comes next…

Liam Scales celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic FC and Ross County FC at Celtic Park on November 30, 2024. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

“So you have to plan forward”

“Not really (again)” Brendan said. “Listen, I’m not going to sit here and say you don’t think ahead. Of course you do, that’s the nature of my job. I have to plan forward, of course. But always, you have to look to the next game as your priority. You need to understand what it is you’re thinking about for playing the Zagreb game like I was when we had Ross County, but we had Aberdeen. So you have to plan forward.

Luke McCowan celebrates scoring the second goal during the Celtic v Ross County Scottish Premiership match at Celtic Park on Saturday November 30, 2024. Photo Steve Welsh

“But that’s an exciting part of the job. It’s absolutely brilliant. I’ve got a great group of players that are hungry, that are ambitious, and they all want to play, which is great. If they don’t, they respect whoever’s playing, they look after their colleagues and then we’re all in to get the result.”

No injuries to worry about 

Asked if the squad had any injury concerns after the gam at Aberdeen, it was good news from the gaffer. “No, we’re all good. We’re in a really, really good place. And I think that is also part of the rotation. I think what enables us to do that, that sometimes if you don’t have the knock-on effect if you don’t have the depth of squad and the strength in your squad, you’re maybe having to play players for 90 plus minutes, three times a week, playing them all the time, which is then you have a greater risk of injury.

“What we’ve been able to do is manage the minutes of the players. And where there has been maybe a little niggle, we can then take someone out. Or if someone has played a lot more minutes, then we have that possibility to take them out. That’s the benefit of having a depth of squad. So I’ve really enjoyed that aspect of it, picking the teams to put out and giving that opportunity for someone to have some breathing space. It also can depend on the game that you’re playing and what it is you want from the game. That will decide who plays also.

Aberdeen v Celtic, 4th December 2024; Pittodrie Stadium, Scottish Premiership Aberdeen versus Celtic; Kasper Schmeichel of Celtic looks to clear long upfield. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

Manager’s thoughts of Kasper Schmeichel

Next Brendan was asked for his thoughts of Kasper Schmeichel and his influence on the team, especially on such a tricky night as Wednesday at Pittodrie.

“He’s been massive for us. Like I say, a game like that, they’re the night. It’s where his style of work fits in – his style and that’s where it comes into play – those pressure moments. The ball goes back, especially in conditions like that there. Goalkeepers or some might not be as comfortable. So they then can end up just defending it and going long too early. And then it comes right back at you. But he brings the calmness.

“As I said, I’ve worked with him a long time. I know his quality. He’s a world-class shot-stopper. He’s great with his feet. His authority in the game is superb. Like you say, his handling is so clean. So he’s been massive for us. Just his whole presence and personality. I’m really happy for him,” Brendan said.

Kasper Schmeichel speaks to his teammates during the UEFA Champions League match between Celtic FC and Club Brugge KV at Celtic Park on November 27, 2024. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

“That has always been his ambition”

On Kasper continuing beyond this season, Brendan reckons that will happen as the Great Dane wants to keep playing. “Yeah, that has always been his ambition. I first met him back in 2019 in Leicester. His hunger and drive and desire. He’s like a young guy, 15 years younger than what he is. He has so much enthusiasm for the game and so much enthusiasm for goalkeeping as well. To throw himself about like he does every single day. I really have a big respect for him.

He’s obviously got his own personal targets in terms of if he can get a World Cup, which he will hope to be at. But I just know that he’s loved his life here. He’s enjoyed his life. Thankfully, he’s performing at a very high level for us.”

Kasper Schmeichel. Hearts v Celtic, 23 November 2024. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

Cameron Carter-Vickers

Finally Brendan was asked just pleased he was for Cameron Carter-Vickers coming up with that massive moment in that game after probably his first mistake in the Brugge game?

“Yeah, I said to him – he and Auston set that up quite well! They made themselves look heroic!

“He’s a brilliant player for us”

“He’s a brilliant player for us. He’s got such authority in the game. Firstly, he’s defending. He’s defending strong. He’s good in duels. He reads the game. He’s brave. You go to war with him, he’s such a strong character. Mentally tough. But then he can play. He can play football. He can pass. He knows these lines of pass. He organises the line well. He’s a big, big player for us. As you say, when you see it back, he’s anticipated and reacted to Auston’s touch and just gets an absolutely critical block on it. That’s what you get from your big players, big moments.”

Celtic vs Hibs weather warning as Storm Darragh to hit Glasgow

A weather warning has been issued for Glasgow ahead of Celtic vs Hibs (Image: SNS/Met Office)

The Met Office have issued a yellow weather warning for rain ahead of the match between Celtic and Hibernian.

Forecasts are predicting heavy rainfall overnight and into Saturday morning as Storm Darragh hits the UK.

Celtic host Hibs in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday with the match being played at Parkhead.

Yellow warning of rain affecting Strathclyde

— Met Office – Strathclyde (@metofficeWScot) December 5, 2024

Glasgow is within the yellow weather warning zone with much of Scotland to be impacted by the downpour overnight.

The Met Office have warned of travel disruption as a result of the adverse weather conditions with 20-30mm of rainfall expected.

That increases to 50-60mm of rainfall on higher ground throughout large chunks of Scotland.

Rain is forecast to stop at 12pm ahead of the 3pm kick-off in Glasgow.

As it stands there have been no concerns raised over the match. However, fans should note potential impact to public travel due to the conditions.

The weather warning comes just weeks after Storm Bert caused chaos on an SPFL matchday.

A number of fixtures were postponed due to the frozen conditions with snow falling overnight and leading to the delay of kick-off at various matches in the top-flight.

Potential postponement of Celtic vs. Hibs due to Storm Darragh fears

Brentford and Brighton in ‘close contact’ with £3m Celtic star that could leave for five times the price

Celtic could be forced to part ways with one of their prized assets in January

Brentford and Brighton & Hove Albion are believed to be in talks to sign highly-rated Celtic winger Nicolas Kuhn in the January transfer window.

The Hoops are flying high at the top of the Scottish Premiership table and Kuhn has been central to the team’s early success with five goals and six assists from 12 league appearances this season.
The former German Under-21 international is at the top of his game at this moment in time and has been a catalyst for Celtic’s impressive form in Europe, with a further two goals and one assist in the Champions League – including an impressive brace against his old club RB Leipzig.

Blessed with quick feet, bags of skill and clinicality in the final third, Kuhn is quickly establishing himself as one of the most sought after footballers in Scottish football and his incredible form in particular has made him a top target for Premier League pair Brighton and Brentford, according to TeamTalk.

Both sides have made a strong start to the current Premier League season and are scoring plenty of goals, but remain in the market to add further squad depth as they look to make a surprise push for European football, with the likes of Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur all struggling for consistency at this moment in time.

Brentford boss Thomas Frank, in particular is an admirer of the 24-year-old, and sees Kuhn as the type of player that would fit in well to his attacking style of play at the Gtech Community Stadium.

However, Brighton are also keen on the winger and are believed to hold a good relationship with Celtic due to how smoothly and efficiently the £25m deal for Matt O’Riley was handled over the summer.

Celtic are in no rush to sell Kuhn as he is under contract until 2029. Sources close to the club claim that this puts them in a position of power to demand a high fee which is thought to be around £25m.

TeamTalk claims Celtic are reluctant to let go of Kuhn in January but adds that there is a ‘high expectation’ that he will leave Glasgow this summer.

The SFA’s Strange Friday Decision

John Beaton has been appointed to referee next weekend’s League Cup final between Celtic and Rangers, marking his second consecutive Glasgow Derby assignment this season.

23rd September 2023; Almondvale Stadium, Livingston, Scotland: Scottish Premiership Football, Livingston versus Celtic; Referee John Beaton

The referee previously took charge of Celtic’s 3-0 win over Rangers at Celtic Park in September—a match notable for its intensity but relatively free of major controversy.

While derby clashes are notorious for their high stakes and fiery exchanges, Beaton managed the September encounter with a measured approach, letting the game flow while maintaining control.

Beaton issued eight yellow cards to players and one to Rangers staff member Alex Rae, who reacted furiously to a touchline altercation between Alistair Johnston and Dujon Sterling Diomande. The pair were booked following a brief scuffle that saw both players end up on the ground near the sideline.

While some felt the yellow cards were unnecessary and that a verbal warning would have sufficed, the equal punishment was deemed fair given both players’ involvement in the incident.

The most contentious moment came when Kyogo Furuhashi’s goal was ruled out by VAR for offside.

Callum McGregor threaded a ball through to Nicolas Kuhn, who was judged to be marginally offside before squaring it to Kyogo for the finish.

Replays showed a tight call, with many Celtic fans convinced Kuhn was onside despite VAR’s ruling.

While the decision wasn’t Beaton’s to make, as VAR overruled the on-field goal, it became a focal point of post-match discussion. The offside lines drawn by VAR left little room for error, but questions lingered over the margins.

In the second half, James Forrest found himself at the centre of a potential penalty controversy.

Forrest’s strike was blocked by John Souttar, whose arms were by his side. Moments later, Forrest went down after a challenge in the box.

Beaton waved play on, and VAR backed his call, ruling no handball or foul. This was widely viewed as the correct decision, with Souttar’s defending deemed clean.

Overall, Beaton handled the match well, avoiding any major flashpoints or game-changing errors apart from the contentious VAR offside call, which was beyond his control.

EXCLUSIVE REPORT: Irish striker Kenny set to earn Celtic opportunity after impressive form in Europe for Shamrock Rovers

Celtic are set to hand Irish striker Johnny Kenny the chance to make a first-team impact at Parkhead.

“On that, we’ll quote you.” A BBC host responds to Marvin Bartley’s claim of the Celtic title

Celtic remain unbeaten on the domestic circuit.

If that continues during these coming weeks, then Brendan Rodgers might as well write a book on how to utterly dominate Scottish football because he is about to do it again!

The Irishman’s first stint at Celtic was legendary – and yes, how he left didn’t help matters – but all of that is forgotten about now.

Celtic winning the double upon Rodgers’ return is one reason and so is their start to this campaign, including the performances in the Champions League.

The depth in quality available to the champions is some of the best anyone has seen in a very, very long time and not many can lay a glove.

On Wednesday night, Celtic slapped Aberdeen 1-0 to move seven points clear at the top of the Premiership table – with a game in hand.

The Bhoys are also 11 points clear of Rangers, who are four points behind Aberdeen in the latest Premiership standings.

Rodgers tried to play it all down by insisting that the title race isn’t done, but Marvin Bartley had other ideas.

Marvin Bartley says Celtic won Premiership title before Aberdeen win

If Jimmy Thelin’s side – who recorded a draw at Parkhead for the reverse fixture – had secured three points, then they would have been a point behind now.

But instead, they might as well focus on fighting for second spot with Rangers.

When Bartley claimed that the title race was ‘over before this game (against Aberdeen)’, BBC Sportscene presenter Steven Thompson added by saying ‘we will quote you on that’.

Thompson asked: “Marv, is the league over in December?” To which Bartley responded: “It was over before this game. No-one is going to catch Celtic. They have been that good this season.

“They are going from strength to strength. Bringing in more squad players. Celtic win the league, for me, all day long.”

Thompson then finished off by saying: “Okay, we will quote you on that.”

Celtic can once and for all finish off Rangers after Philippe Clement’s comments

The Aberdeen was the first of some huge domestic games in December, not including a trip to Croatia to take on Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League.

The League Cup final against Rangers at Hampden is the main event, before the New Year starts with a bang at Ibrox.

Celtic just need to see off these games – and Philippe Clement probably won’t be in a job – and Rodgers would have seen past another Rangers boss.

Clement has claimed recently, as quoted by BBC Sport: “I’m not counting. Nothing is ever decided in December, but we want more points, we want to win every game. I want players who are focused on winning that next game, nothing more.”

Report: McGowan reveals Celtic’s new striker plan

Johnny Kenny is set to become part of Celtic’s first team squad.

The then teenage striker was signed in January 2022 from Sligo Rovers but without making a first team squad he was sent out on loan to Queens Park followed by two stints at Shamrock Rovers.

Kenny’s game appears to have moved up a grade this season, scoring three times in the UEFA Conference with Rovers on course to progress out of the group phase.

That form has been picked up by Celtic who appear to have a top team vacancy for a striker.

Writing in the Daily Mail the well connected Stephen McCowan reports

Celtic are set to hand Irish striker Johnny Kenny the chance to make a first-team impact at Parkhead.

Brendan Rodgers wants a younger goalscorer to provide back-up and competition for Kyogo Furuhashi and Adam Idah.

Kenny, 21, has auditioned for the role by propelling Shamrock Rovers to the brink of the Europa Conference League play-offs.

The Republic of Ireland Under-21 international claimed his third European strike in a stunning 1-1 draw away to Rapid Vienna last week.

Returning to the Tallaght Stadium for a second loan spell from Celtic last January, a total of 18 goals has caught the eye of his parent club, with strikes against Larne and The New Saints lifting Rovers to tenth in the Europa Conference League table, above the likes of Hearts, Copenhagen, Real Betis and Panathinaikos.

Kenny has two more opportunities to impress on the Continental stage, against Borac Banja Luka and Chelsea, before returning to Parkhead where he is under contract until 2026.

Much will depend on whether Kenny returns to Celtic as Plan C for the second half of the season or if there is a plan to give him playing minutes.

Liam Scales has shown that it is possible to move from the League of Ireland and evolve into a Champions League player with the signs being that Kenny will get the same opportunity.

Haha! Watch Neil Lennon’s response when Kris Boyd warns Celtic about the championship.

Kris Boyd closed out Sky Sports’ coverage from Pittodrie with the phrase ‘Be afraid, Rangers are back’.

That seemed to be inspired by news from Ibrox of a 6-0 win for Phil Clement’s side but it is fair to say that Neil Lennon and Jonny Hayes are unlikely to have many sleepless nights over the thoughts of their Sky Sports colleague.

Boyd watched last night’s action unfold from the Sky Sports studio at Pittodrie- giving him the perfect view of Reo Hatate’s goal in the 78^th minute.

That exquisite strike came after the final whistle at Ibrox which might have given Boyd a flicker of hope that there could be a serious challenge to Celtic in the SPFL.

Hatate’s goal took Celtic to 40 points out of 42 from their first 14 matches- an incredible strike rate that if continued would see them smash through the 100 points barrier.

? “Be afraid, Rangers are back”

Kris Boyd on tonight’s other Scottish Premiership results ??

— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) December 4, 2024

Elsewhere in the world at 11 point gap at the start of December wouldn’t quite be the end of the title race but in Scotland things are very different.

Thirteen wins and a draw to start this season is similar to how Celtic finished last season where they won nine and drew once in their final 10 matches which followed their last domestic defeat, away to Hearts on March 3.

Sky Sports will be at Dingwall on Sunday to see if Phil Clement’s side can make it four wins in a row but by kick-off time they could be 14 points behind if Celtic take care of Hibs at home on Saturday

Undoubtedly a Joke: Boyd’s Funny Rangers Warning to Celtic Following Wednesday’s Outcomes

Kris Boyd hit out with a hilarious warning to Celtic live on Sky Sports after Rangers’ 6-0 win over Kilmarnock on Wednesday night.

The ex-Gers striker was covering Celtic’s hard-fought 1-0 victory at Pittodrie but kept a keen eye on events at Ibrox, where his old team ran riot.

Philippe Clement’s men now have three wins on the bounce. They have scored 11 goals in their previous three matches, too, and conceded just once.

They are gaining momentum, but Boyd’s warning left many in the Sky Sports studio at Pittodrie in hysterics.

Indeed, towards the end of the programme, host Eilidh Barbour mentioned Rangers’ 6-0 win, to which Boyd replied: “Be afraid, Rangers are back.”

Ex-Celts Neil Lennon and Jonny Hayes couldn’t contain their laughter:

Boyd surely had to be joking, but mind you, such delusion seems to have plagued the Rangers fanbase over the past few years.

Granted, they are gaining momentum at the perfect time, although we can’t forget how poor they have been all season long: being 11 points behind Celtic in early December proves the Ibrox club’s dismal start to the campaign.

Fans are beginning to turn one eye to the League Cup final, which takes place a week on Sunday. While Clement and his men might be ‘back’, Celtic, based on their incredible start to the season, remain favourites heading into the Hampden showdown.

Veiw Video: Aberdeen Star’s Attempt to Con Referee vs Celtic

One of the more contentious moments of Celtic’s 1-0 victory over Aberdeen at Pittodrie came in the second half when Dons forward Duk appeared to go to ground in the penalty area under minimal, if any, contact.

With the match still goalless at the time, it was a flashpoint that could have had major ramifications, but it seems to have escaped significant scrutiny in the post-match analysis.

The incident occurred as Duk collected the ball on the edge of the box, displaying quick feet to get past Greg Taylor and drive into the area. With Auston Trusty and Kasper Schmeichel closing in, the forward went to ground, seemingly anticipating contact rather than being fouled.

Referee Don Robertson waved play on, much to the frustration of the home fans but it was the right decision, but the lack of post-match focus on the incident raises eyebrows.

Why the Silence?

Had this been a Celtic player, there’s little doubt the moment would have been dissected at length, with pundits quick to discuss intent and whether the player tried to deceive the referee.

The lack of attention given to Duk’s fall speaks volumes about the differing standards applied when Celtic are involved in controversial moments.

4th December 2024; Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Aberdeen versus Celtic; Duk of Aberdeen shields the ball from Callum McGregor of Celtic

When players from other teams go down easily, these incidents are often brushed aside. Yet, similar actions from a Celtic player would likely dominate the headlines and provoke widespread outrage.

Peter Grant on Celtic TV accused the player of diving earlier in the game to get Alex Valle a yellow card and he was none too impressed with the Aberdeen player’s attempt to win a spot kick.

No Case for a Penalty

It’s clear there was no real case for a penalty. While Duk did well to manoeuvre into a dangerous position, replays suggest no contact was made by either Taylor, Trusty, or Schmeichel. Instead, the forward seemed to be looking for a decision that was never coming.

4th December 2024; Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Aberdeen versus Celtic; Celtic players celebrate

As Celtic fans celebrate a hard-earned win, questions remain over why moments like Duk’s tumble are swept aside.

Auston Trusty’s Outstanding Celtic Post-Match Interview

Auston Trusty has quickly become a vital figure in Celtic’s defence, and despite a nervy late moment in the 1-0 win over Aberdeen, the American defender remains a key part of Brendan Rodgers’ plans. Speaking live on Sky Sports after the match, Trusty reflected on the team’s confidence, resilience, and his ever-improving partnership with fellow centre-back Cameron Carter-Vickers.

“The Team is Confident”

Celtic were made to work for their victory at Pittodrie, with Reo Hatate’s 78th-minute strike and Carter-Vickers’ stunning late block ensuring all three points in difficult conditions. Trusty highlighted the belief within the squad that no matter how long the game remains on a knife-edge, they have the quality to come out on top.

“The team is confident, no matter how long the game goes on this team is confident we can get the win,” Trusty said. “I think it shows the characteristics of the team, we back ourselves no matter how long it stays at 0-0.”

Saved by a huge CCV Block

Trusty himself had a moment to forget late in the match when, off balance, he inadvertently gifted the ball to Ester Sokler in a dangerous area. However, his centre-back partner and compatriot Carter-Vickers came to the rescue with a perfectly timed block that denied Sokler a certain equaliser. It was a moment of relief for Trusty, who will no doubt be grateful for Carter-Vickers’ intervention.

Building Chemistry at the Back

Trusty also spoke about his developing relationship with CCV at the heart of Celtic’s defence, praising the growing understanding between the two American internationals.

Soccer Football – Champions League – Celtic v RB Leipzig – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – November 5, 2024 Celtic’s Auston Trusty celebrates after the match REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

“We’ve known each other for a good bit now,” Trusty explained. “It’s getting better and better, the chemistry is getting better and there’s more to come.”

Liam Scales will feel hard done by to drop out of the side, especially after his performance against Ross County at the weekend, but it’s clear who Rodgers favourite pairing is.

With the team seven points clear at the top of the table, the Hoops will need their defensive solidity as they approach a critical period, including matches against Hibs, a Champions League trip to play Croatia Zagreb.

For now, Trusty and Carter-Vickers are proving to be the foundation upon which Celtic’s title charge is built.

It feels about right’ – Hearts chief aims dig at ‘sad’ Celtic supporters at AGM after away ticket debate

Tynecastle chief executive Andrew McKinlay answered questions from supporters at the club’s AGM on Wednesday

Hearts CEO Andrew McKinlay believes cutting Celtic and Rangers ticket allocation to 630 at Tynecastle “feels about right” as he took aim at away supporters amid the ongoing ticket fiasco.

The limited number of briefs for travelling fans during the Hoops recent trip to Gorgie sparked a massive backlash from Hoops supporters after the Jambos took the decision to cut all away allocations with the exception of city rivals Hibs last season amid bumper season ticket sales and an increasing demand from walk-up punters for home tickets.

The new regulations mean that Celtic and other Scottish Premiership clubs are allowed just one section of the Roseburn stand, which has led to widespread anger with the Green Brigade releasing a statement last month criticising Hearts for causing “unnecessary division an friction amongst our support.”

Celtic and Rangers now get a smaller ticket allocation at Tynecastle.

Asked by one club shareholder at today’s AGM if the time is right to stop selling tickets for away league matches with a waiting list of 7,000 for season tickets, McKinlay said (as per the Edinburgh Evening News): “I understand that from some of the Celtic supporters. Personally, I think we have it just about right at the moment. I think what we’ve got to do is to take all the teams other than Hibs to 630. It feels about right.

“I would love some away support not to be here but I do think that it’s actually quite sad that there are certain other clubs that can’t manage to accommodate away support as part of football.

“What I would also say, and I think it’s really important, and I touched upon it in my talk is it’s important that we sell out our end of the ground so that we can then open our ticket exchange because there are thousands on waiting lists and I’m sure they look around the stadium each week and think there’s loads of seats that are emptying and there are.

“That is the prerogative of a season ticket holder, to come when they wish, and I get that but if we could sell out, then we’d get onto the ticket exchange and that would allow other fans to come and enjoy the experience. As with all clubs, when we publish the attendance at games it’s based on ticket sales numbers and not the actual number that come into the stadium.

“Obviously, for safety reasons and other reasons, we know exactly how many are in the stadium and, without giving the exact numbers, when we played Celtic, we were about 5,000 down on the number that we announced.

“When we played Aberdeen last weekend, we were about 3,000 down. So there are plenty of seats in the stadium. It’s just how we manage to get to a stage where we can sell them and the way we do that is to sell out the rest of the seats, so we can then go to ticket exchange.”

During the BBC post-match interview, Rodgers declines to accept bribes.

Brendan Rodgers dismissed any suggestion that the league title is already decided after Celtic’s 1-0 victory over Aberdeen at Pittodrie sent them seven points clear at the top of the SPFL table.

The Celtic manager was asked in his post-match interview if the gap at the summit meant the league was already won, but Rodgers refused to take the bait. Instead, he reinforced his focus on maintaining standards and navigating the challenges ahead in what he described as a long campaign.

“There are 38 games, so it’s nowhere near done,” Rodgers told the BBC. “I understand people will look at it that way, but for us, there’s such a long way to go.”

The Hoops boss made it clear that complacency is not a factor within the squad. “We’re trying to get through the games, play well, but there’s no thought of that [title] in the players’ minds. Our culture is very much based around winning, and we know we have to work very hard in our training and on the pitch to do that.”

Rodgers’ composed response highlighted his experience in managing pressure and expectation. While Celtic have built an impressive lead, especially with rivals dropping points in recent weeks, Rodgers was keen to emphasise that the title race is far from over.

The victory at Pittodrie, sealed by Reo Hatate’s goal and Cameron Carter-Vickers’ crucial block, showcased Celtic’s ability to grind out results in difficult circumstances. However, Rodgers is acutely aware that there are still months of football to play.

The manager’s grounded perspective will be applauded by the supporters who know that nothing is guaranteed in December. With plenty of games still to come, Rodgers and his team are firmly focused on maintaining their consistency and extending their unbeaten run.

Celtic fans are blessed with a number of talented players within the squad who can come in from the sidelines and do a job.

Brendan Rodgers did some great summer transfer work as he spent over £30m at Celtic after bringing in the likes of Auston Trusty, Arne Engels, Paulo Bernardo and Luke McCowan to the club.

And whilst all four of these players have made a big impact for Celtic this season, there is a debate about who should start in the Hoops midfield alongside Callum McGregor this season.

Luke McCowan and Paulo Bernardo got their big chance with a start against Ross County at Celtic Park at the weekend.

The 5-0 win had both players on the scoresheet and it also had Michael Stewart delivering his big verdict on who he would rather see start for Celtic between McCowan and Bernardo moving forward this season.

Michael Stewart explains why he would pick Luke McCowan for Celtic over Paulo Bernardo

Stewart told BBC Radio Scotland, “Luke McCowan has been bright so far and when I look at Luke McCowan I do think to myself, there is definitely scope for him to get more game time, I feel.

“I mean, if you put me on the spot and say who would I pick Luke McCowan or [Paulo] Bernardo, I would personally be picking Luke McCowan.

“And it’s good to see him get a game today and good to see that he is getting on the score sheet and yes, he has settled in quickly.

“He’s a very, very good player.”

Luke McCowan should play for Celtic in the Champions League if Arne Engels ‘is not involved’

But the debate didn’t stop there. With Rodgers seemingly preferring either Engels or Bernardo to start in Champions League games for Celtic, Stewart said the Hoops boss must rethink that and put McCowan in as part of his European plans.

Asked if McCowan should start more games in UEFA’s elite tournament, Stewart continued, “Yes, I personally, I would, because I think he’s bright, he’s involved a lot and I think he is a goal threat as well.

“Brendan Rodgers will see things in training as well and maybe he sees something that I don’t at the moment.

“But I personally, I like him. I’ve liked him as a player for a good number of years and I see him at Celtic he looks like the type of player who certainly has settled in that you see him as a type of player with better players around him he will continue to grow and be better himself.

“And he makes an impact. His deliveries from set pieces, he’s put the ball for the corner for Liam Scales’ goal.

“His general deliveries from wide areas are good. He’s a goal threat. I like him as a player and I think that if Engels was not involved, he certainly would be in my thoughts.”

I suppose Celtic fans should be thankful that there is so much quality within the squad any one of these players could come in and do a good job in beside Callum McGregor and Reo Hatate.

And another positive is that if either McGregor or Hatate need to be rested or suffers a drop in form, then Rodgers has at least three players waiting in the wings to step in and there won’t be a significant drop in quality.

McCowan will undoubtedly see more first-team football this season. Celtic’s fixture schedule will see to that.

With Rodgers facing three games in seven days from Wednesday, it is likely all named Celtic midfielders will be pitched in at some point as the Hoops boss looks to keep his squad fresh, fit and healthy for the Scottish Premiership title race and the assault on the Champions League.

Celtic eye move for 22 y/o who’s been “absolutely on fire” in front of goal

Celtic are looking to complete the January signing of an attacker who has been “absolutely on fire” over the last year, according to an exciting new transfer report.

Celtic transfer news

The Hoops are being linked with plenty of new signings currently, with an audacious move for Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen being mooted in some quarters, in what would be a high-profile piece of business.

The Scottish Premiership giants may have to wait until the end of the season to snap up the Dane, however, at which point he will be out of contract at Old Trafford and available on a free transfer. At 32, his best days are now behind him, but that’s not to say that he wouldn’t be a hugely exciting addition to Brendan Rodgers‘ squad.

A separate transfer claim has suggested that Celtic are eyeing two attacking players in the January transfer window, with left-sided and central options being eyed. They wouldn’t necessarily be immediate starters, whoever the additions are, but the plan would be to provide Rodgers with even more depth in the final third.

Rumours also continue to link the Hoops with a move for Motherwell’s highly-rated young midfielder Lennon Millner, but the likes of Newcastle United and Rangers are also thought to be providing competition for his signature. The teenager has started 13 league games this season, scoring two goals and registering four assists in the process.

Celtic eyeing January move for attacking sensation

According to a new update from Football Insider, Celtic are interested in signing Brondby attacker Mathias Kvistgaarden in the January window, having been linked with him in the past as well. The Hoops have “set their sights” on the 22-year-old, who is a long-term target, with the player himself suggesting that he “would be interested in a move away.”

Kvistgaarden could be an ideal January signing for Celtic, acting as one of the aforementioned additions midway through the season, bolstering Rodgers’ squad in the process. Granted, playing time wouldn’t be too easy to come by, considering the likes of Kyogo Furuhashi and Adam Idah are already good options to lead the line, but he has plenty of pedigree and would be a long-term capture.

Kvistgaarden has scored 10 goals in just 12 starts in the Danish Superliga this season, highlighting his prolific nature in front of goal, while football talent scout Jacek Kulig lauded him for being “absolutely on fire” at one stage last season.

The fact that Kvistgaarden could be available in January instead of next summer would be an added bonus for Celtic, allowing them to sign an exciting young player earlier than expected.

As mentioned, he may have to accept that he would have to bide his time, in terms of starting regularly, but his record this season suggests he could immediately be a healthy threat to Kyogo and Idah, among others.

Green Brigade raise over £21k and fill seven vans with food donations

Green Brigade Annual Foodbank Collection, 2024. Photo Green Brigade

Absolutely outstanding effort from the Green Brigade on Saturday at their Annual Foodbank Collection for 2024 which so far has raised £21,364.67 in cash donations that will now be distributed across Scotland and Ireland over the next few days helping families in need…

Green Brigade Annual Foodbank Collection, 2024. Image: Green Brigade

As well as cash donations the Celtic supporters group also collected seven full vans of food which will now be distributed to various food banks across Glasgow and the West of Scotland.

The Green Brigade have also thanked everyone who donated at the game against Ross County on Saturday afternoon.

“Big thank you to all who donated to our annual foodbank collection on Saturday. This enormous act of solidarity and generosity from the Celtic support will help those most in need this Christmas,”  Green Brigade stated.

Big thank you to all who donated to our annual foodbank collection on Saturday.

This enormous act of solidarity and generosity from the Celtic support will help those most in need this Christmas.

— North Curve Celtic (@NCCeltic) December 2, 2024

Green Brigade Annual Foodbank Collection, 2024. Photo Green Brigade

Celtic Scottish Cup Draw: Bring on Kilmarnock

Celtic have learned their opponents for the Scottish Cup fourth round, with a tie against Kilmarnock now confirmed following Monday night’s draw.

The Hoops, along with other Scottish Premiership clubs, entered the competition at this stage. Brendan Rodgers and his squad will face a familiar foe in Kilmarnock, a side they’ve already encountered domestically this season. And the only club to own a cup victory over a Brendan Rodgers Celtic side when Killie knocked the Hoops out of the League Cup last campaign.

Celtic Hampden Memories

Celtic will hope to replicate the form that secured their thrilling Scottish Cup triumph last season. Fans still have goosebumps at the dramatic final at Hampden, where Adam Idah scored in the dying seconds to seal victory after Paulo Bernardo’s effort was stuck right into the Irishman’s path.

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Kilmarnock – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – August 4, 2024 Celtic’s Liam Scales celebrates scoring their second goal Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith

Full Fourth-Round Scottish Cup draw:

• Dumbarton vs Airdrie

• Cove Rangers vs Forfar Athletic

• Dundee vs Dundee United

• Dunfermline vs Stenhousemuir

• Falkirk vs Raith Rovers

• St Johnstone vs Motherwell

• Queen’s Park vs Montrose

• Ross County vs Livingston

• Hibs vs Clydebank

• Rangers vs Fraserburgh

• Brechin vs Hearts

• Queen of the South vs St Mirren

• Hamilton Accies vs Musselburgh Athletic

• Elgin City vs Aberdeen

• Broxburn vs Ayr United

• Celtic vs Kilmarnock

The fourth-round ties are scheduled to take place in January, with exact dates and kick-off times to be confirmed shortly, it will be the weekend of the 18th. Celtic will want to build on their recent league form and continue their pursuit of another Scottish Cup success.

Before that though they have a hectic festive fixture list that includes champions league travels and a League cup final.

News on Scottish Cup fourth round draw: Celtic begin defence, big derby clash, trio land plum Rangers, Hearts and Hibs ties

Celtic will begin their Scottish Cup defence against Kilmarnock as the fourth round draw threw up plum Premiership ties for three non-league clubs and a huge derby clash.

The Hoops, who are bidding to lift the trophy for the third season in succession after victories in the previous two finals over Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Rangers, were handed a home tie against Derek McInnes’ men in last night’s draw, carried out by former Hearts manager Steven Naismith.

Rangers begin their Scottish Cup quest on home soil after Highland League side Fraserburgh landed a dream trip to Ibrox in a reverse of the 2018 fixture at the same stage of the competition which saw a Gers side managed by Graeme Murty claim a 3-0 win at Bellslea Park courtesy of a Josh Windass hat-trick.

West of Scotland side Clydebank have also been rewarded for reaching the fourth round with a trip to Easter Road to face Hibs, while Highland League leaders Brechin City, who dropped out of the SPFL after suffering relegation from League Two in 2021, will host Hearts at Glebe Park.

Steven Naismith (R) and Jane Lewis during the Scottish Cup Fourth Round draw after the third round match between East Kilbride and Falkirk at K Park. (Photo by Craig Foy / SNS Group) | SNS Group

The tie of the round, however, could take place at Dens Park after Dundee and Dundee United were drawn against each other in a repeat of the 2013 quarter-final at the same venue, which United won 2-1. The other all-Premiership affair will see St Johnstone host Motherwell.

Elgin City welcome north-east neighbours Aberdeen in what is a glamour tie for the current League Two leaders, while Ross County host Livingston and St Mirren travel to Queen of the South.

The draw was conducted live on BBC Scotland after Championship leaders Falkirk became the final side to book their place with a 3-1 win at East Kilbride. Alfredo Agyeman and Calvin Miller put the Bairns two up at half-time and although Scott Ferguson threw the Lowland League outfit a lifeline by pulling one back in the 87th minute, Callumn Morrison scored at the other end less than a minute later to kill off any hopes of a home comeback. The reward for Falkirk is a home tie against manager John McGlynn’s former club, Raith Rovers.

The fourth-round matches will be played on the weekend of January 18 and 19.

Scottish Cup fourth round draw:

Dumbarton v Airdrie

Cove Rangers v Forfar Athletic

Dundee v Dundee United

Dunfermline v Stenhousemuir

Falkirk v Raith Rovers

St Johnstone v Motherwell

Queen’s Park v Montrose

Ross County v Livingston

Hibs v Clydebank

Rangers v Fraserburgh

Brechin City v Hearts

Queen of the South v St Mirren

Hamilton Accies v Musselburgh Athletic

Elgin City v Aberdeen

Broxburn Athletic v Ayr United

Celtic v Kilmarnock

Aberdeen midfielder Leighton Clarkson issues ‘no fear’ of Celtic message – who he says could find rocking Pittodrie ‘really tough’

Midfielder Clarkson says Pittodrie can rock opponents, including Premiership leaders Celtic, when it is at capacity and bouncing.

Aberdeen’s Leighton Clarkson celebrates scoring to make it 1-0 against Hearts. Image: SNS.

Midfielder Leighton Clarkson says Aberdeen have no fear of Premiership leaders Celtic ahead of their top-of-the-table clash at Pittodrie – not with the Red Army behind them.

Aberdeen face the Hoops on Wednesday for the first time since crashing to a 6-0 loss to the Parkhead side in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final in October.

Clarkson insists valuable lessons have been learned by boss Jimmy Thelin and the Dons after their semi-final shocker.

The 24-year-old pinpoints being too passive as a major fault in the semi defeat – and is confident there will be no repeat.

Celtic are unbeaten in the opening 13 Premiership games this season with their only dropped points a 2-2 draw with Aberdeen at Parkhead.

Clarkson insists the Reds can go one better by ending their unbeaten league run.

He said: “We can’t fear them.

“Before the 6-0 at Hampden, we had a decent record against Celtic by drawing the last three games.

“We’ll give them total respect, but we’ll be going out and looking to perform to the best of our ability – and trying to take the three points.”

Aberdeen’s Leighton Clarkson scores to make it 1-0 against Hearts. Image: SNS.

Lessons learned from 6-0 mauling

The heavy 6-0 loss to Celtic at Hampden delivered the first setback in what has been a superb start to the season under Thelin.

Aberdeen were brushed aside by a ruthless Hoops side who were 3-0 up at the break at the national stadium.

What have the Dons learned from the defeat?

Aberdeen’s Leighton Clarkson looks dejected at full time after the 6-0 loss to Celtic. Image: SNS.

“A mixture of things, I think,” said Clarkson.

“The balance of counter-attacking, keeping hold of the ball, maybe not being as passive.

“I felt at Hampden we were a bit passive and Celtic have got really good players. When you give them half a yard, they can punish you and they did.

“It’s happened, but that 6-0 loss is in the past now. We look forward.

“In the games since then, the spirit’s always been there. The fight’s always been there.

“You saw it at the end against Hearts. We’ve got that real togetherness in the squad still.

“We need to be at it on Wednesday.”

‘When Pittodrie is bouncing, it can rock other teams’

Aberdeen battled back from 2-0 down at half-time to secure a 2-2 draw with Celtic at Parkhead in October.

The Reds were neck-and-neck with Celtic at the top of the Premiership table before the winless run which extended to three games with Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Hearts.

Thelin’s second-placed Reds trail league leaders Celtic by four points – with the Hoops also holding a game in hand.

Clarkson reckons a packed Pittodrie can give the Reds an edge.

Aberdeen have a flawless home record this season – with 11 wins from 11 games at Pittodrie in all competitions.

Clarkson said: “We’ll have Pittodrie behind us, backing us all the way.

“A game under the lights can’t come much better than that.

“When Pittodrie is bouncing, it can rock other teams – and hopefully they’ll be there in full force on Wednesday night.

Pittodrie before kick-off between Aberdeen and Rangers. Image: SNS.

“When you get that place bouncing, it’s a really tough place to go for opponents.

“We’ll be at it Wednesday night and the crowd will be with us, too.

“We have a good record at home so, hopefully, we can take the three points.”

‘Ill’ Ross County stand-in keeper praised for Celtic clean sheet

Ross County goalkeeper Jack Hamilton makes a save from Celtic’s Alex Valle (Image: PA)

Jack Hamilton wasn’t even certain to be included in the Ross County squad to face Celtic last weekend after battling an illness all week, manager Don Cowie has confirmed.

Ross County’s back-up goalkeeper had missed several training sessions throughout the build up to the huge Scottish Premiership away clash and didn’t even travel with the team.

But in a dramatic turn of events, he was named among the substitutes with Cowie clearly not expecting to have to call on the 30-year-old shot-stopper.

What would then occur arguably wasn’t in the script.

Ross County found themselves 5-0 down at Celtic Park as the hosts ran rampant in an exhilarating first half performance.

Regular goalkeeper Ross Laidlaw went on to suffer an injury and it meant that Hamilton would have to get his gloves on and hope to prevent a more damaging scoreline come full-time.

The former Heart of Midlothian, Dundee and Greenock Morton star done exactly that by keeping a clean sheet during the second half, making several key saves in the process.

“It was an excellent performance,” said Cowie. “Jack had not been with the group for the past two or three days, he had been ill, so he only came straight to the ground on Saturday.

“He wasn’t in the hotel on Friday night, he wasn’t there for a pre-match. He just came to meet us because he had been feeling unwell.

“He had to be thrown in that situation. Great credit to him – I thought he performed very well.”

My dad was a Celtic legend – now I need help honouring his final wish

The daughter of Celtic and St Mirren great Frank McGarvey has raised £25k for a cancer charity in a bid to honour her dad’s parting wish

The daughter of Celtic and St Mirren legend Frank McGarvey has raised £25,000 for Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland in an effort to fulfil her dad’s dying wish.

Jenny Kane teamed up with the charity and has been raising awareness of the disease since the 66-year-old’s passing on New Years Day last year. McGarvey – who scored 109 goals in his 245 appearances for the Hoops, began experiencing extreme pain in 2022 which saw him visit doctors regularly, who were initially unable to diagnose the cause.

He was suffering from chest pains, loss of appetite and weight loss, was given painkillers and indigestion medication before a CT scan confirmed the presence of the deadly cancer.

Speaking previously to the Daily Record, Jenny admitted: “Dad went to the doctors five or six times in spring 2022 and was misdiagnosed. As a former footballer, he had a high pain threshold, but he was in agony. The doctors were giving him painkillers and indigestion medication which weren’t helping.

“It felt like no one was looking at the bigger picture and tracking how much weight he was losing. I had never heard of pancreatic cancer before, but I knew deep down there was something that wasn’t right. It took six weeks after his diagnosis before the doctors even started talking to Dad about treatment.

“Pancreatic cancer feels like the forgotten cancer. My Dad died in pain. No-one should have to go through that suffering.”

Pancreatic cancer is the deadliest of all common cancers, with a five-year survival rate of less than 8%. In Scotland alone, more than 900 people are diagnosed with the disease each year, and in the UK, 26 lives are lost to pancreatic cancer every day. With early diagnosis, survival rates improve – but the symptoms are often missed, delaying crucial treatment.

Two years on from Frank’s participation in raising awareness at Glasgow Central station, Jenny has brought the fight to beat the disease to Parkhead and has successfully managed to raise the significant sum for World Pancreatic Cancer Day through the incredible efforts of Frank’s family, friends, and the wider community.

Jenny said: “When my dad was diagnosed, he said to me, ‘Jenny, we need to tell people about this.’ That’s why our family is working with Pancreatic Cancer Action – to make sure others don’t miss the signs like we did. We’re fighting for earlier diagnosis, so no one else has to miss out on a future with their loved ones.”

McGarvey’s son, Sean added: “The £25,000 raised in memory of my dad is such a comfort to our family at this time. The work Pancreatic Cancer Action does is inspirational and reminds me of my dad’s plea at the end, which was to help others who have to face this awful disease. Thank you so much to the charity, and everyone who was involved in the fundraising.”

Joe Kirwin, Chief Executive Officer, Pancreatic Cancer Action, commented: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to this incredible effort. Your generosity not only honours Frank’s memory but also supports our mission to improve early diagnosis and raise awareness of pancreatic cancer.”

You could argue that Celtic are pretty happy with their current Champions League standings.

Brendan Rodgers’ side are 20th in the league table, in a play-off spot, and three points behind fifth-placed Atalanta with three games to play.

A trip to Croatia to take on Dinamo Zagreb is on the horizon followed by a home clash against bottom-of-the-table Young Boys and then Celtic’s mouthwatering trip to Aston Villa.

The Bhoys will be backing themselves to win, at least, two of those matches and then you never know what is around the corner, in regards to a top-eight finish.

But Celtic will be kicking themselves after their 1-1 draw against Club Brugge last time out, which was a point fans would accept, but would still be disappointed with because of the expectations before a ball was kicked.

That first-half performance was very poor and Cameron Carter-Vickers’ own goal was an embarrassing moment for the player and one that he will want to forget pretty quickly, but there seems to be an ‘explanation’ behind it all.

Gab Marcotti says ‘freaking loud’ Celtic fans contributed to Cameron Carter-Vickers’ own goal

One of the great things about this revamped Champions League format is that it increases Celtic’s chances of reaching the knockout stages.

If that happens – and it should – then it will allow Parkhead to showcase why it is probably the best stadium on European nights.

Italian reporter Gab Marcotti touched upon the Celtic fans and how they are so ‘freaking loud’, including how he was told that contributed to Carter-Vickers’ own goal because the players couldn’t hear each other, as he told ESPN.

“A horror goal to concede from Cameron Carter-Vickers,” said Marcotti. “Brugge, I actually think are a good side. It’s easy to underrate them.

“The interesting thing was that it was reported that it was so loud that they just couldn’t hear each other. You should go to YouTube and check this out, but it’s a pressing action and they are trying to play out from the back. Celtic, by the way, are not used to being pressed given that they play in the SPL. They have obviously worked on this, it’s simply that Schmeichel runs out to receive the ball at the near post or just outside the near post. Carter-Vickers doesn’t know that he is there. They are talking and shouting at each other.

“One of the explanations I heard is that Celtic Park is just so freaking loud. Those fans are so noisy.”

What Callum McGregor said about Carter-Vickers’ own goal

Going by the players themselves, it seems as though noise and a lack of communication played a part in that own goal going in.

Callum McGregor, unfortunately, had one of the best views in the house when that ball slowly hit the back of the net.

And he shared on TNT Sport, after the match, that it was ‘so loud’ that Carter-Vickers didn’t hear him shout.

“I think Nicolas does well to get the pass to Cam, but I think he’s surprised by it, and obviously he’s getting pressed,” said McGregor.

“And it’s so loud in here that he hasn’t heard me. I’m screaming for him that I’m not on so it’s one of those things. We just move on. It happens.”

Celtic eye move for 22 y/o who’s been “absolutely on fire” in front of goal

Celtic are looking to complete the January signing of an attacker who has been “absolutely on fire” over the last year, according to an exciting new transfer report.

Celtic transfer news

The Hoops are being linked with plenty of new signings currently, with an audacious move for Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen being mooted in some quarters, in what would be a high-profile piece of business.

The Scottish Premiership giants may have to wait until the end of the season to snap up the Dane, however, at which point he will be out of contract at Old Trafford and available on a free transfer. At 32, his best days are now behind him, but that’s not to say that he wouldn’t be a hugely exciting addition to Brendan Rodgers‘ squad.

A separate transfer claim has suggested that Celtic are eyeing two attacking players in the January transfer window, with left-sided and central options being eyed. They wouldn’t necessarily be immediate starters, whoever the additions are, but the plan would be to provide Rodgers with even more depth in the final third.

Rumours also continue to link the Hoops with a move for Motherwell’s highly-rated young midfielder Lennon Millner, but the likes of Newcastle United and Rangers are also thought to be providing competition for his signature. The teenager has started 13 league games this season, scoring two goals and registering four assists in the process.

Celtic eyeing January move for attacking sensation

According to a new update from Football Insider, Celtic are interested in signing Brondby attacker Mathias Kvistgaarden in the January window, having been linked with him in the past as well. The Hoops have “set their sights” on the 22-year-old, who is a long-term target, with the player himself suggesting that he “would be interested in a move away.”

Kvistgaarden could be an ideal January signing for Celtic, acting as one of the aforementioned additions midway through the season, bolstering Rodgers’ squad in the process. Granted, playing time wouldn’t be too easy to come by, considering the likes of Kyogo Furuhashi and Adam Idah are already good options to lead the line, but he has plenty of pedigree and would be a long-term capture.

Kvistgaarden has scored 10 goals in just 12 starts in the Danish Superliga this season, highlighting his prolific nature in front of goal, while football talent scout Jacek Kulig lauded him for being “absolutely on fire” at one stage last season.

The fact that Kvistgaarden could be available in January instead of next summer would be an added bonus for Celtic, allowing them to sign an exciting young player earlier than expected.

Celtic and Rangers have been enjoying some very good results in Europe over the last couple of months as both clubs compete in the Champions League and Europa League respectively.

Celtic have beaten RB Leipzig and Slovan Bratislava so far this season and have suffered a heavy defeat to last season’s Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund.

Brendan Rodgers’ Bhoys have also drawn with Atalanta and Club Brugge as the current Scottish champions go toe to toe with Europe’s elite clubs in UEFA’s flagship tournament.

Rangers on the other hand are competing in UEFA’s second-tier tournament and, to be fair to them, have also recorded some decent results.

With wins over Malmo, FCSB and Nice Rangers are going well in the Europa League despite being hammered 4-1 by Lyon at Ibrox and drawing with Olympiacos.

And after the latest round of European fixtures has been concluded, FIFA has released their rankings and where Celtic place compared to Rangers is very interesting indeed.

FIFA ranks Celtic 25 places higher than Rangers

FIFA looks after the rankings of all six continents in world football so when the last rounds of all of UEFA’s European tournaments concluded last week, this is where Celtic and Rangers rank.

In 37th place, Celtic rank higher than Feyenoord (42nd), Bayer Leverkusen (45th) and next Champions League opponents Dinamo Zagreb (49th).

Remarkably, Young Boys who are yet to pick up a single Champions League point this season ranks 35th with RB Leipzig being pencilled in at 11th.

As for Rangers, they are the second-worst team in the FIFA rankings at 62nd with only Besiktas placed below them.

Celtic and Rangers’ upcoming big Champions League and Europe League nights

Celtic and Rangers both have big European nights coming up this month as the Glasgow clubs look to progress in Europe this season.

Rangers have former Celtic boss now Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou making a return to Ibrox as he brings his Spurs team to Glasgow to face the third places Scottish Premiership side.

Celtic have a trip to Dinamo Zagreb as the current Croatian champions struggle for form this season.

If both clubs can win their ties then at least a play-off place will be be guaranteed as well as European football beyhond January which should help boost Scotland’s coefficient this season.

Celtic man wants to perform ‘better’ as Rangers poach key backroom figure from Premiership rivals

Celtic and Rangers have both been in Scottish Premiership action this past weekend

Celtic beat Ross County 5-0 at Celtic Park to keep their push for another title on track. Liam Scales, Luke McCowan, Paulo Bernardo, Callum McGregor and Adam Idah scored all their goals in the first-half against the Staggies.

Meanwhile, Rangers won 1-0 away at St Johnstone after a Jason Holt own goal. Here is a look at the latest news regarding the Glasgow pair…

Celtic man’s message

Celtic midfielder Bernardo has said he believes he can do ‘better’ following their emphatic win over Ross County. The former Benfica man thinks there is even more to come from him with the Hoops.

He has said: “We play at a high level so we need to be playing every game at that high level. We don’t have easy games – we make the games look easy. That phrase is our motivation for these games. We need to look at every game the same way. We’re playing in the Champions League but we have to win the league.

“Every game is very important to us and we have to do it from the first whistle. What we show on the pitch is the work that we do in training and in our analysis of our game. We try to always play the best football and we try to show the fans that we are a very good team by playing football that is really good to watch too. It was a really good game for us. We got the three points which is our objective every game, we scored five goals and we didn’t concede. So it was very good for us as a team.”

He added: “I try to not focus on that (talk from fans). I try to do my best in the games and in training to show that I can play from the start. The manager makes his choices and I have to respect them and try to do my best when I can.

“Every game is a chance to do the right thing. I’m happy with my performances so far but I still think I can do better. It’s just about hard work in training to have these opportunities in the games. We have a lot of quality. I think every player deserves to have an opportunity and when we have the opportunities we have to show to the coach that he can trust us. We did really well on Saturday and I’m proud of the game we produced.”

New face at Rangers

Rangers have brought in Kevin Bain from Scottish Premiership rivals Aberdeen as their new head physio. The backroom staff member has made the switch to Ibrox from the Dons as he embarks on a fresh start in his career.

The former Ross County and St Mirren man worked under Jim Goodwin, Barry Robson, Neil Warnock, Peter Leven and Jimmy Thelin during his time at Pittodrie. He leaves behind a side who are sat in 2nd place in the table behind Celtic after their impressive start to the campaign.

5 reasons for cheers since Celtic fans got snide with Santa from believing in Brendan to something no one expected

It’s been a big 12 months at Parkhead and Record Sport has looked at the big changes since Father Christmas copped it

Santa at a Premiership match at Celtic Park

Everyone at Celtic laughs about it now. It even became a gag at the end of last season when everything turned out just swell.

But it was nothing to chuckle about at the time. Especially for poor old Santa. Saint Nick copped it at Celtic Park when he made an appearance at half-time when the Hoops were 2-0 down to Hearts and on their way to a miserable festive defeat. It might have been a fairly trivial thing and a misplaced target of frustration. But it felt like a kind of key moment that could threaten to define an entire season and underline the bad feeling around the club.

Celtic was far from a happy place back then – unlike the tinsel covered place it is now. A year is a lifetime in football but there has been a massive turnaround in just about every department at Parkhead – which is why this is turning out to be a season to be jolly. Here we look at what’s changed since supporters got snide with Santa…

The boss

Brendan Rodgers admitted when he returned he had work to do to win back some of the fans with some bad blood remaining about his departure first time around. But he clearly had a tougher job on his hands than even he expected. He suffered from some post Ange angst in the stands, with plenty pinning for the departed Aussie.

The performances didn’t help either. Celtic went out of the League Cup at the first hurdle at Kilmarnock and lost there in the league too.

Brendan Rodgers

Home displays against St Johnstone and Motherwell were pretty grim and the loss to the Jambos saw patience snap. Celts were five points clear at the top but not firing and Rodgers even apologised after the Hearts defeat and made promises about signings in the January window.

Now? Brendan is box office and well and truly back in the good books. He recruited well in January, got the team firing and picked up a double with a spectacular run toward the end of the season. It’s rolled into this term and even gone up a notch. The boring build up play has been replaced by thrilling swashbuckling style. The trust in the gaffer is back.

The players

Rodgers had lost star turns like Jota and Carl Starfelt and the summer window was frankly a shambles. There was also the problem with Israeli winger Liel Abada stepping back amid strife in his homeland and Palestine protests in the stands.

Celtic brought in 11 players but only one – Luis Palma – started the Jambos game and he got hooked. Rodgers also had to rely on David Turnbull and Mikey Johnston, players who knew they were on the way out. The arrival of Adam Idah and Nicolas Kuhn in January helped, as was the players getting to grips with Rodgers’s demands.

A year on and the manager has the ‘quality’ he wanted. So much so he could make six changes from Europe and still stuff Ross County for five.

The board

It wasn’t just Santa who copped it a year ago. There were chants of ‘Sack the Board’ as chairman Peter Lawwell and chief exec Michael Nicholson found themselves in the firing line amid frustration the manager was not being properly backed in the transfer market despite record figures in the club’s accounts.

Fast forward a year and just look at last month’s jovial AGM to see how the stance has softened towards the board. The team is leading the charge but the club has £77m and broke their transfer record twice to land Idah and Arne Engels, while banking £25m plus for Matt O’Riley. Celtic fans will always demand more but there is an acceptance now the club is well run.

The atmosphere

It’s no exaggeration to say Parkhead was poisonous back then. It was the perfect storm with some resentment over Rodgers, frustration at perceived penny pinching and the running battles between the club and sections of the support like the Green Brigade ultras.

The Abada situation caused a major rift with Celtic chiefs furious at a banner celebrating the attacks on Israel and the constant stream of fines being handed down by UEFA for flags and fireworks.

Celtic fans during

Bad blood spilled over early on after the draw with St Johnstone and it rumbled over right through the festive period with the team even booed off after a win against Ross County in the January.

The Celtic Park mood has certainly lightened these days. The ground was at his ear-splitting best for the Champions League win against RB Leipzig and there is even more patience these days on the rare occasions when things are not quite happening. Rodgers’s name rings around the ground once more and it’s gone from being a house of pain to being a happy place again.

The rivals

A year ago Rangers were shown signs of a revival under Philippe Clement after a nightmare start saw Michael Beale pack his bags. Hearts were on the charge to third as well but it was the Ibrox men who were the danger.

The gap was five points after the Jambos loss but the Light Blues had a couple of games in hand with the Old Firm game on the horizon. The chat was the title race was back on and Celtic were in real jeopardy of leaving the door open for their rivals.

Now they are in danger of blowing them all away. Rangers are already in their slipstream 11 points back with Clement clinging on to his job. The Old Firm Premier Sports Cup Final is just over a week away and it will be huge with the most successful team in Scotland tag up for grabs with both clubs locked on 118 trophies.

Aberdeen have been the nearest challengers after a stunning start to the season. But the Dons have stumbled in recent weeks and Celtic have the chance to go seven points clear with a win at Pittodrie on Wednesday. Should the Hoops triumph, Santa might as well bring the Premiership trophy with him on this year’s visit to Parkhead.

Celtic have been on a bit of an exciting Champions League journey so far this season.

Brendan Rodgers got his Champions League campaign off to a flier after Celtic destroyed Slovan Bratislava 5-1 at Parkhead.

The Bhoys were then humbled as Celtic crashed to a 7-1 defeat at Borussia Dortmund as last season’s finalists taught them a serious Champions League lesson.

However, Celtic bounced back against Atalanta with a superb draw in Bergamo and Rodgers followed that up as the Hoops hammered RB Leipzig at Celtic Park.

But it was in Celtic’s draw with Club Brugge that Japanese winger, Daizen Maeda, admits that he witnessed something he’s never seen his teammates do before in UEFA’s elite competition.

Daizen Maeda blown away by ‘good gesture’ in Celtic’s draw vs Club Brugge

Celtic fans will never forget Cameron Carter-Vickers’ own goal against the Belgians as the Hoops earned a point in the draw.

But it was what happened afterwards that blew the Celtic winger away.

Maeda told The Herald [print edition page 70], “In the time I have been here, we have never had a huddle as we did after the goal.

“But we are disciplined and it showed how much we wanted to win the game. It was a good gesture in a difficult moment.

“What happened to him [Carter-Vickers] was not only his fault, it was a team thing and we will all take part of the responsibility.

“He has been a leader for this team and he will keep being so.”

Daizen Maeda’s impact for Celtic in the Champions League

Maeda has looked like a new player this season for Celtic under Brendan Rodgers. The Japan international has been on fire with ten goals and four assists so far.

But it’s in the Champions League where Maeda is now being talked about for Celtic in the same circles as Moussa Dembele.

With three goals in the tournament, here is where Maeda has made the biggest impact in the Champions League for Celtic.

Celtic 5 v 1 Slovan Bratislava: Maeda scores Celtic’s fourth goal ten minutes after the Slovakians pulled a goal back at 3-0 down.

Borussia Dortmund 7 v 1 Celtic: The Japan international equalised minutes after the Germans took the lead and gave the travelling Hoops fans hope. We all know what happened next.

Celtic 1 v 1 Club Brugge: Maeda scored a superb equaliser some of the best players in Europe would have been proud of.

Stop what you’re doing and watch this finish from Daizen Maeda 🔥

It’s all square at Celtic Park!

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 27, 2024

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Not only that, Maeda was a pest against RB Leipzig as his pressing and harrying suckered the Bundesliga side into making a mistake for Celtic and Nicolas Kuhn’s second goal.

Maeda is, without doubt, one of Celtic’s most important players in the team and is quickly being elevated into hero status in many of the Hoops fans’ eyes.

Another huge week is on the horizon for Celtic in the Premiership.

A trip to Aberdeen awaits Celtic on Wednesday night, before they host Hibernian at Parkhead and it provides a chance for the team to push further away in the title race.

On Saturday afternoon, Celtic beat Ross County 5-0, with second-placed Aberdeen dropping points at struggling Hearts and they are now four points behind the champions after playing a game extra.

Given what is awaiting Brendan Rodgers and his players in these coming weeks and months, this is a massive chance to go seven points clear, with a game in hand and provide that much-needed cushion.

If that happens, then it will allow the Celtic boss to rest and rotate his players on the domestic circuit in a more free manner, before the fixtures continue to pile up on top of each other, especially in Europe and with knockout football around the corner.

Luke McCowan is expected to play a starring role for his team in these coming weeks and he was asked about that Aberdeen clash.

Luke McCowan says Celtic dressing room talking about Netflix series ‘Starting 5’, not Aberdeen

McCowan was outstanding against Ross County and he will be hoping to keep his place in the XI for the Aberdeen match.

The last time the two met in the league, it was a 2-2 draw at Parkhead and McCowan was asked in his post-match press conference if that has been spoken about in the dressing room, including the chance to increase the points gap.

But the summer capture shut it down and shared that the players are, instead, talking about the Netflix series

A reporter asked: “When the 2-2 game was here against the Dons a few weeks ago, you were level, both pretty much flawless in the campaign, but it could be the case on Wednesday night you are (seven) points clear and start to really create a gap. Is that what you are looking to do, is that what you are talking about in the changing room?”

McCowan responded in a blunt fashion: “No, no, no. We are not talking about anything like that. We are talking about what we are watching on Netflix. Starting 5.

“You don’t look at that and think, well I don’t anyway and I can’t speak on behalf of them, but sit and think about league tables. Performance levels are massive. Training intensity is massive. You just go with that and as the games build up, if the points are there and you are at a gap, then so be it. But it’s all about performance levels here.”

McCowan’s stats ahead of Aberdeen clash

The 26-year-old has only been in the building for a few months, but he is already a very popular player with the fans.

McCowan being a boyhood Celtic fan helps, as well as starting life in Glasgow so well, to the point that some think he should now be starting on a regular basis.

WhoScored have rated McCowan’s performance in the Premiership at 7.13, with six-goal involvements to his name.

TournamentAppsMinsGoalsAssistsKeyPSpGPS%MotMRatingPremiership3(6)321331.41.985.317.13Champions League0(1)16––––50–6.06

Celtic enraged me with derisory offer to replace their best player – ‘people will be crying tears of laughter’

Finding a player in the Swede’s class was always going to be a tall task but Celtic cast their net wide

Rivaldo played in a star-studded Brazil side at the 2002 World Cup (Image: ANTONIO SCORZA/Getty Images)

“This shows what a loss he’s going to be for us – he’s a genius.”

Alan Thompson, the man who created so many assists for Henrik Larsson, had one final remark to make about his legendary team-mate. Celtic supporters were basking in the glow of another trophy in the Martin O’Neill era as the Hoops hero said goodbye in the only way he knew how.

Larsson bagged a brace to sink Dunfermline 3-1 in the Scottish Cup Final, his last-ever appearance for Celtic in May 2004 after a wildly-successful seven-year stay in Glasgow. Two hundred and forty-two goals in 315 appearances – Larsson’s storied Celtic run was over. But the tears that flowed after his final game at Parkhead against Dundee United were replaced by beaming smiles as the striker and his team-mates celebrated the Double.

Amoroso spent time on trial with Celtic

Larsson said his goodbyes and headed for Barcelona after Frank Rijkaard convinced him on his Nou Camp rejuvenation project, with the Catalans falling behind Real Madrid and Valencia in La Liga pecking order. And the quest to find someone, somewhere, to replace Larsson, was well under way.

O’Neill was able to bring box-office signings during his time in Glasgow but most of his big-money arrivals happened in his first two seasons. The trio of Chris Sutton, John Hartson and Neil Lennon cost almost £20million between them. Those three players fit the Irishman’s signing profile to a tee.

Tough, proven in the English Premiership and all itching to prove a point, O’Neill had the magic touch when it came to lighting a fire under his big-game hunters. But the rules had changed by the time of Larsson’s emotional farewell. Celtic had one of the biggest budgets in British football and had been topping up their squad with the likes of Ulrik Laursen, Momo Sylla and David Fernandez – affordable squad options from Scottish rivals.

So how do you solve a problem like replacing Henrik? The Day After Tomorrow was the big summer blockbuster of 2004. It was a film about the world changing beyond recognition and it resonated with a Hoops faithful still reeling after Larsson’s exit.

Finding a player in the Swede’s class was always going to be a tall task but Celtic cast their net wide and weren’t afraid to throw all their chips on the table.

O’Neill was nothing if not ambitious and his No.1 target certainly ticked the boxes when it came to glamour and prestige. Rivaldo, one of the finest players of his generation, was the player the former Leicester boss envisioned attempting to fill the boots of the Parkhead side’s favourite son.

The 32-year-old attacker was a free agent after leaving Cruzeiro, following a mixed two-year spell with Euro heavyweights Milan.

O’Neill – never known for his softly, softly approach in the transfer market – failed to press the right buttons as he offered the Barcelona icon a trial for the club’s pre-season tour of America.

The move was met with incredulity. The player’s representative Carlos Arime claimed “people will be crying tears of laughter” when they discovered Celtic’s intentions. And Arime had a point. Rivaldo would go on to prove there was life in the old dog yet after netting 43 times in 95 appearances during a storied three-year spell with Olympiacos following Celtic’s botched pursuit. The World Cup winner was off the table but another pursuit of a Samba star was to fizzle out.

Larsson shares a moment with O’Neill after winning Scottish Cup in the striker’s last Celtic game

Marcio Amoroso was a goal machine during his time with Dortmund but concerns over a knee injury and reports of an attitude the size of Christ the Redeemer meant any potential deal was a non-starter.

The 19-times capped Selecao star trained with Celtic in May. O’Neill remained coy when asked about a deal for the forward but his agent appeared keen to get him Stateside in a bid to win a deal.

But no contract offer ever materialised for Amoroso and the Scottish champions were back to square one in their search to fill the goal-shaped hole Larsson left behind. Dimitar Berbatov, still with Bayer Leverkusen at the time, was also linked.

Celtic had no time to wait and the search was becoming increasingly desperate. The Hoops were under no illusion a new striker had to be unearthed and a deal was struck with Wolves to bring Henri Camara to Glasgow. Camara, who finished the 2003/04 season like a runaway train after taking his time to settle at Molineux, was being chased by a host of clubs before Celtic won the race for his signature.

And the clamour to sign the Senegalese international was reflected in the price tag as the Hoops splashed out £1.5m for a 12-month loan deal – a fee that was a British record at the time. Camara was on board but Celtic felt they still needed an added X-factor in attack and were back in the market in the search for further creative talent.

O’Neill, who almost exclusively shopped in the UK market, was in for a Premiership star to further bolster his squad. And the Brazilian beat was still ringing O’Neill’s ears as he made his move for Middlesbrough icon Juninho.

There was genuine excitement about the capture of the 31-year-old Riverside legend to complement a front three of Camara, Sutton and Hartson. But despite a rip-roaring debut against Rangers, Juninho was never able to live up to the lofty expectations and played just 22 times during an ill-fated year in Scottish football.

The diminutive playmaker’s spell in Glasgow wasn’t helped by O’Neill’s insistence of playing him on the right, rather than his preferred position through the middle, and being lumbered with Larsson’s iconic No.7 jersey.

Camara also failed to make the grade but there was more to shout about with him. He scored eight times in 18 league appearances and the jet-heeled attacker set up Sutton’s equaliser against Barcelona.

But the striker was never able to catch a break as Larsson’s shadow loomed larged. The Swedish icon returned to Parkhead that night and found the back of the net to remind every Celtic fan of what they were missing.

Although Camara’s strike rate was decent, he never appeared able to replicate his predecessor in terms of forging a strike partnership with either Sutton and Hartson. He returned to Wolves in January to free space for a player who could handle the burden of leading the line for Celtic.

Enter Craig Bellamy. The forward was bold as brass but the out-of-favour Newcastle striker had a point to prove after falling foul of Graeme Souness. The Welshman breathed new life into Celtic’s season and his brilliant displays should have sealed a fourth title in five years for Celtic.

Bellamy netted nine goals in 15 appearances but it was his stunning effort to sink Rangers and put the Hoops five points clear with four games to go that perhaps proved his most telling contribution. The jet-heeled attacker hobbled off, though, and would miss the game against Hibs six days later as O’Neill’s side instantly coughed up their advantage over their rivals.

Bellamy would return weeks later but he could only watch on as Scott McDonald scored a double and the helicopter headed to Easter Road as Rangers won the title at the death. And that crushing loss was part of the final chapter in O’Neill’s Celtic story.

Yes, the Hoops did win the Scottish Cup Final six days later against Dundee United but the five-year thrill ride had come to its conclusion at Fir Park the week prior. Larsson’s departure was a precursor to changed days coming Celtic’s way and O’Neill’s exit 12 months later confirmed as much.

Gordon Strachan took the reins in the summer of 2005 and he ushered in a new style on a reduced budget. O’Neill had previously warned of the “life in the slow lane” that was to come. But Strachan weathered an early storm to win three consecutive titles and reach the last 16 of the Champions League.

Celtic have given their supporters plenty to shout about since the King of Kings abdicated his Parkhead throne but no one has ever quite been able to fill his boots. Yes, the quest to replace him proved futile but that was always going to be the case.

What made Larsson so special was there wasn’t another “genius” like him.

The Celtic manager is a chess grandmaster as Rangers boss edges ever closer to checkmate – Keith Jackson

Brendan Rodgers and Philippe Clement might work in the same city but they operate in completely different worlds

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers and Rangers manager Philippe Clement

In less than two weeks’ time they’ll come together on the south side of Glasgow.

But, although Brendan Rodgers and Philippe Clement will share the same postcode for an afternoon on the touchline at Hampden Park, these two managers are now co-existing in two completely different worlds. If such a thing is even possible. And for the time being at least.

On Saturday, Rodgers saw his long term vision for Celtic being realised and coming together in front of his eyes. Having spent so much of his first season back in town banging on about the need for his squad to be reinforced with ‘quality’ additions, he must have felt as if this first half disemboweling of Ross County was a moment of vindication.

It’s what he had in his mind’s eye from the start. The manpower required to fight on two fronts, in the Champions League and in the domestic game, without skipping a beat.

Better still, to be able to make wholesale changes to his starting XI and to find that these tweaks and alterations might actually improve the energy and intensity of his side’s performance rather than heighten the risk of a drop off. Rodgers swapped out a total of six players from the team he selected to face Bruges on Wednesday night and four of these so called second stringers – Liam Scales, Luke McCowan, Paulo Bernardo and Adam Idah – had got themselves on the scoresheet before County had made it inside to the sanctuary of the dressing room at the interval.

This was wrecking ball stuff from the champions and rock solid proof Rodgers is a manager in complete and utter control, not only of his own team and its destiny but also of the direction his football club is moving in.

His plan for Celtic is now crystalising and his reputation is being re-established and re-enhanced accordingly. There’s now mounting evidence to suspect that Rodgers 2.0 might end up being a considerable upgrade on his first stint in charge, when the consistent rattling off of trebles became entirely routine and almost matter of fact.

He’s now engaged in playing managerial chess, with the calmness and authority to think five moves into the future. Meanwhile, across the city, Clement continues to fly by the seat of his pants, cobbling his Rangers side together on a game-by-game basis without any indication that he really knows what the outcome of his decisions might be.

The Belgian might have scrambled his way to three points in Perth yesterday afternoon thanks to an own goal from Jason Holt but, one year into the job, there is still no identifiable style or substance to the manager’s work.

And nothing to suggest he actually knows what it is that he is actually trying to achieve, other than survive in the job from one week to the next. It has felt as if Clement has been banking on the incompetence of the men up the stairs to blind them from what has been glaringly obvious to everyone else for quite some considerable time.

While Rodgers has it all methodically and meticulously worked out at Celtic, Clement is throwing muck at the wall in the hope of seeing what sticks. He doesn’t know if he can trust his captain enough to play him. Can’t work out who should partner John Souttar at the back. Chops and changes the shape and balance of his midfield three like he’s pinning a tail on a donkey.

And has absolutely no idea who should be leading his attack as a reliable, fully functioning centre forward. Amidst this muddled uncertainty, the likes of Nico Raskin and Ianis Hagi have emerged from nowhere to walk into his first team – even though both of these players looked to be on the way out just a few months ago.

Clement even went to the trouble of embarrassing Hagi in public by saying that the Romanian should find a new club during the summer window as he simply wasn’t talented enough to cut it as a Rangers No.10.

James Tavernier celebrates with Ianis Hagi and Ridvan Yilmaz after St Johnstone’s Jason Holt turns the ball into his own net

And yet there he was yesterday at McDiarmid Park, as the most likely creative spark in Clement’s team and the man whose assist got the manager back down the road again without suffering any fresh collateral damage.

And yet the feeling remains that Clement is now in nothing more than a holding pattern ahead of that showdown with Rodgers in less than a fortnight’s time. If timing is everything in this game then incoming Rangers CEO Parick Stewart has certainly picked his moment to arrive on the scene.

The former Manchester United man, who carries with him a very serious reputation, will start work 24 hours after the Premier Sports Cup Final has been won and lost, and while the dust kicked up at the national stadium is still settling.

But he’ll already be keeping an eye fixed on the manager and his team from a distance and forming his own conclusions over what is required in order to get his own Ibrox tenure off to a solid start.

Stewart has been around the block at Old Trafford enough to know what it looks like when a manager is struggling to keep his head above water. They’ve had enough of them over the last decade or so. And he’ll know too the dangers involved by choosing to do nothing more than hope for the best against all the odds.

That’s precisely what Rangers have been doing since the start of the season, crossing their fingers that Clement might still turn a listing ship around. As a result of their inactivity and of the work that Rodgers has been busy putting together in Glasgow’s east end, the outcome of a cup final between these two sides has never felt so inevitable.

So much so that a Rangers win on December 15 might be considered as a borderline freakish result. And that itself tells the story of where Rodgers and Clement are living right now. In the same city for the time being but in very different worlds.

Forgotten Celtic player could have shock start vs Hoops as sacking lands ex-Rangers boss eye-popping severance

Rangers and Celtic both had victories added to their accounts this weekend in the Premiership.

First up this weekend were the champions and they ran riot against Ross County. A star-studded first half inspired them to a 5-0 victory against Don Cowie’s side with Celtic now facing Aberdeen on Wednesday night.

Rangers were the Sunday lunchtime game on TV and it won’t be racing to the top of the highlights charts. After a swashbuckling thrashing of Nice in the Europa League on Thursday, a subdued 1-0 win against St Johnstone was clinched through an own goal by ex-midfielder Jason Holt.

Philippe Clement’s host Kilmarnock on Wednesday. Here are some of the latest stories with Rangers and Celtic flavours.

Forgotten goalie could start vs Celtic

Aberdeen may have an injury worry to contend with against Celtic – and the deputy is a man some Hoops fans may have forgotten all about. Ross Doohan is the back-up at Pittodrie, coming through the Celtic academy, having seven loan spells before leaving in 2022 permanently without much senior involvement. He’s been at Aberdeen since 2023.

Four in a row- fresh blow for Dinamo Zagreb as Celtic match looms

Nine days before facing Celtic in the Champions League Dinamo Zagreb have lost 1-0 away to Haduk Split.

With Celtic on eight points and Dinamo on seven the winner of the December 10 match will put themselves in with a great chance of progress into the Round of 16 Play-Offs when the final two fixtures are played in January.

While Brendan Rodgers’ side are in top gear domestically Dinamo are now sitting in third place in the Croatian League, four points behind Rijeka and Hadjuk with a game less played than Rijeka.

Canadian striker Niko Sigur scored the decisive goal in the 54^th minute, a message or two may be exchanged with Alistair Johnston before Celtic kick-off in the Croatian capital.

Kraj utakmice.

— GNK Dinamo (@gnkdinamo) December 1, 2024

Zagreb are now on a run of four matches without a win but will have an edge in preparation over Celtic before the Champions League tie.

While the hoops face Aberdeen on Wednesday and Hibs on Saturday the Croatian champions will only play Slaven Koprivnica on Friday ahead of their match against Celtic.

Dinamo will be at home for Friday’s match, looking for their first win in five against opponents currently sitting in sixth place and on a three match winning run.

Celtic’s next home match in the Champions League is on January 22 at home to YB Berne who beat St Gallen 3-1 today.

YB are currently in ninth place in the Swiss League with a break between December 15 and January 18 before they face Celtic.

Andy Halliday says Lawrence Shankland would ‘go to Celtic’

Celtic are in a strong position heading into the January transfer window.

Compared to last season, when there were chants of ‘sack the board’ during Celtic’s defeat to Hearts in November, the club enters this window in a far healthier manner.

Brendan Rodgers has stated that Celtic want to do business and talk about who could come in has already started.

Quite a lot of noise has centred around the midfield places, with some arguing that could be the strongest part of Rodgers’ squad.

From Motherwell star Lennon Miller to Burnley’s soon-to-be out-of-contract star, Josh Brownhill, many names have popped up.

But another name was discussed, in regards to the forward areas, especially after Rodgers stated he wants three strikers back in August.

As of this moment, Kyogo Furuhashi is Celtic’s main man, with Adam Idah, who scored during the thumping win against Ross County on Saturday, as the back-up option.

But how about a man who is expected to leave his current club and arrive, not in the winter, but perhaps in the summer of 2025?!

Andy Halliday says Lawrence Shankland would ‘go to Celtic’

The Scotland international isn’t hitting the high notes of last season, but that still hasn’t stopped noise around his future.

As Si Ferry touched upon on Open Goal, Lawrence Shankland ‘expects to leave Hearts’, with his contract expiring next summer.

Andy Halliday stated that Shankland would ‘go to Celtic’, but former Bhoys youth product Paul Slane shut it down by stating that he simply ‘wouldn’t suit’ Rodgers’ style.

“In the last few games, where I have watched Shanks, every part of his game, apart from goalscoring, has been great,” shared Ross McCormack.

“Shankland said he expects to leave Hearts and there is ‘no progression made on a new deal, he is free to talk to other clubs in January,” shared Si Ferry. “Would Celtic take him?”

Paul Slane responded: “No, I don’t think so.” And then McCormack asked: “Do you think he would go to Celtic?”

Andy Halliday then chipped in: “I think he would go to Celtic.” Before Ferry reminded the panel: “He did say he wanted three strikers at the start of the season, didn’t he, Rodgers?!”

Slane then claimed: “I don’t think he suits Celtic’s style. The way we press.”

Shankland’s stats v Kyogo Furuhashi and Adam Idah

At the end of the day, it’s about the here and now, as Shankland simply isn’t good enough for the levels of Celtic.

Yes, he scored 31 goals last season in all competitions, but it’s December now and, as posted by Transfermarkt, he only has one goal for Hearts this term – Callum McGregor has scored more from just outside of the box.
′

Then you need to look at the competition facing Shankland, if Rodgers wants and gets that third striker, then he needs to have the ability to challenge what is ahead of him.

Shankland wouldn’t be able to do that, with Kyogo, not just levels above, but miles ahead of the Scotsman.

The Japan star has seven goals to his name this season, including five in the Premiership, with Idah doing better, in comparison to the minutes he is playing.

Talented Luis Palma found wanting in dirty side of the game

Mid-Season Friendly, Showgrounds, Sligo 9/10/2024 Sligo Rovers vs Celtic Celtic s Luis Palma celebrates with the match ball after scoring a hat trick Luis Palma celebrates with the match ball after scoring a hat trick 9/10/2024 Photo :INPHO/Tom Maher

Luis Palma was left out yet again yesterday. It’s now looking ominous for the Honduran international winger…

Celtic teamsheet versus Ross County, 30 November 2024

Luis Palma on Saturday was left out of the Celtic match-day squad for a third consecutive premiership match, leaving supporters to reach the conclusion that the the Honduran’s time at the club is drawing to a close.

It can’t be a coincidence, Luis is not injured as he’s been playing for Honduras recently, so it looks like he has fallen down the pecking order at Celtic with Brendan obviously preferring his four wingers of Kuhn, Maeda, Forrest and Yang. That leaves no room for a fifth winger in the squad and Palma will have to work hard to impress his manager or await an injury to perhaps open the door for him.

Honduras 2-0 Mexico Luis Palma celebrates his goal 2-0 of Honduras during the Quarterfinals first leg match between Honduras and Mexico as part of the Concacaf Nations League 2024-2025 at Francisco Morazan Stadium on November 15, 2024 in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. Photo Adrian Macias, IMAGO (The Celtic Star)

Luis doesn’t help himself either by uploading social media posts when the side are playing, and that attitude has angered some supporters, as well as the manager.

It’s a shame really as Luis Palma quite clearly has the talent to succeed at the club as he’s shown on more than a few occasions, but you can have all the ability in the world, but if your attitude isn’t right, then you won’t get far with an elite coach like Brendan Rodgers and a top club like Celtic.

30th October 2024 Celtic Park, Scottish Premiership Celtic versus Dundee Luis Palma of Celtic hits a pass while Ethan Ingram of Dundee tries to close him down Photo: ActionPlus David Young

It looks increasingly likely that a January move for Luis Palma is on the cards, either a loan or permanent deal if something can be arranged.

The Celtic squad has adapted brilliantly to how Brendan wants to team to play but there has obviously bene some players that have moved on because they aren;t suited to the manager’s plans. That is football.

30th October 2024 Celtic Park, Scottish Premiership Football, Celtic versus Dundee Lyall Cameron of Dundee shields the ball from Luis Palma of Celtic. Photo ActionPlus David Young

I think in this instance, it’s a move that will suit both parties as Luis Palma is clearly a talent. Playing as a winger and doing his part in the press is something that he has not been close to achieving. The dirty side of the game, the tracking back and the defending from the front. Kuhn and Maeda do it brilliantly, the latter being world class in that aspect of his game, but it’s more about the talent and the flair for Palma as he knows that he’s got both.

In the modern game it’s nowhere near enough.

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

Celtic Star Books – Buy Two Get One Free Offer!

A nice wee offer which runs from now until midnight on Wednesday 4th December. Order any two books from celticstarbooks.com then select a third book FREE OF CHARGE. Just put the two you are buying into the shopping cart and then in the notes section just mention the third book that you’d like. And if you want us to send that book to a different address, perhaps as a Christmas gift, in the UK then we’ll happily do that too!

Choose from the books shown below, although we are out of stock on The Celtic Rising and also Walfrid & The Bould Bhoys but the rest are available.

Rodgers eyes one signing to ‘complete’ Celtic as Hoops force Gary Lineker into unlikely statement – Parkhead news bulletin

Do Celtic need anything in January? One pundit thinks there’s one position in particular that needs some TLC

Brendan Rodgers just needs one signing to ‘complete’ his Celtic team – and while it would be expensive, he may get it in January.

That’s the view of pundit and former Celtic hero Pat Bonner who believes a new physical No.6 to ease the burden on Callum McGregor could be the final piece in Brendan Rodgers’ jigsaw. On the face of it, attacking signings appear the most likely for the Hoops next month, with Rodgers admitting he wants a third striker while reports suggest a new left-winger, perhaps to replace Luis Palma, could be on the agenda.

But Bonner thinks if Rodgers is going to improve the squad, he should look deeper within his system to do it. They’re hardly short on options there with immutable skipper McGregor joined by Reo Hatate, Arne Engels, Luke McCowan and Paulo Bernardo. But Bonner believes another physical presence would unlock a change of shape – and in doing so, ‘complete’ the squad.

He said on Sportsound: “Rodgers here for the period. He’s enjoying himself at the moment. He’s building a team. And I think there’s a little bit more to go on. I think he’ll go to the market again and try and find the player that could come in alongside Callum McGregor.

“Callum could play, actually, further forward for the team. But when it comes to Europe, where you’re looking for maybe two players to play in that number six, I think he could do with one, bigger, stronger, but still technically good player. And that may take a bit of money, but it could also be the one that would finish this team off.”

Celtic Fan’s Embarrassing SSB Rant

An entitled Celtic fan embarrassed himself on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard this evening after the Hoops romped to an emphatic 5-0 victory over Ross County in the Scottish Premiership.

Liam Scales, Luke McCowan, Paulo Bernardo, Adam Idah, and Callum McGregor all scored to put the Bhoys well in front at the break.

23rd November 2024; Tynecastle Park, Edinburgh, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Hearts versus Celtic; Adam Idah of Celtic celebrates after he shoots and scores from the penalty spot in the 94th minute to make it 4-1 to Celtic

Despite the Scottish Premiership champions’ electric first-half performance, the particular supporter who phoned in post-match had seen enough and left Parkhead to head home at the break.

He claimed that he is ‘bored’ of one, how good Celtic are, and two, the poor standard of their competition in Scotland. These claims are nothing but entitled, and the particular fan should take a long, hard look at himself.

It is genuinely puzzling how a Celtic supporter can become bored of domestic success.

For many years of their history, the Bhoys haven’t been as prosperous as they currently are in Scotland: the 1990s should be enough for any fan to never take anything – trophies or even the club’s existence – for granted again.

We are currently amidst one of the most trophy-laden spells in Celtic’s over 130-year history, and the fact the particular supporter on the radio tonight said he is bored of seeing ‘his team’ win should be enough to get his season ticket, if he even has one, blocked.

Apart from Celtic, few teams can lay a glove on their money mens recent financial acumen.

The present team is mix and match. Today’s squad selection proves this.

They can not only have a team on the park playing. Also they have one in reserve. Be almost a training game, in the second forty-five today.

Nothing wrong with this, but teams like Aberdeen have shown they can compete, until suspensions/injuries/loss of form mount up.

So should the Hoops squads statistics and medals.

Life’s a rollercoaster.

Amazing that you feel so strongly about that fan, even calling for the removal of his ST no less (!) yet happy to promote and support the GB scumbags who cost the club fortunes in UEFA fines, and have no interest in the club only themselves.

I dont agree with the guy but I would rather hear the views of a genuine STH than anyone from the GB.

Quite telling how the GB routinely now, totally ignore the iconic 67th minute of home games with genuine fans flashing their mob lights so that they can continue their pathetic, outdated, bigoted nonsense.

They will, no doubt, be counting up their pyro, sorry, “foodbank” fundraising campaign from yesterday.

I imagine they think the whole world will be impressed with whatever boring tifo/pyro display is exhibited on 15th Dec.

They need to know that no one cares.

Guy was pathetic tho reckon he some hun type motherwell/ oldco fan type plenty of these cretins in brigadoon scotland! Keep winning I love it!! Rodgers created the new Celtic winning machine n 2016 and its killing these huns with reversible scarves as the man said ” anyone but Celtic for these orcs! Another Treble on the way!! Yessss

Block that orc! On a champions site total weirdo!! They crave our validation and relevance! Never happening ! You let your club die ! Cause you didn’t cared you all used to for the hate and poison that spewed out of the cespit breeding ground of hate, but when old rangers needed you every last one of you turned your back!! Living g in Australia for years I saw it for my own two eyes ” snow off a dyke” soon as they leave brigadoon scotland they dropped oldco believe me, as they know they hate wont be tolerated utter poison! they never loved that club cause that can’t love they filled with hate! We are everywhere and proud as the man said ” we are Celtic and they are us” and in an age of Internet banking they let oldco perish! Pathetic God knows what celtic fans would raised in this era I reckon over 100 million easily!! We did in in 94! Pre net! But then we are a real ” Global club and only one in Scotland ” as their own director warned them in 2002! ” Hugh Adam” Go Check it out lurking orcs!! CELTIC a club built on unity , solidarity, charity and love! Oldco buil on poison hence it died! That cespit should been bulldozed in 2012 a stain on scotish society and everyone knows it!

Quite right about taking that fans ST from him, nothing should be taking for granted, like it was said we’ve went through very very lean years, years where we won nothing, didn’t even finish in the top 3, 4 or even 5th spot. So everyone should be enjoying every single win, every title, cup, doubles and trebles, all this success could end in an instant, even back to the baron years of the 90’s and even in the 80’s.

If he’s bored then don’t even turn up for games, if you have a ST give it to someone else to enjoy the team, and their well earned hard fought success, nothing comes easy, we might win 7 or 8 zero, but it could be a very hard fought game, despite the high scoreline.

Do us a favour and leave out the embarrassment of phoning into these anti celtic phone ins,ifes hard enough from the Scottish media, without you adding ammunition for them to use firing back at us.

Today was a hard fought well won game, the scoreline could easy have been 7 or 8 nil, Hamilton their stand in keeper pulled off some really good saves, we hit the woodwork twice as well.

Looking forward to a hard game against second placed Aberseen, our lead could be more if Hearts turn up for the game, they should as their bitter city rivals won yesterday, lifting them off the bottom 3 points clear of Hearts, they arw also now 2 goals to the good,, meaning if Hearts do win, they will need to score 3 or more goals to jump above Hibs.

First up it’s sevco up in Perth facing St Johnstone, sevco arw flying high after they conquered Europe once more, so today’s game could be the vital time for the perthshire team to beat sevco, it’s a big big game for both sevco and Aberdeen, he’ll it’s a huge game for Hearts as well, a lots riding on these 2 games and all four clubs will want to win.

Dazzling Daizen saves the day… but Rodgers was right when he predicted Celtic would suffer

Maeda wonder goal on hour mark salvages a point after Bhoys were often second best to Club Brugge 

Cameron Carter-Vickers’ howler of an own goal set the tone in a first half where Celtic struggled 

But Rodgers will be happy enough with a draw which keeps team on track for last-16 play-offs in Champions League 

Celtic 1 Club Brugge 1

Brendan Rodgers proved a sound judge in the end. To maintain a solid, steady path to the play-offs of the Champions League, this was a night when Celtic had to suffer.

There can be no sugar-coating this; for 60 minutes this was an agonising test of nerve for Scotland’s champions.

Falling behind to an excruciating,Keystone Kops own goal from Cameron Carter-Vickers, the home team were second best for extended periods.

There was no control and no composure to speak of. Truth be told, Club Brugge could — and should — have been out of sight.

An equaliser came from nowhere, with timely substitutions changing the course of the game.

The introduction of Paulo Bernardo and Alex Valle reaped an instant dividend when, just a minute later, Daizen Maeda curled a sublime strike into the far corner of the net, off the inside of the post, for 1-1. And the power of Parkhead finally flicked on.

Maeda runs away in delight after his precious equaliser for Celtic

The Japanese international winger scored on the hour mark with a wonder strike

Rodgers congratulates scorer Maeda after the 1-1 draw with Club Brugge

The final stages of the game threatened a late, improbable Celtic win. Against a fast, talented, dangerous Brugge side, a point was fine in the end.

With five games played, eight points preserves hopes of a finish in the top 24 of the single league format. After a torrid, unnerving first half, Rodgers and his team would have taken that.

They lost a goal after 26 minutes, which was careless, panic-stricken, and error strewn. In truth, it summed up their general performance for an hour.

After three home wins on the bounce, hopes of striding into the play-offs with a performance to match the exhilarating drama of the last game against Leipzig proved overly optimistic.

A good deal better than anyone gave them credit for pre-match, Nicky Hayen’s Brugge side passed the ball calmly with precision, attacked with menace, closed down the space and pressed and harried Celtic into mistakes. And, as they say often enough, at this level, the home side were brutally punished for those errors.

With his back to the opposition goal, Nicolas Kuhn was forced to run towards his own. The only option for a pass was Carter-Vickers in his own 18-yard box.

Over his three years in Glasgow, the American has missed more Champions League games than Celtic would have liked. How he must have wished he’d given this one a wide berth when, to gaping mouths and aghast reactions, he turned towards his own goal and, without checking the position of goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, passed it straight into the bottom corner of his own unguarded net.

The goal was a just reward for 26 minutes when the Belgians had clobbered Celtic. As players in blue and black celebrated, not quite sure who to congratulate, Callum McGregor gathered the home team for an impromptu huddle. They’d been so far off the pace, so comprehensively outplayed, it couldn’t go on.

Carter Vickers gave Brugge a shock lead when he passed the ball into his own net

The American defender didn’t know where to look after his howler of an own goal

Carter Vickers was consoled by his fellow defender Johnston

Losing the opening goal to RB Leipzig, Celtic had found a way back. This one looked a good deal tougher. By half-time, they were thankful to get in a single goal down, the performance the polar opposite of what had gone last time out.

Brugge had only scored four goals in their last nine Champions League games and a failure to take chances cost them again here. They should have been out of sight long before Celtic gained a foothold in the game.

There had been an ominous portent of what was to come when Reo Hatate surrendered possession with his back to goal after four minutes. Ferran Jutgla’s left-foot strike fizzed inches wide of Schmeichel’s left-hand post.

In the opening 12 minutes alone, the visitors enjoyed 60-per-cent possession, reducing the crowd to an apprehensive hush. Passing the ball as if they were performing in slippers. Celtic’s midfield — Hatate and Arne Engels in particular — couldn’t get near them.

Not for the first time, this was a night when £11million signing Engels — a former Brugge player — was off it.

Celtic’s threat was too sporadic. When Kuhn cut in from the right at the end of the half and floated one of his crosses into the six-yard box, Hatate threw himself at a diving header which gave Simon Mignolet no real issues. It was something, at least.

At no point in the first half had the home team exerted any measure of control.

How close they came to going two behind in the opening seconds after the restart. A lightning quick Brugge counter crafted a shooting chance for left-back Maxim De Cuyper. It took a superb fingertip save from Schmeichel to prevent the game slipping away.

Club Brugge proved a tough opponent and Celtic were often second best to the Belgian side

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers was happy enough with the point after a difficult night

Celtic’s best effort on goal came moments later. Foraging for the ball in a way they’d conspicuously failed to do in the first half, McGregor rolled a square pass to Hatate in a rare shaft of space 18 yards from goal. A thumping left- foot strike went inches wide.

When Andreas Skov Olsen blazed a glorious Brugge chance over the bar on the volley, something had to change.

The introduction of Bernardo for a flailing Engels was overdue. The impact of the lively Valle for Greg Taylor was instant.

The Spaniard had been on the pitch a matter of seconds when he laid the ball on for Maeda on the left side of the area. A drag back and a cut inside Joaquin Seys ended in a strike careering off the inside of the upright.

Minutes after he was jeered for giving the ball away, the Japanese attacker had dragged Celtic back into a game where they’d been second best.

The relief looked short-lived when Brugge, working in tight confines, squeezed the ball into the net via Jutgla. The celebrations of the away players and support were cut short by the narrowest of offsides. How welcome VAR was when the striker’s heel was just inches off.

Game management saw them through on a night when a late Parkhead winner would have been an act of grand larceny.

As the manager said, there’s no code to cracking the Champions League. When the pain and the suffering ended, this was a very acceptable point.

Alistair Johnston hails valuable point won

First Team

By Joe Sullivan

Depending on the circumstances, there will always be debates on whether a draw is point won or two points lost.

Coming back from a goal down would tend to point towards the point won theory – to come back and equalise at Champions League level against a side of the expertise as Club Brugge is a stick-on point won, and that was not lost on Hoops defender, Alistair Johnston.

The Canadian told Celtic TV after the game: “At this level, every point is hard-earned and it adds up, I think that’s the most important thing.

“The gaffer made a great point that if you’re not going to win a match, you make sure that you don’t lose it at this level, especially at home.

“We didn’t have a great first half, we went in 1-0 down and they were causing us quite a bit of problems, but we came out in the second half and made some tactical changes.

“I think that really helped and, again, I can’t fault the guys’ effort, the guys put everything into that.

“But, at the same time, I think both teams will look at that and feel that a draw is pretty fair.”

He added: “I don’t think that they created a ton, I don’t think we created a ton. I thought we were in the ascendency and looked more likely to score a winner after their ‘goal’ was called back, but we’ve got to move with one point and take it from there.

“I think that we expected them to come out and be pretty positive , but at the same time I think that they’ve shown in previous matches they were a bit more aggressive at home than away.

“So I think that kind of surprised us a little bit, but I think that our ability to change at half time shows how far we’ve come in terms of that we weren’t just going to let that go idle and just accept that.

“We know we really changed how we pressed and it was a lot more difficult in the second half for them to get out.

“We saw in the second half that we were a lot more compact and comfortable with going man to man all over the pitch, and making it more difficult for them.”

Rodgers praises Celtic’s mentality after Maeda wonder strike rescues valuable Champions League point

Brendan Rodgers hailed Daizen Maeda’s wonder strike and the resilience of his Celtic players after they dug themselves out of a Champions League hole.

A calamitous first-half own goal from Cameron Carter-Vickers saw the Parkhead side fall behind to Belgian champions Club Brugge.

But Maeda’s superb equaliser on the hour mark dragged the home side back into a game where they were second best for long spells.

Eight points from five games preserves hopes of securing a place in the last-16 play-off round. Yet the performance was in sharp contrast to the last home game, an exhilarating 3-1 win over RB Leipzig, and Rodgers saw a different side to his team.

‘This is what building confidence at this level is about,’ he said. ‘You won’t always be able to play a perfect game where you’re so good with the ball, you’re so good in your pressing.

‘At moments, other things will  happen in the game and you have to be able to adapt.

Rodgers says his players dug deep when they were not at their best against Club Brugge

Daizen Maeda earned Celtic a point with his superb strike into the far corner of the net

Defender Cameron Carter-Vickers had to pick himself up after scoring a calamitous own goal

‘When it’s not quite right, can you dig yourself out? I think we can say that with this team. It’s what, 20 games now and we’ve won 16 and drawn three and lost one. So, it shows the mentality is there.

‘We’re very proud of them for that second-half mentality. It would have been very easy to not play with the courage, continue with that pressing mentality.

‘The first half, we were too passive in our pressing and we were never in contention with them. They’re a good side. You can see that.

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Dazzling Daizen saves the day… but Rodgers was right when he predicted Celtic would suffer 

‘But the players absolutely drew a line under the first half and it was a much, much better second half.

‘Fantastic goal by Daizen. And, from then, it felt like we could go on and win the game.

‘A point at this level, like we’ve seen in Atalanta, it’s so important. I’ve been in enough of these games and sat here enough times to be in a game like that and you end up losing it.

‘It’s a great credit to the players and how they fought right to the end.’

Now unbeaten in three Champions League games, the Parkhead side have still to face Dinamo Zagreb away, Young Boys of Switzerland in Glasgow and Aston Villa in Birmingham. Two points from their last nine should be enough to claim a place in the play-offs at least.

Rodgers was proud of the way Carter-Vickers bounced back from an excruciating error when he failed to see where Kasper Schmeichel was positioned and passed the ball into his own net.

‘Mistakes happen and it was just unfortunate,’ he said. ‘He’s played that pass a million times and it’s gone back and then we’ve been able to play forward. It’s just one of those unfortunate moments in the game that happen for you.

‘But he’s a really, really tough character. He’s a great guy. He picked himself up.’

‘I Made Sure His Head Was Up’ – Auston Trusty Reveals Moment of Support After CCV Own Goal

Celtic defender Auston Trusty had yet another great night at the heart of the Celtic defence, with the USA international continuing a superb few months at the club.

After a shaky start to life at Celtic, Trusty has well and truly found his feet alongside fellow countryman Cameron Carter-Vickers, displacing Liam Scales.

However, after an own goal this evening, Trusty spoke of his reaction to Carter-Vickers’ own goal against Brugge.

He said: (Daily Record), “We have his back. I don’t think any defender, any player, wants that to happen to him. But, you know, sometimes it’s part of football. I’ve had own goals as well, so it’s one where you need a teammate to get your back.

“So I went over to him, made sure his head was up. With all of us, he knows that we have his back. You don’t want to make mistakes, but you feel fine to make mistakes, because you know your teammates have your back.

“The game happened so fast, so I’m not in that position. I’m looking away, I’m also looking, I’m trying to find my next pass as well, so I have to go back and watch it. But either way, he made the decision, we have his back.

“He showed his character and also the team showed its character. We bounced back and the game went on and we had plenty of life left in it.”

Soccer Football – Champions League – Celtic v Club Brugge – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – November 27, 2024 Celtic’s Cameron Carter-Vickers scores Club Brugge’s first with an own goal REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

In an uncharacteristically poor moment from Carter-Vickers to pass into the empty net, Trusty took a moment to console him, showing the kind of human being he is and highlighting what the dressing room is like at Celtic.

The close-knit nature of the team has resulted in some great performances this season, but when things go wrong, it’s great to see teammates supporting each other rather than blaming them for mistakes.

Champions League quick hits: Kylian Mbappé and Mo Salah miss penalties for Real Madrid and Liverpool, Celtic’s Cameron Carter-Vickers scores own goal

Mo Salah (left) and Kylian Mbappe (centre) could not convert, and Cameron Carter-Vickers (right) wished he hadn’t.

Kylian Mbappé and Mo Salah miss penalties, Cameron Carter-Vickers scores a shocking own goal for Celtic, and Pep Guardiola apologises for an ill-advised joke.

Here are five quick hits from another day of Champions League contests.

1. No-look disaster for Celtic

Celtic defender Cameron Carter-Vickers threw his hands in the air before his own goal crossed the line to give Club Brugge the lead in their Champions League clash

The US international played a no-look pass back from just outside the six-yard box toward his own net where he thought goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel would be.

Schmeichel had played a pass out to defender Alistair Johnson, who found Nicolas-Gerrit Kühn steaming back onto the ball. Schmeichel slid out to the right as Kühn played the ball to Carter-Vickers, who turned and rolled a ball towards the now-vacant goal.

The ball rolled slowly into the bottom corner of the goal as the veteran Denmark goalkeeper raced helplessly across his line, narrowly avoiding crashing into the goal post.

The unforced error by Carter-Vickers gifted Club Brugge a 26th-minute lead at Celtic Park, but Daizen Maeda saved Carter-Vickers’s blushes with a 60th-minute equaliser as the game ended in a 1-1 draw.

2. Mbappé and Mo miss out

Caoimhín Kelleher made a brilliant stop to keep Liverpool up 1-0. (Getty Images: Justin Setterfield)

Things could have gone so differently for Real Madrid in its clash with Liverpool at Anfield if not for a brilliant save by goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher from a Kylian Mbappé penalty.

After Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring for the Reds, Mbappé let slip a chance to level the scores with a 61st-minute penalty, but Kelleher made a brilliant save, diving to his left and deflecting the ball clear.

In evidence that lightning can strike twice, gun forward Mo Salah also missed out from the penalty spot 9 minutes later, slicing his shot wide left as Thibaut Courtois dove the wrong way.

Cody Gakpo eventually made up for Salah’s miss, as Liverpool remained perfect with five wins from five games while the Spanish giants have just two wins.

3. PSV’s stunning comeback

PSV Eindhoven pulled off a miraculous comeback against Shakhtar Donetsk, scoring three times in the last eight minutes of the match to win 3-2.

The Dutch champions looked set for their second loss from their first five games after Danylo Sikan and Oleksandr Zubkov gave Shakhtar a 2-0 first-half lead.

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PSV peppered the Ukrainian side’s goal with 18 shots on target in the match, compared to just three from Shakhtar, but did not break through until after Pedro Henrique was sent off for a dangerous challenge on Johan Bakayoko in the 69th minute.

The one-man advantage allowed PSV to pile on the pressure and eventually broke through when Malik Tillman’s free kick squeezed in at the near post as goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk failed to hold on to the ball.

Riznyk had been one of the side’s heroes up to then, dealing with everything the Dutch threw his way, but he had no chance when Tillman cued up a long-range effort on the stroke of full-time.

The panic-stricken visitors then allowed PSV to slide in the winner as Ricardo Pepi finished off a series of passes across the face of goal, with an effort that went in off the post, to the delirious delight of the home support.

4. Guardiola apologises for ‘self harm’ joke

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said he did not intend to make light of the “very serious issue of self harm” with a joke he made after his side’s 3-3 draw with Feyenoord at Etihad Stadium.

Guardiola was asked in the post-match press conference how he got a cut on his nose, and he replied: “With my finger, my nail. I want to harm myself.”

The 53-year-old took to social media a day later to explain his answer.

“I was caught off guard with a question at the end of a press conference last night about a scratch which had appeared on my face and explained that a sharp fingernail had accidentally caused this,” he posted on X.

“My answer was in no way intended to make light of the very serious issue of self harm.”

5. French fans stabbed before Bologna game

French club Lille said two of its supporters were stabbed when a group of fans were attacked in a bar ahead of its 2-1 win at Bologna.

Lille issued a statement on social media condemning “this cowardly and intolerable attack”, which it said happened the day before the game.

“During the ambush, which is believed to have involved around 80 assailants, two of our supporters sustained stab wounds, among other injuries, and were given medical treatment,” Lille said.

Lille said Italian police have reinforced the protection of its fans ahead of the game.

“However, LOSC calls on its supporters in Bologna to be extremely vigilant, to ensure that the trip takes place in safe conditions,” the club said.

Brendan Rodgers praises Celtic fightback after ‘unfortunate’ mistake

Rodgers said his side showed the right mentality in their 1-1 draw with Club Brugge.

Play VideoSNS GroupPraise: Brendan Rodgers took the positives from the 1-1 draw.

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers praised his side for their spirited fightback in the 1-1 draw with Club Brugge and said every point was valuable at Champions League level.

Rodgers said he had seen “a game of two halves” after his side feel behind to a Cameron Carter-Vickers own goal early on but responded in the second half with a Daizen Maeda strike that earned a draw.

The Belgian visitors had the best of the opening exchanges, and could have been further ahead before the break but Celtic adjusted and created chances of their own that had them leaving the pitch feeling they could have done better.

“I thought first half we were too passive in our pressing,” the manager said. “We were never in contention with them.

“They’re a good side, you can see that. And then they played through that pressure really well. So I thought first half, they were the better team.

“I thought we were the better team in the second half. We got a great goal and they defended well.

“They man-mark so you really have to work the ball and probe and get it side to side to penetrate. And we did that for the goal, a fantastic goal by Daizen.

“From then it felt like we could go on and win the game. But listen, a point at this level, like we saw in Atlanta, it’s so important and I’ve been in enough of these games and sat here enough times to be in a game like that and you end up losing it.

“We didn’t do that. And it’s a great credit to the players and how they fought right to the end.”

Rodgers also praised Carter-Vickers for how he put an uncharacteristic error aside to play his part in Celtic’s fightback. The centre-back failed to note Kasper Schmeichel was out of position when he rolled a pass back towards goal and watched in anguish as it rolled over the line and into the bottom corner of the net.

“Mistakes happen and it was just unfortunate,” he said. “He’s played that pass a million times and it’s gone back and then we’ve been able to play forward.

“It was just one of those unfortunate moments in the game that happens.

“But he’s a really, really tough character. He’s a great guy, he picked himself up.

“He was really strong and aggressive again in the game and got on with it and had a real bravery in the second half, because he was the one carrying the ball forward for us to start the attack.”

Overall, Rodgers was happy to take the positives and look at another point gained as Celtic look to reach the knockout stages.

“We’re still one of those teams that’s really pushing to try and make a mark at this level,” he said.

“So to make the comeback, score the goal, play with that courage, I was so pleased.

Cameron Carter-Vickers’ horror own goal cruels Celtic’s chances at Champions League victory

Celtic concede embarrassing own goal

Celtic defender Cameron Carter-Vickers raised his hands to his head in despair before his own goal crossed the line to give Club Brugge the lead in a Champions League match that ended in a 1-1 draw.

The United States international played a no-look pass back from 10 metres toward his own net where he thought goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel would be.

Schmeichel was not there, and the ball rolled slowly into the corner of the goal as the veteran Denmark goalkeeper raced helplessly across his line. He narrowly avoiding crashing into the goal post.

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Cameron Carter-Vickers’ own goal led to despair.  Stan Sport

The unforced error by Carter-Vickers gifted Club Brugge a 26th-minute lead at Celtic Park.

“All I can say is this, Club Brugge, after getting the penalty from Tyrone Mings against Aston Villa last round have now been handed another goal,” former Manchester United goalkeeper Mark Bosnich said on Stan Sport’s Champions League coverage.

“The only thing I can say is he’s quite obviously thought Kasper Schmeichel was right behind him but he was not. It’s also a good direction for any young goalkeeper watching that unless it’s absolutely necessary, which then it wasn’t, you stay in your middle of your goal in a position where you can save it regardless of whether you have possession or not.

“You’ve got to know your players as well, it’s very difficult for players to do a full 180 degrees in a tight situation and pass the ball … that will be replayed for some time.”

“Unbelievable,” Craig Foster added.

Celtic has impressed in the Champions League this season and earned another point after Japan international Daizen Maeda’s goal in the 60th minute.

The Scottish champion is 20th in the 36-team standings with eight points, which UEFA projected before the season as likely enough to advance to the knockout stage.

Celtic is away to Dinamo Zagreb on December 10, with games in January against last-placed Young Boys and Aston Villa.

The top eight teams in January go directly to the round of 16 in March, and teams placed from ninth to 24th enter a playoffs round in February. Those two-leg playoffs will decide the other eight round of 16 teams.

Sunderland ‘watch’ Celtic striker ahead of transfer window but face competition from Burnley and Fulham

Sunderland have reportedly sent scouts to watch the 18-year-old Celtic striker play in Europe

Sunderland are one of several clubs showing an interest in 18-year-old Celtic striker Daniel Cummins having watched the player’s most recent youth game.

Football Insider’s Peter O’Rourke claims that Wolves, Fulham, Ipswich, Sunderland and Burnley watched Cummings score his fifth goal in five in Europe recently ahead of the January transfer window.

The Celtic supporter signed his first professional contract during the summer of 2022. Last season, Cummings made his breakthrough in the Lowland League Celtic B team, where he established himself as a prolific goalscorer the following season and has netted 32 times in 43

In May 2023, the attacker scored the decider in a 6-5 win against Rangers in the Scottish Youth Cup final, attracting national headlines and has started this season averaging more than a goal per game with the B team while also playing for Celtic’s youth teams in the league and in Europe.