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Celtic star totally ran the show over Dundee, with 156 touches and 89% duels won

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The Hoops dynamo caught the eye with a amazing performance down the flank.

Celtic remain two points behind their closest opponents in the Scottish Premiership title race after an emphatic 7-1 win over Dundee on Wednesday night.

Brendan Rodgers’ facet have been enormously ruthless at Parkhead as they took a 5-0 lead inside 36 minutes and ended the in shape with seven desires from ten photographs on target, as Trevor Carson persisted a night time to forget between the sticks.

Cameron Carter-Vickers, Adam Idah, Matt O’Riley, Daizen Maeda, Greg Taylor, Connor McGregor, and Daniel Kelly all obtained their names on the scoresheet on the night.

Matt O’Riley was one of the stars of the recreation as the Danish magician showcased his significant attacking quality. However, he was now not the solely supremely astounding performer as right-back Alistair Johnston ran the exhibit from his full-back position.

Matt O’Riley’s records against Dundee

The former Fulham prospect was an influential determine in the center of the park for the Hoops as his innovative fine used to be on show at Parkhead.

O’Riley assisted the first with an excellent go from a free-kick to the lower back submit for Carter-Vickers to nod the ball past the goalkeeper from close range.

The Denmark worldwide then scored a header of his own earlier than registering a 2nd assist with a pass to Maeda in the box, who grew to become brilliantly to furnace the ball into the a long way corner.

As you can see in the desk above, O’Riley was a regular presence in possession with the second-most touches of any players on the pitch.

He made a huge impact in the ultimate third and remained composed adequate on the ball to rarely supply it away with his attempted passes for the duration of the game.

The statistics that exhibit Alistair Johnston ran the show

Johnston starred for Celtic alongside O’Riley with a phenomenal show at right-back. The Canada global ran the show in possession with greater touches (156) than any different participant on the park.

With those touches, the right-footed dynamo created more chances (three) than O’Riley and created as many ‘big chances’ (one) as the stunning midfielder.

He completed greater passes (118) than any other participant on the pitch had touches, with a success price of 94%, and this highlights how a lot of an outlet the talented gem furnished the crew down the right flank.

Johnston used to be continually handy for a skip and helped Celtic to control, dominate, and put the sport to bed in the course of the first 1/2 with a clinical display.

The 25-year-old whiz, who was once nearly wonderful defensive with a duel success charge of 89% (8/9), additionally picked up an assist for his attacking efforts.

Just like against Motherwell on Sunday, Johnston was released down the proper flank and supplied a best pass for Idah to locate the lower back of the net, although this time with his head rather than his left foot.

It was a remarkable all-round overall performance from the right-back, who also completed three of his four attempted dribbles, as he was advantageous and extraordinary with his work in and out of possession throughout the game, which is why he ran the show alongside O’Riley.

Celtic icon Henrik Larsson is part of a consortium looking to buy an English club

Celtic legend Henrik Larsson is reportedly section of a consortium to buy an English club. Larsson is joining up with Dutch trio Dennis Bergkamp, Dirk Kurt and Ronald Koeman as they look to create a membership in their image.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – FEBRUARY 26: Henrik Larsson of Celtic salutes the crowd after scoring his second goal during the UEFA Cup match between Celtic and FK Teplice at Celtic Park on February 26, 2004 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

According to Euro Foot on Twitter/X, the quartet choose to get a club in either League One or League Two and Larsson, alongside with Bergkamp and Koeman, will have roles.

Larsson will be the Head Coach of the team, something that he has only carried out in his homeland. Larsson was once section of a consortium to purchase EFL aspect Southend but the deal did not materialise and the Swede ended up helping Koeman in the Nou Camp with Barcelona. After departing, Larsson rejected the danger to be considered for the Sweden International role. It will be interesting to see how this pans out with this move. Robbie Williams is the modern celeb to profess to be interested in following the footballing and commercial success of Wrexham.

In his time at Celtic, Larsson scored 242 desires going from stopping the ten in 1998 before bowing out as a Scottish Champion. They don’t make many like Henrik these days. Despite his stature, he could bounce properly above central defenders and a nip of pace to take him past many a defender. The exceptional that he had in front of aim speaks for itself given the sheer amount of dreams that he scored.

“Ticked every box,” according to Stephen Craigan, the 23-year-old Celtic player’s performance against Motherwell

Celtic’s second-half performance against Motherwell is one that will be talked about all week.

It had the whole thing we have continually wanted to see from this Celtic group all season. Flair, attacking intent, creativeness and, most of all, fight.

Fight that they desire to win this title. Fight when the chips are down and combat when it looks the opposition are dogged in defence.

Because that is what has cost Brendan Rodgers daft points this season. When teams dig in, Celtic appear bereft of thoughts and receive that nowadays may nicely no longer be their day. Not on Sunday.

And that was once down, in part, to one man.

Adam Idah continues to draw the Celtic plaudits

The on-loan Republic of Ireland striker is certainly making a name for himself in his quick spell at the club.

Two high-pressure penalties towards Hibs endeared him right away to the Celtic fans and his double simply elevated his standing in addition amongst the Hoops support.

It additionally appeared to please BBC pundit Stephen Craigan. The Northern Irishman used to be waxing lyrical about Idah when he said that the 22-year-old striker was genuinely flawless against The Steelmen.

Craigan said [Scottish Football Podcast], “A lot of human beings viewed it as underwhelming when Adam Idah came in. He was with Norwich in the Championship he wasn’t enjoying regularly.

“People were wondering why used to be Brendan trying to carry him in and be a first-choice striker or push as a first-choice striker if he can’t get a recreation for a club who are making an attempt to go into the playoffs in the championship?

“So he would would have had the bit his teeth. We will have been thoroughly conscious of that. He will have wanted to show human beings what he’s all about. So he’s finished it.

“He’s in reality grabbed the imagination and these days show the influence he can have in a Celtic team, specifically away from home, where the pitches are smaller and the house is more compact.

“You want a centre-forward who can get a keep of the ball, can lower back into people, can create space for others to win headers when you throw the ball into the box.


“He simply ticked every field this afternoon.”

There is no doubt Idah is a very true penalty box striker. His overall performance on Sunday greater than confirmed that.

The followers will be hoping that his structure continues the following day night in opposition to Dundee because after what he did at Fir Park, Idah must be a shoo-in to make the starting lineup.

“Ultimately,” Stephen Craigan explains why Celtic leads Rangers by a significant margin in the race for the championship

All the talk of the race to the Scottish Premiership so far is how all the momentum is with Rangers and how Celtic are struggling.

Yesterday’s 3-1 struggling with win over Motherwell proves that there is still existence in this Celtic team but and if the Ibrox club virtually choose this title they had better be prepared to fight for it.

Admittedly, Rangers’ 5-0 over Hearts sent out a message that Celtic need to be on their mettle and a second-half overall performance from Rodgers‘ crew was a ideal rebuttal to that.

However, there is an gain in this race that one group has and it’s no longer Rangers. That’s in accordance to BBC pundit, Stephen Craigan.

Stephen Craigan questions Rangers’ bottle to assignment Celtic

Now that we are down to the brass tacks of the title race, it will come down to who will keep their nerve the most now.

The BBC pundit has raised one vital point about a large benefit that Celtic have over Rangers and it will resonate with both units of supporters.

Craigan said [Scottish Football Podcast], “When you look at the acid take a look at for Rangers, a lot of gamers in their squad have never received a significant league recreation against Celtic.

“They received the Scottish semi-final and they won final season with Michael Beale but they haven’t gained a meaningful one.

“One that definitely determines what route the title is going to go. Celtic on the other hand, they have the mentality.

“They’ve won each Old F*rm games. So they have that psychological edge.

“So Rangers can win their video games and close the hole however sooner or later it’s going to boil down to whether can they go over the line and win a significant Old F*rm game.”

Brendan Rodgers has the beating of Rangers

Whilst I get, and agree, with the factor Craigan has made what others are forgetting is that Rodgers also has a massive facet when it comes to beating Rangers.

The Celtic supervisor has faced the Ibrox club 15 times in his career and has won 12, drawn two and lost only one. [Transfermarkt]

Rodgers knows what it takes to beat the Ibrox membership and is now not afraid to take risks to do so. We all have in mind the recreation that Rodgers got Celtic allocations reduce from Ibrox right?

His selection to convey on Odsonne Edouard when we had been down to ten men in the 3-2 win in Govan in 2018 sparked a chain of occasions that would eventually see the Celtic fans’ allocation considerably reduced.

Steven Naismith believes that with the right foundation in place, Hearts can contend with Celtic and Rangers in the future

The Jambos have been on a 12 recreation unbeaten run earlier than they have been thumped through the Light Blues this weekend

Steven Naismith is adamant Hearts can trap Celtic and Rangers in the coming years.

The Jambos head coach believes he and the membership are placing the building blocks in location to be able to push both sides of the Glasgow divide for honours in future. Despite this weekend’s 5-0 thumping at the fingers of Gers at Ibrox, Naismith is assured in the club that they can enhance further as they sit 1/3 in the Premiership desk by using a considerable 11 point margin.

They have been unbeaten in 12 building to yesterday’s conflict at the Light Blues and Naisy hopes to use that form as a springboard to larger and better things where his aspect are concerned.

He informed the Sunday Mail: “I’ve never surely notion of what would possibly have been had we began this season like this. My experience told me it would take time. And via changing matters like we did, people make mistakes which can be costly. But I hope next season, the one after that and the one after that, we’re no longer a blank canvas any more. We’ll be in a better vicinity so progression ought to be quicker.

“Can we venture the Old Firm in the future? People talk about the George Burley season right here 20 years in the past however I want I had his budget! That shows how tough it is. The Old Firm will go thru waves. Celtic under Ange Postecoglou were untouchable. But both golf equipment have long gone thru transitions which is likely the place they are now.

“If you seem at clubs around the world who have challenged the huge boys, it’s about how you get there. You have to not get in advance of yourself. I clearly suppose we’re taking large steps – and the right ones.”

Picture: Johnston and CCV in a hilarious photo following a late Celtic drama

Celtic left it very late towards Motherwell for the 2d time this season to take hold of all three indispensable points in a dramatic day in the SPFL.

It was once January signing Adam Idah that dragged Celtic lower back into the game and would then bag the winner in the 94th minute earlier than Luis Palma made sure of all three points with a third simply before the final whistle.

It used to be a day where frustration turned into jubilation in a rely of seconds. While the followers danced and celebrated in the stands and the gamers in the field ran to the support, two Celtic players were further lower back having their personal celebration.

The hilarious photo that has emerged in the wake of the victory sums up the crew spirit.

Alistair Johnston and the returning CCV had been captured rolling around the floor in the aftermath of Idah’s goal.

 

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Celtic have eleven video games left in the SPFL and if they win each and every game, they would be champions. Easier stated than done, specifically because our performances haven’t been the best. However, Sunday used to be a step in the proper direction.

David Moyes to Celtic was discussed live on talkSPORT following the West Ham United contract update

Paul Hawksbee reacted to the “interesting” remarks made via West Ham boss David Moyes as a feasible swap to Celtic was once mooted.

Moyes confirmed at his press conference on Friday (23 February) that he has been supplied a new contract but will wait till the summer season before making a decision.

A caller live on talkSPORT [23 February, 3:04pm] suggested that Moyes is destined to change Brendan Rodgers as Celtic supervisor at the give up of the season.

In response, the host said: “There used to be a bit of aspect from Moyes. The followers might not choose him to stay, but he may additionally not choose to stay. It’s interesting.”

Brendan Rodgers future unsure at Celtic

Glasgow-born Moyes would no doubt love to manipulate at Parkhead one day, and it may additionally well be that Rodgers departs after just one season back.

From the backyard looking in, it seems that all is no longer well at Celtic due to things each on and off the field.

Should that job turn out to be available, Moyes would seem at it as a exceptional way straight lower back into administration must he leave London Stadium.

The future of Brendan Rodgers as Celtic manager is uncertain

The truth he is conserving off for any other few months earlier than making a decision on his future makes this one sound plausible.

What that does, however, is carry prolonged uncertainty to West Ham. The club need to find a replacement now if Moyes intends to leave.

The greater probable state of affairs is that Moyes is conserving out for a return to form before an announcement is made, as an alternative than proper now after eight winless games. Either way, this is potentially one to hold an eye on.

West Brom’s manager has a theory on why Mikey Johnston is doing so well at Hawthorns

Ireland global Mikey Johnston has been rejuvenated by way of his recent mortgage go to West Bromwich Albion, with the 24-year-old endearing himself instantly to the club’s fanbase.

Johnston had struggled to get any variety of significant sport time in the first 1/2 of the season with Celtic. In fact, the Irish winger only managed four starts offevolved in all competitions earlier than Christmas, leaving him eager to take some time away from Celtic Park to get ordinary minutes.

The early signs are that Johnston’s pass was once for the best. He has scored two desires in his first 5 appearances for the Baggies, together with the second in their 3-0 win over Plymouth Argyle on Tuesday night.

Speaking in the aftermath of that game, West Brom supervisor Carlos Corderan explained why he believed Johnston had taken so quickly to the Championship after his struggles in Glasgow.

Ireland MNT: West Brom manager extremely joyful to see Mikey Johnston thriving

Corderan defined that the exchange in tempo of the Championship had in all likelihood helped Johnston to straight away fit in and excel, whilst he also counseled that the stress of European opposition may additionally have had an influence on the Irishman’s performances early in the season:

It’s not the equal for Mikey to play at Celtic and West Bromwich Albion. When you discover Celtic, when they are taking part in at home in a league game, they are very dominant and attack. When you put Celtic in a European competition, there is any other scenario.

What is essential is that Johnston had a mortgage in Portugal previously. He was once in a team which was special to Celtic, so it is new to him to be in a one-of-a-kind environment to Celtic, it’s now not the first time he is had a specific style. That allows us to have faith more in his adaptation.

It is incredible to see Johnston now not solely enjoying nicely but doing so for a team mixing it up at the business cease of the Championship table.

West Brom presently take a seat in the play-off places, as they seek to return to the Premier League after a three-year absence.

Though Johnston has only started two of the Baggies’ 5 games on account that his arrival, he has sincerely made an have an impact on in the minutes he has received. Given the praise he has acquired from instruct Corderan, greater regular starts have to be on the playing cards in the run-in.

19 June 2023; Mikey Johnston of Republic of Ireland celebrates after scoring his side’s first goal during the UEFA EURO 2024 Championship qualifying group B match between Republic of Ireland and Gibraltar at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Johnston’s accelerated form and minutes are excellent information for the incumbent Ireland supervisor – whoever they may additionally be. Though the Glasgow-born attacker used to be one of the extra awesome performers of 2023 in an Ireland jersey, he did so while struggling to function normally at club level.

Watch: Mikey Johnston, a Celtic loan star who harnesses his inner Messi, blows West Brom brains

Johnston scored his second aim in a week and is taking matters with the aid of storm at West Brom.

Mikey Johnston blew minds at West Brom with his 2nd purpose for the club – even if the teamsheet is not completely up to velocity with his title yet…

The winger is making his presence felt in the West Midlands and scored within 30 seconds of his first start for the club towards Cardiff City remaining week. Last night time the Baggies took on Plymouth Argyle and after former Motherwell cult hero Cedric Kipre gave them a second-half lead, the Celtic loanee grabbed the headlines again.

Johnston led a counter-attack all by himself, before changing passes with Alex Mowatt and charging in from the left. He left his marker on the flooring with a shimmy and curled a splendor past his ex-Celtic teammate Conor Hazard – something one punter on X mentioned used to be ‘Messi-esque.’ He was cited as ‘Mickey Johnston’ on the West Brom teamsheet – but you experience like they won’t be getting his identify wrong for long if he keeps this up…

After watching the goal, West Brom legend Tony Brown instructed BBC Radio WM: “What a corker. What a awesome strike.

“He’s performed the whole lot right, he’s obtained it on the left-hand side, he’s come into the box, he’s got it on his proper foot and he’s launched an unstoppable strike straight in the top corner. No hazard for the Plymouth goalkeeper. Brilliant play from Johnston, truely brilliant. Unbelievable.”

Sutton is correct about Rodgers, but he ignores the board’s leading role in the Celtic disaster

Chris Sutton’s depressing precis of Celtic’s season is accurate enough in that few Celtic supporters will locate fault in what he says however will have plenty of objections about what the former striker didn’t say as he tried to select the bones over a dreadfully inconsistent domestic marketing campaign the place if some thing the consequences have on the total been higher than the performances merit

Celtic captain Callum McGregor and his team mates look dejected at full-time. Final score Celtic 1 Kilmarnock 1. 17 February 2024. Photo Stuart Wallace/Shutterstock

When Kilmarnock determined to press Celtic high up the park at the weekend with that pleasant header from Kyogo keeping apart the sides, this must have applicable Celtic, who have been complaining about taking part in in opposition to groups with a low block and a parked bus. Yet they had been determined out and discovered out badly when the possibility to punish a crew like Kilmarnock for taking such dangers introduced itself.

While there’s nothing many Celtic supporters will disagree with in what Sutton had to say the day past lunchtime on Sky Sports, as Celtic grip on the title weakened as theRangers moved two points clear with a predictable win against St Johnstone in Perth, it’s what Sutton didn’t say that they’ll have a hassle with.

The Celtic Board misplaced Ange Postecoglou last June. Aaron Mooy determined to retire due to a lower back injury, Carl Starlet used to be allowed to leave, Jota offered to Saudi Arabia of £25m, we had already lost Josip Juranovic and Giorgos Giakoumakis in the January 2023 window and there has been no alternative anywhere near the level of the personnel leaving the building.

Having had incredible success with the good buy buys Reo Hatate and Matt O’Riley, the Celtic powerbrokers reckoned that this was once the way to go and devised a formula and set Peter Lawwell and Gordon Strachan’s (other) son (the one who preceding managed a golf shop) to work to discover from round the world players in their early 20s, paying no extra than £3m in costs and with a wages cap in their remit. And we bought a pile of dross.

David Watson of Kilmarnock scores with a header to tie the score 1-1 during time added on after 90 minutes. The goal stood following a VAR check for a foul. Celtic v Kilmarnock, Cinch Scottish Premiership, Football, Celtic Park, Glasgow, UK – 17 Feb 2024. Photo Stuart Wallace/Shutterstock

The of the two central defenders signed we had one sitting behind Peter Lawwell and Michael Nicholson at the weekend (see picture above) and the different sitting on the bench, and alternatively we had Liam Scales and Stephen Welsh at the centre of our defence.

Reo Hatate and Cameron Carter-Vickers have been massive losses this campaign thorough damage whilst Liel Abada is now not section of the way forward, and it’s practical for these in charge at Celtic to pin that one on the guide the resistance banner from the North Curve in early October.

Celtic v Kilmarnock – Celtic chairman Peter Lawwell and CEO Michael Nicholson during the cinch Premiership match at Celtic Park on Saturday February 17, 2024. Photo Andrew Milligan

Brendan Rodgers changed Ange Postecoglou after Celtic officials and Callum McGregor met him in Majorca however he got here returned to a club in transition and without any manage over the transfer business, admitting he’d coach what he’s given, and no doubt he’s heard of how clever Celtic now had been in the transfer market.

The fashion of soccer is nothing like it was beneath Postecoglou, the squad is nowhere close to as right and why Sutton factors the finger of blame at Brendan Rodgers, it’s no longer his who controlled the switch commercial enterprise or is sitting with greater than £7m in the bank. In the January window we bought a striker struggling for a recreation at Norwich and a participant that leads to the conclusion we’ve been shafted by way of Rapid Vienna yet again. Sometimes it helps to have longer recollections in football. Kuhn leaves mny pining for Mickey Johnson!

Kyogo’s now not scoring as many desires this season, yet closing season his assists got here normally from Jota and Hatate, this time around our (millions of) wingers are growing nothing, every and each one is dreadful. After the recreation at the weekend I said Rodgers have to now go 4-4-2 and just no longer start a single winger. Unless something modifications quickly then this league is gone.

Mark Lawwell used to be curiously noticed at the sport at the weekend and acquired an earful. He played a part in recruiting Ange Postecoglou – credit where it is due – but is he the first-class qualified person to build a squad succesful of beating St Johnstone, Motherwell and Kilmarnock at Celtic Park? That’s a fairly low bar but right there we’ve spilled six points.

If arguing the case for the defence then be equipped for the knock-out blow: Mark Lawwell is assisted through the other Strachan boy who would be extra suited to shifts in the Celtic superstore. Put it this way if his dad wasn’t WGS he’d be nowhere close to the job that he’s currently in and Celtic go on about exceptional practice. It’s superb that these two are depended on but the supervisor we are supposedly paying £3m per 12 months is not.

“The end result yesterday, I don’t suppose it came as a wonderful shock. Celtic have been bang common this season. The wins have papered over the cracks – performances haven’t been there – they’re not a accurate crew this season.

“Everybody talks about the board, signings and this being a long time in the making this precise moment. Brendan Rodgers has to take responsibility. I can’t think of one participant at Celtic who he has expanded – that’s on the manager,” Chris Sutton stated on Sky Sports.

“You seem at the points they’ve dropped domestically in isolation, they’ve been poor. They’ve been outplayed, I cant keep in mind the final time a Celtic team were outplayed in halves of soccer via so many teams. That’s on Brendan. Why is it? We’ve touched on the extensive players before. They have been taking part in speedy and livid below Ange Postecoglou – the manufacturer of football is slow, predictable.

Celtic v Kilmarnock – cinch Premiership – Celtic Park The Celtic board after the cinch Premiership match at Celtic Park, Saturday February 17, 2024. Photo Andrew Milligan

“There isn’t a concern aspect when groups go up against Celtic – groups fancy getting a result. The end result as awful as it used to be wasn’t a fantastic surprise.”

Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers, Hyunjun Yang and Paulo Bernardo at full-time. Final score Celtic 1 Kilmarnock 1. 17 February 2024. Photo Stuart Wallace/Shutterstock

Sutton added: This is on Brendan. Celtic need to be inserting groups away domestically. Since Brendan’s come again all we’ve heard is the need for speed, passing, play. Celtic are predictable.

“You appear at Celtic’s backline – I fancy enjoying against them at my age!”

It has to do with mentality: has Rodgers breached a boundary that calls for action?

One comment from Brendan Rodgers honestly ought to be causing panic in the Celtic boardroom this morning.

Most of the issues of this season surfaced in the 1-1 draw with Kilmarnock, the fourth time this season that Celtic have failed to win at domestic in the SPFL, the third time in 4 video games that they’ve failed to beat Kilmarnock.

Four wingers have been used at some point of the fit with barely a single cut-back for strikers to work on, when Greg Taylor went off injured Rodgers turned to Alexandro Bernabei who was restricted to four alternative appearances in the first 1/2 of the season, more often than not failing to make the matchday squad.

Whatever issues are going on at the membership the manager is predicted to get the excellent out of the players, the majority of whom have been worried in triumphing a domestic treble closing season.

A manager has to get the nice out of the 19 players he selects after working with them for a week in training.

With one comment the previous day suggested by The Scotsman it appears that Rodgers has given up on the gamers he selected:

It is not about capability or approach now, it is about mentality. It is about now not letting that man go past you and having that power and composure to play. We saw it the second half, even although we have been now not underneath extremely good strain we kept making it challenging for ourselves.

Questioning the mentality of gamers is a very serious issue, it isn’t something that can be worked on in training.

Throughout soccer the answer in these situations is to eliminate the manager, that is easier to do than clear out a dressing room of players on long time period contracts.

If Michael Nicholson and Peter Lawwell require any proposal into taking tough choices they can appear throughout the metropolis to see what happened when Michael Beale used to be removed before the first spherical of SPFL fixtures had been completed.

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.Callum McGregor Celtic11th 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.West Brom

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.

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.

 

 

 

 

 



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