Roll up, roll up, roll up, Celtic Park’s fantastic title giveaway is already underway

Yesterday morning, before we played Kilmarnock, I tried to be positive.

In my article, I stated we needed to lay down a marker, rating a hatful towards McInnes’ side, and put some intention difference between us and the Ibrox side.

Instead this morning, we’re a factor ahead, with one game more played.

What I witnessed on the park the day prior to this has killed, totally and utterly, any optimism that I had left with regard to us triumphing this title.

I don’t even choose to go into the game, there’s nothing high-quality to speak about.

I cannot, in all conscience, proceed to be in any way high-quality about what’s going on at Celtic Park.

It is nearly like gazing a shut relative succumbing to a terminal illness, and feeling definitely powerless in the expertise that there’s nothing you can do to quit it.

I suppose that’s how many of us experience proper now.

I put a few posts up on the Read Celtic Facebook web page yesterday, and the reactions I received exceptionally a great deal spoke volumes.

There used to be no person pronouncing we’ll pull this out of the bag.

Nobody announcing we’ll locate our shape and win this title.

No Lawwell fans on announcing that the board are doing a awesome job.

THERE WAS JUST A TOTAL AIR OF RESIGNATION FROM ALL CELTIC FANS THAT THIS TITLE IS GONE.

Nobody sees us winning it now.

Nobody.

Collectively, as a fanbase, board supporters or not, most, if not all, are starting to wake up to the realisation that the terrific title giveaway is now in full swing at Celtic Park.

While Chairman for life, Peter Lawwell, is fiddling away, whilst Rome burns.

Not once, however twice, if what we all count on to unfold happens, will he have overseen the concession of a league title to a 12 year old economic basket case of a club.

A club, which yr on yr considering the fact that it crawled out of the grave of it’s predecessor, has recorded financial losses in the tens of millions.

He will have managed to pull off this incredible feat with £70 million in funds sitting in the bank gathering interest.

You’ve acquired to hand it to Peter Lawwell, he actually knows how to suck the life out of this club.

Since he got here lower back in January 2023, the club has deteriorated into something almost unrecognisable, in comparison to what it used to be earlier than his return in the area of simply over a year.

CULMINATING IN THE ABSOLUTE SHAMBLES WE WITNESSED AT CELTIC PARK YESTERDAY AFTERNOON.

Celtic is in reality an elevator that is headed down, whilst after this afternoon in Perth, the Ibrox elevator will most probable have eventually surpassed us on it’s way up.

Even, if with the aid of some sort of miracle, they drop points there, I don’t believe our current squad has the belly for this title race.

Personally, I have the equal feeling I had 3 years ago.

I have now resigned myself to the reality that we aren’t succesful of triumphing this title.

If, by using the end of the season, we are second, I will have performed my mourning well in boost of that outcome.

Just as I did three years ago.

Anything after that is a bonus.

As I predicted in an article a couple of days ago, the media are wetting themselves at the prospect of the Messiah turning in the title to Ibrox.

None greater so than Hugh Keevins, who, in an article in this morning’s Record engages in hitherto unseen degrees of sycophancy as he fawns over Philippe Clement.

He likens him to Walter Smith, after much less than 4 months in charge.

OUR CLUB IS GIVING CRETINS IN THE MEDIA LIKE KEEVINS OXYGEN TO SPOUT THIS KIND OF TRIPE.

This is as self inflicted as it comes.

We’ve drawn all of this on ourselves, well, we haven’t, however Peter Lawwell and his cronies have.

The absentee Landlord is genuinely more interested in his golf exploits, than he is in the membership that matters to tens of lots of us fans.

I’ve been over the course time, and time again, in relation to the failings of the Celtic board this season.

I’m sick of discussing them, we’re all acutely conscious of what they are.

After yesterday, I can no longer proceed to defend Brendan Rodgers either.

He general this mediocrity from them, and he looked hapless at times on the sideline yesterday.

It’s a sad day in your management profession when the likes of Derek McInnes has your measure.

McInnes has owned Rodgers this season, with a squad of players that value a fraction of ours.

The Irony in all of this is that it might also be down to one club that we give up up trophyless this season.

And that membership doesn’t play out of Ibrox.

Kilmarnock fee us a shot at the League Cup.

They’ve now taken 4 critical factors off us in the league, which ought to sooner or later value us that competition as well.

If we move paths in the cup, I wouldn’t be assured we’d have their measure there either.

Especially after what I witnessed yesterday.

RODGERS REFUSAL TO CHANGE HIS STYLE TO ADAPT TO THE DEMANDS OF THIS LEAGUE IS WHAT WILL ULTIMATELY COST HIM HIS JOB.

One of my everyday commenters on Read Celtic, Michael O’Hare, had this say, and he doesn’t miss the mark:

When the supervisor suggests his players didn’t do this or that as he expected, then he need to ask the question, “Why not?” That’s his job, that’s what he’s paid for.
What is clear to me is that Rogers’ past records has been profitable to start with, but as time has lapsed that success waned. It occurred at Liverpool and Leicester City. The cause is handy to determine. Adopting a particular style of tactical play, to the factor of rigidity, is complete madness. It doesn’t take lengthy for the opposition to read the game and make the splendid response to counter it. Rogers final 15 video games at Leicester City proved that. Even now, he nevertheless adopts the equal blasé mind-set in publish in shape interviews. I regard that as insulting – we are now not idiots. He has got a proper squad of players to choose from. If his preferred gadget is now not effective, then exchange it as an alternative of digging a deeper hole

There’s nothing I can add to that.

It hits the nail on the head.

That, combined with our inept, flaccid, and useless board, is what will fee us the title this season.

At the time of writing, the Ibrox aspect are 1-0 up at St. Johnstone.

A 1/2 an hour from now, they should be top.

Roll up, roll up, roll up, the brilliant title giveaway is in full swing at Celtic Park!

There’s nothing else I can name it.

Cheers Pete!

Celtic supporters show up to the Rangers Women game and send a message to the Ibrox club despite all away tickets being cancelled

Several wore T-shirts exhibiting the message ‘football without followers is nothing’ – an obvious dig at the Ibrox club for travelling followers out.

Celtic followers were seen celebrating in Ibrox at full-time of the SWPL derby clash – no matter Rangers cancelling ALL away tickets at quick notice.

Fans from both aspects had been set to be in attendance for the table-topping showdown however Rangers announced late closing week that all tickets for away punters had been pulled. They claimed this was due to Genius received that ‘risk’ supporters had purchased briefs, however Celtic launched a declaration branding the selection ‘hugely disappointing.’

But where there’s a will, there is a way for some fans. The game, which completed 1-1 after Natasha Flint’s purpose early in the 2nd 1/2 was cancelled out by Rangers’ Mia McAulay, used to be broadcast live on BBC Alba. And TV cameras caught photos of the players celebrating with a small range of touring followers who had determined their way into the stadium. As they applauded their heroes, several wore T-shirts displaying the message ‘football barring followers is nothing’ – an obvious dig at the Ibrox club for travelling followers out.

It comes amid the backdrop of a impasse between the men’s teams who still refuse to permit away fans into Ibrox or Parkhead for league derbies. The Light Blues offered Celtic tickets for the conflict at Ibrox in September but the Hoops rejected any allocation, citing safety fears.

It stays to be viewed if that deadlock can be resolved before the give up of the season with the next men’s Premiership derby due to take area on April 7. The female will also meet again at least as soon as this time period but the post-split fixtures are but to be announced.

Callum William McGregor comments on Celtic dressing room admission

Celtic’s Title Hopes Dented: Concerns Over Squad Understanding the Standard

Celtic’s title hopes took a hit with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Kilmarnock, leaving them unable to retake a three-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership. Kyogo’s opening goal was not enough as Kilmarnock’s David Watson secured a late equalizer, prompting concerns about the team’s performance.

Rodgers Takes Responsibility, McGregor Acknowledges Concerns

Manager Brendan Rodgers took responsibility for the result, and post-match, captain Callum McGregor addressed concerns about the squad’s understanding of the required standard. McGregor emphasized the need for effective communication to make players aware that a certain standard is essential every time they step onto the pitch.

Communication Breakdown and Unmet Standards

McGregor’s statement raises questions about the communication within the squad and suggests that some players may not fully grasp the consistently high standard expected at Celtic. The skipper acknowledged the recurring situation and hinted at a potential breakdown in conveying the required level of performance to some members of the team.11th February 2024; St Mirren Park, Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland, Scottish Cup Football, St Mirren versus Celtic; Callum McGregor of Celtic

Changes in the Squad and Concerns Over New Names

While there have been a few alterations to the squad from last season to the current one, with new names regularly among the substitutes, McGregor’s comments indicate that there might be a lack of understanding among some players about the club’s standards. Fans are expressing concerns about how the manager is managing and communicating these expectations to ensure a cohesive and high-performing team.

Long-Term Impact on Title Aspirations

With title aspirations at stake, McGregor’s candid remarks shed light on potential issues within the squad. The need for effective communication and understanding of the expected standards is crucial for Celtic to navigate the challenges of the season successfully. The concerns raised by McGregor amplify the urgency for addressing any communication breakdowns and reinforcing a unified understanding of the performance standards required for the team’s success.

‘Fabulous’ – Mikey Johnston’s performance as West Brom ‘enraged’ against Soton left a Sky Sports Pundit speechless

Controversial Incident in West Brom vs. Southampton: Mikey Johnston’s Cross and Handball Shout

In the West Brom vs. Southampton match, Mikey Johnston’s cross that led to a handball incident was praised by Sky Sports pundit Andy Hinchcliffe on 16 February. Johnston’s cross found Darnell Furlong, whose volley was blocked by Jack Stephens’ hand in the Southampton box.

Hinchcliffe described the cross as “fabulous” and acknowledged that West Brom had a legitimate reason to be “enraged” at the lack of a penalty award by the unsighted referee, Sam Allison. The incident occurred in first-half stoppage time and could have potentially changed the course of the game.

While Hinchcliffe sympathized with the difficulty the referee faced in spotting the handball due to Stephens’ body obstructing the view, he highlighted the contentious nature of the situation. Despite the handball shout controversy, Stephens later made an incredible clearance off the line to deny Okay Yokuslu’s header.

Furlong was convinced he had won West Brom a penalty

The match ended with West Brom losing 2-0, and the controversial incident added to the frustrations for the home side, already dealing with a bizarre red card and an early goal from Southampton.

Mikey Johnston, on loan from Celtic, has previously made an impact for West Brom, scoring his first goal in just his third appearance. The decision to substitute him during the game raised eyebrows, especially as the home side was chasing the game.

The match, marked by the controversial incident, ultimately fell flat, leaving West Brom fans disappointed after the excitement surrounding the Shilen Patel takeover news.

Key Points:

• Mikey Johnston’s cross leading to a handball incident was praised by pundit Andy Hinchcliffe.
• West Brom had a legitimate reason to be “enraged” at the lack of a penalty award.
• The contentious handball incident occurred in first-half stoppage time.
• Jack Stephens’ handball and subsequent clearance off the line added to the match’s controversy.
• West Brom lost the game 2-0, with frustrations mounting due to various incidents during the match.

“To be honest,” Celtic winger claims that his departure was caused by “frustrating” circumstances

Mikey Johnston’s Impact at West Bromwich Albion and Celtic Departure

Celtic winger Mikey Johnston, having joined West Bromwich Albion on deadline day, has swiftly made an impact by scoring on his first start for the Baggies in a 2-0 victory over Birmingham City in the Sky Bet Championship.

Challenges at Celtic

Despite his talent and trickery, Johnston faced challenges at Celtic, where concerns about end product and fitness issues affected his confidence. Brendan Rodgers had previously emphasized the need for the player to add physical bravery and robustness to his game to secure a regular spot in the first team.

Positive Start at West Brom

Thriving away from the pressure at Celtic, Johnston’s positive start at West Brom provides him with an opportunity to develop and showcase his abilities. At 25, time is of the essence for the Irish winger, and a successful stint at West Brom could potentially open doors for a more prominent role upon his return to Celtic.

Johnston’s Honest Reasons for Departure

In a candid statement, Johnston revealed the frustration of sporadic playing time at Celtic and emphasized the importance of leaving Parkhead for his career. He acknowledged the Championship as a great place for player development and expressed gratitude for the opportunity at West Brom.

Intriguing Comments and Player’s Progression

Johnston’s comments add intrigue to his departure from Celtic, acknowledging the challenges he faced and the need for consistent playing time. While making a definitive case for him to be a regular starter at Celtic might be challenging, his potential match-winning attributes could shine through with consistent development.

Looking Ahead and Potential Return

As Johnston continues to progress and gain valuable game-time at West Brom, his return to Celtic in the summer will be awaited with anticipation. The winger’s journey in the West Midlands provides a platform for personal and footballing growth, potentially shaping his role upon rejoining the Scottish Premiership holders.

‘He’s a shadow’: John Hartson now says ‘excellent’ 22-year-old player could depart Celtic shortly

John Hartson Raises Concerns Over Liel Abada’s Form at Celtic

Former Celtic striker, John Hartson, has expressed concerns about Liel Abada’s recent drop in form, suggesting that it might be time for the Israeli winger to consider leaving the club if he continues to be excluded from the first team.

Devoid of Confidence

Hartson, speaking on The Go Radio Football Show, highlighted that Abada appears to be lacking confidence and has become a shadow of the player who initially made a significant impact upon his arrival. Despite an impressive start alongside Jota, Abada has faced injury setbacks that have hindered his ability to replicate his earlier form.

The Dilemma for Abada and Celtic

The former Celtic striker emphasized that if Abada continues to be sidelined without featuring in the first team, it might be in the best interest of both the player and the club for him to seek regular football elsewhere. Acknowledging the challenges faced by a player who was once a key contributor but is now struggling to replicate past performances, Hartson suggests a departure could be a viable solution.

Abada’s Impactful History

Reflecting on Abada’s history at Celtic, Hartson acknowledged the player’s pivotal role in Ange Postecoglou’s transformation of the club into record-breaking Treble winners. Abada’s goals and assists played a crucial part in defeating rivals, including scoring in the Scottish Cup Final win over Inverness, contributing to Celtic’s eighth domestic treble.

Hope for a Resurgence

While the prospect of Abada leaving Celtic might have been met with resistance in the past, Hartson suggests that the situation could evolve based on the player’s form and role in the team for the rest of the season. Celtic fans, familiar with Abada’s ability to rise to the occasion when needed, hope for a resurgence that could see him reclaim the impactful role he once held.

As the Abada story unfolds, the outcome remains uncertain, with the possibility of a return to form or a departure for a fresh start hanging in the balance. Celtic supporters, eager for success, remain optimistic about the talented winger’s potential resurgence on the pitch.

SFA confirms the kickoff time for the Scottish Cup Final.

Scottish Cup Final 2024: Date and Kick-Off Time Confirmed

The Scottish Football Association (SFA) has officially announced the date and kick-off time for the eagerly anticipated Scottish Cup Final in 2024. Following the recent Fifth Round fixtures, the footballing authorities have set the stage for the grand showdown.

Key Details:

• Date: Saturday, 25th May 2024
• Kick-Off Time: 3:00 pm

This announcement comes after Ange Postecoglou’s historic Treble victory in June, where Celtic triumphed over Inverness CT. Now, under the leadership of Brendan Rodgers, Celtic aims to once again grace the showpiece final and continue their pursuit of silverware.

🏆 Following last night’s draw, it has now been confirmed that the 2023-24 @scottishgas Men’s Scottish Cup Final will kick off at 3pm, on Saturday, 25 May.

Click below to read more ⤵️#ScottishCup

— Scottish Gas Scottish Cup (@ScottishCup) February 12, 2024

Quarter Final Progression:

Celtic secured their place in the Quarter Finals with a notable victory over St Mirren in Paisley. Brendan Rodgers and his team are now set to face Livingston in the next round. The upcoming clash against David Martindale’s side will determine whether Celtic can advance to the prestigious Hampden stage.

Rodgers’ Unbeaten Record:

Brendan Rodgers boasts an impressive unbeaten record in the Scottish Cup, having clinched two titles in his first spell at the club. The manager’s success in the tournament adds an extra layer of anticipation as Celtic strives for further glory.

As the countdown to the Scottish Cup Final begins, fans eagerly await the outcome of Celtic’s journey through the tournament under the guidance of Brendan Rodgers. The confirmation of the date and kick-off time marks a pivotal moment in the football calendar, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthralling final.

‘Superb’… On Sunday, St Mirren manager Stephen Robinson was astounded by a Celtics player who makes £15,000 a week

St Mirren manager, Stephen Robinson, has shared how he was blown away by one Celtic player’s performance in Paisley on Sunday.

Stephen Robinson

Robinson’s side succumbed to a 2-0 defeat to Brendan Rodgers‘ men and whilst The Buddies boss was disappointed to go out of the Scottish Cup, he reserved special praise for Celtic goalkeeper, Joe Hart.

Robinson said [PLZ Soccer], “Celtic defensively, they don’t really get that kind of credit. They are classed as a very good football team.

“But some of the blocks that they made in the six-yard box and Joe Hart, I thought was superb on the day dealing with corners and deliveries into the box.

“And you know, they deserve credit for that as well. At times the two 18-yard boxes is where the difference is between winning and losing football matches.”

A real touch of class and humility from Robinson there. Hart’s performance at St Mirren was, probably, one of his best of the season.

As I spoke about yesterday, the £15k p/w ‘keeper has been criticised for making some blunders earlier this season but of late, he has really shown his value to the Celtic team.

Against Hibs, he made three brilliant saves and at Aberdeen, he made a further two and ten ball recoveries. [Fotmob]

However, against Rangers at Ibrox earlier this season, Hart showed his true value to the Celtic team. His leadership and experience helped coach an inexperienced centre-back pairing of Gustaf Lagerbielke and Liam Scales through a tough afternoon at Ibrox which led to a 1-0 Celtic win.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, Rodgers needs to make a decision on the £1m man and decide whether or not he still has a future at Celtic.

Based on the last few performances, it does seem that despite having a career spanning 20 years, Joe Hart still has a lot left to offer.

Ex-Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou is linked to an incredible Premier League move

Ange Postecoglou’s Rumored Move to Liverpool

Recent rumors suggest that former Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou is being considered for the managerial position at Liverpool, following Jurgen Klopp’s announcement of stepping down at the end of the season.

Soccer Football – Premier League – Tottenham Hotspur v Fulham – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, Britain – October 23, 2023 Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou reacts REUTERS/David Klein

Postecoglou’s Impact at Spurs

Since his move from Celtic to Spurs in the summer, Postecoglou has left an indelible mark on the North London club. He has not only transformed the team’s playing style but has also created a positive atmosphere. Under his guidance, Spurs have gained recognition for their attractive football and are currently competing for a spot in the next season’s Champions League, thanks to their strong performances in the league.

Speculation and Invitation

The speculation regarding Postecoglou’s potential move to Liverpool gained traction when Andy Maher mentioned on SEN 1116 that “Ange Postecoglou’s agent has formally received an invitation to discuss his potential interest in the Liverpool managerial position.” This revelation has added fuel to the ongoing discussions about Klopp’s successor.

Career Milestones and Achievements

If Postecoglou were to take on the managerial role at Liverpool, it would mark another significant milestone in his career. The Australian coach has experienced a meteoric rise, starting from his days in the A-League and J-League to a successful stint at Celtic, where he secured five trophies in just two years.

Stepping into Klopp’s Shoes

Taking over from a managerial giant like Klopp, who led Liverpool to numerous domestic and international triumphs, including the Premier League and Champions League titles, would undoubtedly be a massive step for Postecoglou. The potential move is further complicated by the fact that Liverpool is Postecoglou’s boyhood club, adding a sentimental layer that might make it challenging for him to turn down such an opportunity.

As the managerial saga unfolds over the coming months, the potential shift of Ange Postecoglou to Liverpool will be a storyline worth keeping a close eye on, given its potential impact on both the coach’s career and the future trajectory of the iconic English club.

The Celtic wonderkid whose cost essentially has truly skyrocketed with the aid of 1,267% after leaving in a massive way.

Celtic supporters may have enjoyed the latest sight of academy brain Rocco Vata emerging as a first-team alternative for Brendan Rodgers this year.

The 18-year-old talent has been in five matchday squads for the senior group in 2024 and made two appearances – scoring in opposition to Buckie Thistle in the SFA Cup.

Hopefully, the teenage whiz will be in a position to earn greater minutes on the pitch over the weeks and months to come as he appears to translate his brilliant academy form, with 12 goals in 15 Lowland League fits this season, over to the first-team.

The Hoops will be hoping that Vata can emerge as a everyday for Rodgers subsequently and that they can gain on the pitch from his development.

Whereas, they were now not able to do that with one of the last homegrown wonderkids to come thru their academy as Ben Doak made the jump to be part of Liverpool in the Premier League.

Ben Doak’s market price at Celtic
The Reds snapped him up from the Hoops in March 2022 for a suggested compensation charge of £600k, as he had yet to sign a professional contract with the Scottish giants – due to being sixteen at the time.

He had already made two first-team appearances beneath Ange Postecoglou in the Scottish Premiership at some point of the 2021/22 marketing campaign however that was not enough to convince him to commit his future to the club.

Doak, who used to be once described as “explosive” by way of brain scout Jacek Kulig, used to be spotted by using Liverpool and they moved to take him away from Scotland in 2022 to be part of their academy system.

Ben Doak’s modern-day market value at Liverpool
It is challenging to argue in opposition to that being a exceptional choice for the teenage dynamo as Jurgen Klopp has provided him first-team opportunities and his market cost has soared over the last two years.

At the time of writing (12/02/2024), Transfermarkt fee Doak at a whopping €10m, which is round £8.5m, and that is a fantastic make bigger of 1267% on the £600k that the English giants paid for him.

The 18-year-old gem, who has been sidelined with a meniscus tear on the grounds that December, made five senior appearances for Liverpool throughout the first half of of the season, with three of those coming in the Europa League.

Interestingly, Doak has played more first-team games (ten) for Liverpool than Vata (six) has for Celtic in all competitions, regardless of the Irish teen being seven months older.

The Scotland formative years international, who was once hailed as a herbal “force” through Klopp, has been shown a clear pathway into the senior squad on Merseyside and his soaring market cost displays his wonderful growth down south.

This suggests that there is no reason for Doak to regret his choice to make the go away from Celtic as his profession seems to be heading in the proper course at this moment in time.

Hopefully, the teenage whiz will return from harm and pick out up where he left off as a real choice for Liverpool’s first-team, with a view to incomes a increased function in the future.

Meanwhile, the Hoops might also watch on with a tinge of sadness, at the same time as they have to still be thrilled to see him doing well, as they lost out on having the homegrown dynamo as phase of their personal group moving forward.