Ex-Rangers player wants to join Liverpool as Celtics’ exit is official

Former Rangers and Scotland striker Kenny Miller believes his old club have to make a go for former Dundee loan superstar Owen Beck.

The Liverpool teenager made 22 appearances in all competitions after moving to Dens Park on what was once expected to be a season-long loan pass in August.  However, the defender was recalled by using the English Premier League giants ultimate week.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp mirrored on Beck’s loan spell with Dundee, saying: “It used to be good.  So, we continually saw and had been quite effective about Owen however then he had two without a doubt difficult mortgage spells, which was once a surprise that it didn’t work out due to the fact of what we thinking about Owen, however that’s how it is, especially with young boys when you ship them away from domestic and stuff like this.”

Although Beck’s recall was once instigated by way of accidents to Andrew Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas, there has been some talk the Wales Under-21 left-back could be allowed to go away from Anfield once again – and Miller has insisted Rangers would be making a ‘terrific signing’ if they made a move.

He told The Daily Record: “Don’t get me wrong, if the chance is there to sign Owen Beck from Liverpool – who has without a doubt impressed me on loan at Dundee – I’d do it.  He’d be a wonderful signing if he’s available. And the cause I’d do it now is to get in earlier than anybody else moves first.”

Beck used to be not the only Liverpool superstar to be recalled to Anfield after on-loan Celtic defender Nat Phillips returned to Merseyside ultimate week.

The 26-year-old centre-back has made eight appearances in all competitions for Brendan Rodgers’ aspect however will now continue to be at Anfield until the quit of the month when a company decision will be made on his future.  Taking to his social media accounts following his departure, Phillips paid tribute to Celtic’s supporters and wished them well for the the rest of the season.

On Instagram, Phillips posted: “It was once a pleasure and a privilege to represent @celticfc and their supporters. I desire each person at the membership all the fine for the rest of the season and the future”

Vaclav Hladky discusses the future of the Ipswich deal after links to Celtic

Vaclav Hladky has spoken out about his future after being linked with a a transfer to Celtic.

The former St Mirren goalkeeper has starred for Ipswich Town as they compete for advertising to the English Premier League, currently sitting 2nd in the Championship behind Leicester. The Czech shotstopper has performed all 26 of their league games and kept 9 smooth sheets.

It’s Hladky’s 1/3 season at the Tractor Boys after shifting from Salford and he had only made 13 league apperances across the two campaigns before setting up himself as first choice this season. In December reviews from the 33-year-old’s place of origin claimed the Hoops have been searching at him.

He has now been quizzed on his future, telling the East Anglian Daily Times: “If you are in a right role and enjoying nicely in the Championship and obviously the team is doing nicely as well, that’s some thing which makes different clubs interested.

“I think all people in this squad can go and play somewhere else. It’s nice, it’s accurate to hear it and listen, I’m just going to elevate on and I prefer to push more.

“I accept as true with there is a lot extra to deliver and it’s great to be in that position. My focal point is simply on Stoke – that’s all that I can say now.

“Obviously it’s exceptional to be in this function and I desire to just deliver the entirety that I’m capable of every game.

“The next one is Stoke and I don’t favor to assume too a whole lot ahead. I’m constantly focused on the next one, that’s for certain – and that’s what we do each and every week.”

Hladky impressed for St Mirren in the 2020/21 season and had plenty of selections for his subsequent move, opting for Salford in League Two. He later printed he snubbed hobby from Rangers as he wanted to have a go at enjoying in England.

Brendan Rodgers outlines his schedule for signing one or two new players

Brendan Rodgers is anticipating to get one or two signings executed in the ‘early period of the month’.

Five days into the January transfer window there are no proper signs of business being completed.

Under Ange Postecoglou Celtic had the bulk of their signings achieved ahead of the switch window opening, ultimate season Alistair Johnstone made his debut at Ibrox on January two having already been education with his new team-mates.

After an underwhelming summer time window in which solely Luis Palma of seven signings has made an influence on the first crew Celtic supporters are searching for high-quality arrivals this month, first crew starters to arrive and make an instant impact.

Outlining his personal expectations, Rodgers told The Sun:

The club will do without a doubt the whole thing it can to guide what we need and what the group needs. There is a lot of work going on in the background, and I’m distinctly certain that in this early duration of the month we can have some joy and get one or two in.

The early duration of the month is open to interpretation but with the subsequent fit being played on January 21 supporters will be expecting to see additions to the side that kicks off the defence of the Scottish Cup at home to Buckie Thistle.

“Another”: Stephen Welsh delivers a Matt O’Riley transfer tease that will delight Celtics supporters

Matt O’Riley raised his Celtic bat in style on Tuesday when he hit a hundred appearances by way of scoring all through the 3-0 win over St Mirren.

The Celtic fans have watched the 23-year-old transform into one of the high-quality playmakers the club has viewed in current instances and the exceptional in the country.

Matt O’Riley showcased serious high-quality under Ange Postecoglou ultimate season and was once a key purpose at the back of the Treble-winning side.

But there is no doubt that he has taken his game up a degree this time around and it has resulted in the everyday transfer activity in the Celtic star.

There is little fear about losing Matt O’Riley in January, however all and sundry knows what is coming when the summer season switch window re-opens.

That’s why it would be the last want of the Celtic fanbase to watch the Denmark celebrity play out another 100 games at Parkhead.

Well, Stephen Welsh is acting as an agent for the Celtic followers by means of posting an interesting message on the midfielder’s Instagram.

Matt O’Riley 100 appearances for Celtic

Matt O’Riley posted how he used to be ‘proud’ to have reached the milestone of 100, but in the feedback section, Stephen Welsh told him ‘Another tonne would do’ delivered with a winking face, with a tongue emoji.

Paulo Bernardo advised him that it’s a ‘pleasure enjoying with you’, whilst Gustaf Lagerbielke added ‘100 video games of excellence’.

 

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Keeping Matt O’Riley at Celtic

The aim for Brendan Rodgers at Celtic is to preserve the dominance on the home stage, however most importantly, progress in Europe.

For that to happen, tested quality needs to be added with the aid of the transfer market.

But most importantly, the club needs to maintain the pleasant players and O’Riley is actually one of them.

If Celtic see off the summer time with O’Riley still at the club, then it would be a big announcement for Rodgers to try and take the group ahead in the Champions League subsequent season.

Your thoughts on Sancho for Celtic and a return for Van Veen

Scottish Premiership: Celtic, Rangers, Motherwell, Aberdeen fans amongst supporters to determine January prospects

The Scottish Premiership has entered its winter break, however whilst the gamers experience some hard-earned rest, recruitment chiefs round the country will be working overtime.

The January window is open, and Scottish aspects will be looking to fortify their squads for the relaxation of the campaign.

This is a sample of the views from those who replied to our call for opinions on their club’s transfer desire list

Wanted in Aberdeen: a replacement for Ylber Ramadani

Some Pittodrie punters sense the tough-tackling Albanian, who left for Lecce in the summer, is still being missed

David: We ought to reinforce our midfield. We’ve obtained to spend excellent money on a playmaker and a ball winner to play alongside Dante Polvara and Jamie McGrath.

James: I would love to see a tricky winger come into the team, maybe Danny Armstrong from Kilmarnock or scout in some of the Scandinavian leagues.

Fraser: We’re crying out for an energetic ball winner in midfield. Ramadani has not been replaced. I’m now not certain we ought to be spending money on any one though, a loan with an option to purchase would be a prudent move.

Neil: First precedence has to be holding Bojan Miovski, his desires will be critical in getting us up the table. A replacement for Ramadani to help Graeme Shinnie in midfield is also a must.

Could Celtic bag Jadon Sancho?

Celtic supporters are eyeing first-team-ready reinforcements as their team bids to win any other title

Lee: Jadon Sancho on mortgage from Manchester United is a shout.

Michael: Scott McKenna on a free.

Gordy: The three largest areas we want to enhance are goalkeeper, left again and a physical centre forward to aid and play alongside Kyogo Furuhashi. The midfield additionally needs a boost, no offence to the guys currently in these positions however physically we need to improve.

Shaun: I have no self belief in the board or Brendan Rodgers signing right experienced players after listening to they are signing anybody from the South Korea league, that is every other player off to the Asia Cup if we do signal him.

Striker required at Dens Park?

Should Dundee boss Tony Docherty prioritise including to his forward line this month?

Alan: There are rumours Simon Murray is unsettled at Ross County and he would be a super signing. Christian Doidge of Hibernian would additionally be a appropriate addition. We truely need a striker who can really strike.

Carl: The precedence is without a doubt a ready striker followed by a strong midfield enforcer. This is blatantly obvious. This transfer window is crucial but we all be aware of a host of others with more cash are after comparable targets. Good good fortune Tony Docherty.

Jay: We need top and strength in midfield, sorry Lyall Cameron fans. Charlie Adam was the last guy who had what we need, Malachi Boateng is no longer the new Glen Kamara. We need a change of tactics/formation, maybe one up the front away.

Hearts fans desire help for Shankland

Lawrence Shankland is in white-hot form, but even if the captain is no longer sold this window, Hearts fans favor to see others add to desires tally

Richard: We need to address having correctly simply one intention threat (Lawrence Shankland). We want a midfielder who will go previous the striker to alternate the dynamic from middle to the front. We have two of these at the second but they don’t appear fantastic sufficient at it.

Alan: A Josh Ginnelly replacement. Yutaro Oda and Kenneth Vargas have the pace however as but have not delivered the conversion costs we want from a secondary striker. They would possibly nonetheless come exact but I’d love to see us deliver in a proven brain in that role – let’s ask Bojan Miovski if he’s eager to have European football again next year!

David: The three areas for strengthening are any other perfect striker to back up Shankland, or replace him if he leaves, a box-to-box scoring midfielder in the mould of Colin Cameron and a right again – how about going returned for Callum Paterson?

Hibs want gamers to swimsuit Sir Bernard Law blueprint

Hibs have blown warm and cold seeing that Nick Montgomery’s appointment and some fans experience the squad does now not go well with his style of play

Alex: It’s clear to see the spine of the group needs addressed, we want a dominant centre half with a midfield leader and a centre forward.

Martin: I’m desperate for two centre-backs, an attacking midfielder and a striker.

John: If we can discover a John Blackley for defence, a Pat McGinlay and any other Scott Allan for midfield then happy days. To play the type of soccer Nick Sir Bernard Law wishes we want gamers who can ignore the ball quickly and accurately.

Luca: We need a striker, a centre midfielder, and, to no surprise, a centre back. Bernard Law Montgomery not be blamed for the derby defeat. The modern squad does now not have his stamp on it yet.

Anderson in Kilmarnock fans’ crosshairs

A couple of the Rugby Park faithful like the seem of effervescent Livingston striker Bruce Anderson

Amy: I’d be searching at signing Bruce Anderson from Livingston. He’d work well with Kyle Vassell and provide top competition.

Callum: Anderson on a pre-contract agreement, but appear to signal him for a small charge in January. This would be a high-quality deal to signal a decent striker, experienced in the league, at a reduce price. It would enable Vassell and Marley Watkins who are both struggling with niggles to be rested, share the load for goalscoring and furnish alternatives to exchange tactics.

Van Veen or bust for Motherwell?

Is a glorious return to Lanarkshire on the cards for prolific former Motherwell hero Kevin van Veen?

Ronnie: It’s in reality simple, Kevin van Veen to keep Stuart Kettlewell’s job. Get the deal job.

Stuart: A defender and a striker, no names however no real initiatives as we have a few already.

What about Rangers’ quest for goals?

Shanklan, and Van Veen are cited by Rangers supporters eager for attacking additions

Elaine: I’d nonetheless like to see us signal some other striker. Shankland would do a gorgeous job at Ibrox and we pay Hearts £3m. I’d also like to see us purchase a left again as I don’t think Rıdvan Yılmaz is the successor to Borna Barisic.

Alexander: I have been announcing due to the fact his Ayr United days that Rangers have to sign Shankland, and now he is a greater mature, skilled player, his all-round sport is far better than ever.

Stephen: If Hearts are willing to pay attention to offers, simply Shankland has to be really worth a punt. He would probably love to come to Ibrox albeit he cannot come out and say so. I’m not positive of the Silva signing as I experience the Scottish game may also be too physical for him. Shankland has everything required to be a success at Rangers.

Gus: I’m no longer sure Fabio Silva is the answer, Van Veen is a a whole lot cheaper option and a assured Premiership goalscorer. Not sure why we preserve signing strikers with no proof of goals.

Ross County on a wing and a prayer?

Should Derek Adams have pacey widemen at the pinnacle of his January buying list?

Christofer: We want wingers. Most positions in the squad are exceptional with some exact depth and choices then again it is particularly apparent the lack of huge gamers is proscribing the fashion of soccer we can play.

St Johnstone fans want some killer instinct

Speed and panache are also the orders of the day in Perth

Anonymous: The right-back role is not properly covered. A innovative midfielder and quickly large participant are required.

Gordon: We need some pace in the team and an attacking midfielder.

Stuart: We desperately need a striker or two who can score extra than three goals a season! We are turning into recognized as St Johnstone-nil. General play in all other areas is looking gorgeous however as with the remaining few seasons the lack of ability to score is keeping us again near the league’s trapdoor. Long late a revamp of the front line.

Rangers furiously release a second statement on the Celtic penalty incident and criticize the VAR audio request timeline

The Ibrox club proceed to voice concerns over an incident in the Old Firm derby

Rangers have hit out the Scottish Football Association for no longer but disclosing the VAR audio from Saturday’s Old Firm defeat by Celtic, claiming that the governing body will now not meet until Wednesday to talk about the request.

The Ibrox club are unhappy about the situations surrounding a penalty claim in the first half of Rangers’ 2-1 defeat by way of Celtic at Parkhead. They choose to hear the discussions between VAR operator Willie Collum and match reputable Nick Walsh that led to the decision no longer to penalise Celtic defender Alistair Johnston for a handball offence whilst underneath stress from Rangers ahead Abdallah Sima. Broadcaster Sky Sports printed on air that there was once an offside towards Sima that is deemed to have outmoded any foul play from Johnston, with a still picture numerous minutes after the incident.

However, play restarted with what regarded to be a goal kick from Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart alternatively than a free kick for offside and Rangers manager Philippe Clement published he was unaware of the reasoning at the back of the officials’ actions. It has led to Rangers issuing every other announcement on Sunday, less than 24 hours after their first call for VAR audio to be released, criticising the “unacceptable” timescale for convening and saying their worries are developing over “the lack of transparency”.

A Rangers spokesperson said: “Despite repeated Rangers FC requests, the Scottish FA have so a long way failed to disclose the VAR audio to allow the club to understand the manner round the non-award of a penalty in the first 1/2 of yesterday’s Old Firm match. Rangers officials stand prepared to meet in-person or simply with the Scottish FA at any time to hear and discuss the audio. However, the Scottish FA are refusing to both share the VAR audio and meet until at least Wednesday, 5 days after the Old Firm in shape and after the subsequent spherical of Scottish Premiership fixtures. This is without a doubt unacceptable and heightens Rangers’ issues over the lack of transparency, for which the need is urgent.

“Rangers have realized no penalty was awarded as the VAR official, Willie Collum, concluded a handball offence had now not occurred in the first half. While the membership and most observers are astonished through this ‘professional’ view, we remain confused and concerned about the Scottish FA’s motivations for sharing an offside photo with broadcasters at some point of the 2nd half, when this was once now not the authentic cause why the penalty was not awarded.

“England’s Premier League and different main European Leagues function on a ‘nothing to hide’ basis, the place open communication and full transparency are reachable to golf equipment and the public on contentious VAR calls in a well timed manner. On a weekend where not solely Rangers but also fellow Scottish FA member clubs have foremost questions over doubtlessly match-changing incidents, our governing body would do nicely to heed that identical mantra.”

‘He got nowhere near him’: Rangers were led by the Celtic star, according to James McFadden

Callum McGregor is Celtic captain for a reason and he proved it during the 2-1 Glasgow derby win over Rangers.

From the get-go, Callum McGregor made it clear that he used to be the one who was going to run the show in the center of the park and dictate the tempo of the match.

It was a performance of high, high high-quality and similarly proof that he is one of Celtic’s best-ever midfielders due to the fact he offers when it things most.

James McFadden in reality loved his performance and how he bossed around Rangers playmaker, Todd Cantwell, as he told Sky Sports Football (30/12/23 at 2:50 pm).

Whether the Celtic captain used to be trying to win the ball lower back or development it forward, the entirety was once performed with aggression, high intent and just pure quality.

The Rangers midfield, and the flattering-to-deceive Todd Cantwell, simply couldn’t cope with him as he called the shots.

All of that allowed the likes of goalscorer Paulo Bernardo, Matt O’Riley, the huge gamers and the inverted fullbacks to do their job going forward.

That was touched upon by James McFadden and how the dirty facet of Callum McGregor’s recreation isn’t appreciated.

“I assume it was necessary (on McGregor doing the soiled aspect of the game),” said McFadden. “We recognize how correct of a footballer he is. We recognize he will take the ball in any circumstance. His contact is always immaculate and his decision-making is brilliant.

“But his energy. His aggression to go and win the ball back. His anticipation. These are things, when you get that right and you are controlling the game, then you are having a standout performance.

“I simply think the way Callum McGregor speaks, he takes that leadership role and he relishes it. He surely enjoys being the captain. He constantly leads by using example. None more so than towards Rangers. You should see very early how aggressive he was once to attempt and win the ball back.

“Cantwell was nameless in the game. His job was in all likelihood to give up Callum McGregor. He bought nowhere near him. When Cantwell obtained on the ball, then Callum McGregor stopped him playing. He is stopping a primary danger in the Rangers team, even as additionally having a big affect on his crew as well. I thought he was honestly outstanding.”

Callum McGregor lays down a marker

You ought to argue the closing time McGregor put in an equally fantastic performance, the team had been selecting up three factors at Ibrox.

Whilst the magnificent Kyogo Furuhashi might show to be the distinction maker this season due to the fact of his goals.

Don’t sleep on someone like McGregor due to the fact his have an impact on on this team is simply priceless.

And if Brendan Rodgers is to guide the Bhoys to but every other title, then McGregor wishes to remain match because no-one else in the crew can possibly do the job he does.

‘Hope You Enjoyed It’ – Bernardo Sends Celtic Support An Insightful Message

Celtic intention hero Bernardo took to social media on Saturday night to have a good time his section in Celtic’s win against The Rangers.

The Portuguese big name blasted Celtic into the lead after the ball got here his way. The approach and capacity to seize the ball on the volley and maintain it down was once no stroke of luck.

The Portuguese midfielder has had a quiet begin to his Celtic profession however has burst into lifestyles in the previous two games scoring against Dundee and now the Ibrox side.

Writing on Instagram, the Celtic loan bhoy addressed the fans.

 

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A post shared by Paulo Bernardo (@paulogbernardo)

A wonderful purpose from Kyogo just after the spoil made it a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year for the bhoys as they noticed out the yr with a huge win.

Now, Bernardo and the relaxation of the Celtic players have to refocus. With one extra recreation left earlier than the winter ruin against St Mirren, the Hoops should now not get complacent. St Mirren have been doing very well and ought to cause us a lot of troubles if we’re not at it from the beginning.

The cause of Cameron Carter-Vickers’ Celtic problems is explained by Brendan Rodgers; return chronology

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers says the knee operation Cameron Carter-Vickers went through in the course of the summer time has been the motive of the defender’s challenges at the Bhoys this season.

Carter-Vickers ended his 2022/23 season early and underwent a procedure on his knee to repair a long-standing problem he had been enjoying through, only returning to Celtic education at the tail-end of pre-season preparations.

He was thrust back into motion in early August however almost straight away picked up a hamstring damage that saved him out till October.

The United States international managed to make 15 in addition appearances earlier than limping out of the fit towards Dundee mid-week but it was clear he had been managing ongoing fitness issues even when making match-day squads.

Rodgers is now hoping his cutting-edge spell on the sidelines will allow him to utterly put together for a essential second half of of the season.

Celtic boss on Cameron Carter-Vickers injury issues

Confirming he’ll be out until after the iciness break, the Bhoys manager said [Herald Sport, 30/12 print edition]: “It’s been a assignment for Cam. Talking to the guys before, he hadn’t picked up a lot of injuries, he was once pretty robust. But considering he’s had his knee operation, it’s been a assignment for him.

“Speaking to John Kennedy and asking him about that sort of experience round the knee, you cease up compensating a lot. So it’s maybe going to take him a wee bit of time to get that rhythm returned again.

“That’s how it’s been for him. He in no way had a ideal pre-season. He was on his own. So, he’s always been catching up on his fitness. But optimistically he can get free of that for the 2d part of the season because he’s a top notch player and has achieved outstanding for Celtic in his time here.”

Thankfully the 25-year-old is no longer going to be out for a long-term duration – this used to be validated through Rodgers in his pre-match media conference.

Ideally, he’ll be again in training at some stage in the January downtime and returned in the crew for the return of the Scottish Premiership on January 27th at domestic to Ross County. That’s a month except matches that will with a bit of luck serve him very well.

What’s most important is that he is given the time to entirely relaxation up, as an alternative than be rushed returned into resolution too quickly. These ongoing issues have a tendency to increase if left unchecked and the closing aspect the player, or Celtic, needs is to go through a muscle tear.

Then we can be assured he’s prepared to get back to his pleasant once he is in contention.

Sydney van Hooijdonk ‘destined’ for Celtic transfer after unseen scouting mission The Ange factor could provide the final push

Reports in Italy state that the Dutchman is on the Parkhead agenda with January speedy approaching.

Sydney van Hooijdonk Out of favour Bologna striker Sydney van Hooijdonk is “destined” to make a cross to Celtic in January, according to a report in Italy.

The son of former Hoops’ hero Pierre was touted with a pass to the Scottish Premiership champions remaining summer time but Thiago Motta closed the exit door for the 23-year-old as he used to be supplied a danger to galvanize his boss in Serie A. However, he has struggled for normal sport time netting simply one goal in his nine appearance this term – which have generally come off the bench.

Brendan Rodgers are in dire need of attacking reinforcements when the January window opens – with Yang and Oh Hyeon-gyu heading off for the Asian Cup with South Korea while Daizen Maeda and Kyogo Furuhashi probable to observe when the Japan squad is announced. Reports in Italy had in the past claimed that Celtic chiefs had made “initial” inquiries over Van Hooijdonk’s availability.

And Corriere di Bologna now declare that the striker is “destined” to leave in January with Celtic’s eyes “falling” on the Dutchman. Bologna are stated to open to a deal if they can discover a replacement with Hoops scouts said to have watched the participant this term.

That should require a favour from former Parkhead boss Ange Postecoglou. Several reviews in England say that the Tottenham supervisor is open to shifting on Alejo Veliz on loan – with Bologna registering an interest. That should be the domino that falls to set a Van Hooijdonk arrival at Bologna in motion.

The departure of Harry Kewell from Celtic is imminent

Harry Kewell in the procedure of finalising backroom staff ahead of Yokohama F. Marinos appointment…

Harry Kewell, First Team Coach of Celtic, looks on prior to the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Celtic FC and Heart of Midlothian at Celtic Park on March 08, 2023. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Celtic coach, Harry Kewell is in the procedure of finalising his backroom team of workers earlier than he departs Celtic Park for Japan. The Australian was brought to the club two years ago, when fellow countryman Ange Postecoglou added the former Liverpool and Leeds United winger to his coaching staff. It used to be a profitable move all round which garnered foremost results as the Hoops romped to a home Treble remaining season.

The club’s wingers have all remarked how effective an affect Kewell has been on their very own respective careers’ but more importantly, around the whole group up at Lennoxtown generally. Kewell was once always going to harbour ambitions of moving into management again at some point following his stint in the English decrease leagues with various employers.

Harry Kewell, First Team Coach of Celtic, gestures prior to the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Celtic FC and Heart of Midlothian at Celtic Park on March 08, 2023 (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Now that we comprehend the man that Ange introduced to the club is certainly leaving in the next few days and has just to finalise the contributors of his very own backroom staff for his new adventure. Brendan Rodgers has previously referred to he wouldn’t stand in any of his coaches’ way if they desired to attempt their personal hand at management on their personal away from Parkhead.

That now looks like becoming a fact and Celtic will as soon as again be on the lookout for a sparkling recruit at Paradise. Harry replaced Damien Duff in essence, after he determined to go his personal way a few years back when Postecoglou first got here into the club. We’re lower back to rectangular one in this respect once more and no doubt Brendan Rodgers will have his very own thoughts and perhaps even an eye on any person who he is aware of well.

No surprises but from what I’ve heard Kewell & Hutchinson to Yokohama #FMarinos both done 🇦🇺

Celtic’s Kewell will replace countryman Muscat at #JLeague club.

Fellow Aussie Hutchinson, who has been working at city rivals Yokohama FC, will return to Marinos as assistant. pic.twitter.com/Sp0eHwsvf5

— Sacha Pisani (@Sachk0) December 27, 2023

Paul Gillespie

Celtic mainstay excited about Rangers match for reasons other than opening up an eight-point lead

Perpetual undulations seem at work for Celtic in this season’s title race.

As they headed out of Dens Park late on Boxing Day after a pleasurable 3-0 success that put similarly distance between them and the latest back-to-back league defeats shaking the club to their core, there was only one discussion-point round Brendan Rodgers’ side. It took the structure of the likely need to keep away from defeat in Saturday’s derby to stop them dropping their region at the summit of Scottish Premiership. However, the storm-induced tour disruptions for Ross County that forced the postponement of their bitter rivals’ web hosting of the Highland side the following night has positioned a specific slant on the disagreement at the weekend.

Suddenly, it is a recreation that affords Celtic the possibility to set up an eight-point hole over opponents fully revitalised below Philippe Clement, but who have contested two fewer video games than the adversaries whose league crown is firmly in their sights. Yet, it is no longer this backdrop that it appears Greg Taylor is set to consider when he ruminates on a match-up where there is “only three factors on the line; like each and every other league game”. Instead, it is the full force of the complete 60,000 ability at Celtic Park willing him and his team-mates on – a end result of his club denying Rangers any ticket allocation – that appears to whet his appetite.

Three weeks ago, the atmosphere at the stadium used to be toxic with chants of ‘sack the board’ reverberating as Rodgers’ guys slumped to a 2-0 loss in opposition to Hearts that consigned Celtic to a first home league defeat in nearly three years. At least initially, the backing will be ordinary – as it was once even as Celtic trooped off the pitch at the cease of a first-half at Dens the place they have been unable to pressure a breakthrough. The Scotland full-back delighting in the travelling fans being “right up for it”, as is a given for Rangers coming to their patch. “[It is an] splendid feeling,” he said. “Having a stadium full of your own fans, right behind you pushing you from the second go. So it’ll be interesting and we are all looking forward to it.”

The Dundee success following on from a convincing-enough 2-0 home win over Livingston prompts the belief in an anticipated temper swing. Taylor, though, doesn’t concur with the contention that in the aftermath of the Hearts reverse – on the returned of a second-half fall down that resulted in a 2-1 defeat at Kilmarnock – there may additionally have been too lots of a rush to forget about that even this season Celtic have proven they can be a pressure to be reckoned with. “No, I wouldn’t say so,” Taylor said. “We had disappointing performances and, when that comes, you get a bit of stick. That’s normal, in particular at a club this size. The supporters demand performances and results. The two defeats together weren’t suitable enough, so, no, I suppose it used to be justified we took a bit of stick, but there are a lot of boys in there [the dressing room] with big, broad shoulders who can take it and go out and show [people] wrong.”

The first leaks of Celtic’s 2024/25 home kit have surfaced

Adidas is currently entering the last year of its five-year partnership with Celtic, initiated in 2020, and has produced a range of football strips that have sparked various opinions among fans.

The designs have oscillated between being hailed as special and elegant to being criticised as unappealing.

The modern speculation about subsequent season’s home shirt, primarily based on leaks mentioned by Footy Headlines, has stirred up discussion. According to these leaks, the new design, which follows a latest Adidas template, has not been officially confirmed yet.

However, if the leaked designs are accurate, the upcoming shirt is already producing strong reactions, with some suggesting it could be regarded one of the least favourable Celtic shirts to date.

This is a diagram that’s been mocked up that Footy Headlines believes will be close to the completed article.

Breaking the hoops… that won’t go down well.

What some followers might think about a daring and sparkling look, others may see as a departure from subculture or an aesthetic misstep.

For Celtic and Adidas, the challenge lies in balancing innovation with tradition, ensuring that new designs admire the club’s rich heritage whilst also appealing to present day tastes. As the present day contract nears its end, it stays to be considered how this partnership will evolve and what impact it will have on the future aesthetic of Celtic’s kits.

Pundit asserts Since Rodgers’ initial stint, Celtic has been considering strikers

It is no mystery that Brendan Rodgers and Celtic are in the market for a striker this January. Marco Tilio has already been misplaced to the Asian Cup, and so ought to the likes of Kyogo, Daizen Maeda, Oh, and Reo Hatate.

This may want to immediate the Hoops into signing a new frontman, and in accordance to Portuguese outlet O JOGO, they are one of two aspects main the race for Wolves striker Fabio Silva.

The 21-year-old moved to Molineux for a enormous 40 million euros (Transfermarkt) as a teenager. He is nevertheless but to spoil into the first-team in the Black u . s . a . after spells on mortgage at PSV and Anderlecht the place he made a combined fifty one appearances, and registered 22 goal contributions all-in.

Any move for Silva would be a loan, but he is a participant who has long been on the radar at Parkhead, in accordance to Andy Walker: “He used to be on Celtic’s radar a quantity of years ago”, he stated (Go Radio via Daily Record). “I consider doing a recreation down south and he used to be enjoying for Wolves. They were all talking about the activity from Celtic. He has obtained skill. He has received capability and performed at a right level. That was throughout Brendan’s first spell in charge.”

Undoubtedly, the champions want reinforcements in attack. Questions have been raised, though, over whether or not Silva is the tested nice that is needed.

Just 21, it would be unfair to count on a player of his age in a hotly contested title race. The judgement of Brendan Rodgers will need to be trusted, however, and Silva virtually looks like a man who is of activity to the Parkhead gaffer.

‘I was told,’ Sky Pundit explains why Celtic did not sign a striker this summer

Celtic’s seeming incapacity to signal a striker in the summer time switch window used to be down to one key purpose according to Sky Sports’, Anthony Joseph.

Joseph said he used to be informed that the reason why Celtic never purchased another striker was once down to another summer season signing’s ability to play that ahead role.

Joseph said [The Celtic Exchange Podast], “Celtic nearly have been saying, surely what I was being told, used to be that that they’re not going to be getting a striker in earlier than the stop of the window.

“And also with one supply telling me that Luis Palma can additionally play up front. And I keep in mind placing that out there was that it’s searching increasingly more not likely that Celtic will go again in for Kvistgaarden, they are not likely to carry in a striker because Luis Palma can also play up front due to the fact that was once what I was being told.”

Now I can apprehend the club’s, or Brendan Rodgers‘ reasons for this. With Hyeongyu Oh as the backup to Kyogo Furuhashi, having Palma handy as a 1/3 alternative negated the necessity to payout for any other frontman.

Indeed, even Daizen Maeda can fill in as a lone striker however this design had one deadly flaw. It appears that injuries and the terrible form (or quality) of the other summer signings were not taken into account.

Losing Maeda and Leil Abada to injury has been a large blow for Rodgers. That coupled with Hyunjun Yang and Mikey Johnston both failing to impress meant that the Celtic manager’s capability to utilise his squad efficaciously has hurt consequences on the pitch.

With no creativity from the broad areas, Kyogo has struggled to hit the goalscoring structure that the Celtic fans have come to be accustomed to as the team’s current struggles have shown.

Hopefully with the benefit of hindsight, Rodgers will now seem to be to January to see if he can bolster that vicinity of the team because if he needs to win this title and the £60m that goes with it, the Celtic manager will need to enhance his firepower.

‘Conversations I had’: A Sky journalist discusses the sum he has heard Celtic would accept for Matt O’Riley

The activity in Matt O’Riley from other golf equipment so a ways this season has been huge. The midfielder has been in fantastic structure and is attracting interest from golf equipment throughout Europe.

The 23-year-old’s upward jab to stardom has been quite wonderful and it seems that as his worldwide attention grows alongside his performances in the Champions League, Celtic should earn a fortune if, and when, they figure out to promote him.

So what can Celtic count on to fetch for O’Riley? A report fee? That really looks to be what the club will be searching for after Anthony Joseph shared what he’s been advised would be an desirable sum of money to make Celtic do business.

Joseph stated [The Celtic Exchange Podcast], “Celtic is in a very top function regarding Matt O’Riley. He’s simply signed a new contract, a bumper contract at that.

“Celtic rejected £10 million from Leeds United in the remaining couple of days of the transfer window and that kind of sparked Celtic looking to get him down on accelerated terms.

“I imply when Leeds have been coming in with £10 million bids the thinking method was, certainly from the conversations I had, I don’t assume Celtic would have entertained anything under £15 million.

“But even £15 million probable wouldn’t have finished it. It would have had to be around £20 million to open that conversation, I assume anyway.

“And with a new contract that’s got to be the case again. The reality he signed a new contract I would reckon Celtic wouldn’t open the conversation until until there used to be £20 million perhaps even up to £25 million.”

For me, I hope Celtic don’t appear to promote O’Riley in January. With the league title in the balance and a £60m Champions League bounty up for grabs, it would be foolish for the membership to even ponder it right now.

If Celtic can get the league title over the line then they need to at least strive and hold onto the 23-year-old for some other season.

One extra crack at the Champions League may additionally be enough to tempt him to stay on but Celtic must enhance as a consequence due to the fact O’Riley won’t be joyful to continue to be on the incorrect cease of any more embarrassing results in Europe’s top competition.

Brendan Rodgers makes allusions to Reo Hatate’s impending comeback

The Celtic Star attended the post-match media conference at Celtic Park this afternoon after the Hoops defeated Livingston 2-0, a scoreline that flattered David Martindale’s relegation favourites who furnished a perfect instance of anti-football this afternoon and should be proud of preserving the scoreline decent having had zero photographs at goal and zero corner-kicks.

Jessica Elliott attended on behalf of The Celtic Star and even managed to have a wee chat with the supervisor after the convention ended. Here’s what used to be said:

Q: Feels like you’re getting again to your historic selves?

Brendan Rodgers: “Listen, it used to be a very correct win. It’s obviously been a difficult week on the back of the two league results that we’ve had. Naturally, when you’re a Celtic player or coach, it’s now not what you want. But today, I thinking the gamers have been excellent. Right from the first whistle, the tempo in the game was certainly good. We could manage the game. Created lots of possibilities and possibly the players didn’t get what they deserved out of the game, which was once probably a higher score line. Some in reality accurate moments in the recreation and delighted with the overall performance and win.

Kyogo Furuhashi of Celtic celebrates after scoring his team’s opening goal during the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Livingston at Celtic Park  on December 23, 2023. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Q: You spoke the day before today about harmony and how every body needs to get at the back of the team. At half-time, there could’ve been frustration about not scoring but there wasn’t?

Brendan Rodgers: “Clearly, the supporters here, they’re no longer daft. They recognize football. You know, there’s been a few games here where we haven’t been as comprehensive as what we had been going into half-time, however I assume they can see that we have been developing opportunities, we simply hadn’t put the probabilities away.

“That’s what I strengthened to the players at half-time. Just that you have to be power now. You don’t want to change anything, simply keep the structure, hold the speed in the game and the possibilities will come. Thankfully we got the early breakthrough, and we may want to push on from that.”

Luiyi de Lucas of Livingston vies with Kyogo Furuhashi of Celtic during the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Livingston at Celtic Park Stadium on December 23, 2023 . (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Q: Is it necessary that Kyogo received a goal?

Brendan Rodgers: “I suppose he’s three dreams short of where he was final season. For me, it’s greater important for the team. The team desires it. Clearly, strikers, attacking players, it’s their job to create and rating dreams so I suppose you seen the alleviation in his face. He was pleased to score and it used to be a precise finish due to the fact he’s read it well, move comes and it used to be fantastic for him to get the goal, due to the fact he had some different opportunities that didn’t quite drop for him. From a crew perspective, it’s precisely what we needed.”

Q: What’s Kyogo like? Does he get a bit down when he doesn’t score or is his confidence nonetheless high?

Brendan Rodgers: “I suppose it’s one the place there’s in all likelihood been moments of frustration for him this season because he maybe hasn’t quite had the ball through or maybe had the runs in in the back of that permits him to get into positions that clearly highlights his clever movement. But he’s stored going. He’s saved persistent. He’s of course got this shoulder issue, however he’s kept working and that’s important.

“Like I say, he’s simply brief of where he was once remaining season in terms of goals, however I suppose any striker – they favor to get goals. For me, it’s not about just the striker because you can have a striker that receives 40 goals but it’s not excellent if the different participants of the group aren’t contributing. So yeah, exceptional to get a aim for him. Also great to get one from a set piece as well. For me, we need to be plenty higher in that area, so we looked a threat from these moments and needless to say get the intention from Liam.”

Q: Pleased with the contribution from Luis Palma?

Brendan Rodgers: “Yeah. I assume seeing that he’s come in, in equity to him, he’s created dreams and scored goals. Like you say, he’s very right on these dead ball situations. It was once proper contribution from him.”

Q: Does Reo Hatate have a danger of playing on Tuesday or Saturday?

Brendan Rodgers: “Possibility, however we’ll simply have to see on that. He’s been out on the grass and he’s been working well. He appears sturdy and fit. We’ll simply have to verify that and weigh up the risk.

“For the 2d part of the season, he’s going to be huge for us. He’s such an instrumental player and the dynamic that he offers the team. He hasn’t featured plenty in the first part of the season however a sport he got here in to until now on in the season, the whole pace of the sport used to be different.

“That’s what we’re about, that tempo, that intensity. So the quicker we get him back, it’ll be like a new signing for us.”

Daizen Maeda of Celtic shoots at goal during the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Celtic FC and Livingston FC at Celtic Park Stadium on December 23, 2023 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Q: Maeda came in these days and did his bit. Is Abada close to returning?

Brendan Rodgers: “He’s getting there as well. We’ll just have to see with Liel. He’s been out for a little while, however I think, for the likes of Liel, if it’s now not for the next few video games then virtually by using the 2nd part of the season, he should be a gorgeous help to the team.

“Daizen receives his recreation time today. You can see he’s not thoroughly suit however it’s every other recreation for him, another 60 ordinary minutes and that’ll help him.”

Q: Does having Maeda return to the beginning line-up help elevate the tempo of the team?

Brendan Rodgers: “Football will constantly look exclusive if you’ve got gamers with the profile of velocity in the game, and that’s how this group has been built. The minute you take that out, that penetration to go in behind, then everything can be in the front and that’s no longer how my groups work or how this team works. You can see the chance he affords in behind puts human beings on the backfoot and then it places you into depth which is the place you choose to go due to the fact you favor to create possibilities and be able to score goals. So, he gives us that and it’s precise to have him back. And when Abada comes back, he’ll supply us that and we’ll see what we can do in January as properly to amplify that.”

Brendan Rodgers gives Chris Sutton a slap for “going through the motions” in the Celtics game

BRENDAN RODGERS has refuted suggestions from former Celtic striker Chris Sutton that he is ‘going through the motions’ at some stage in his second spell in charge of the club, saying that he nevertheless has the fire to carry success to Celtic Park.

Speaking on the Daily Mail ‘It’s all Kicking Off’ podcast earlier this week, Sutton argued that Rodgers had to count on greater of the blame for current ‘flat’ performances, saying: “At the second this Celtic team are disjointed and going thru the motions. And there’s a fair argument to suggest Brendan Rodgers has been going through the motions this season.”

But the Celtic supervisor gave short shrift to Sutton’s comments, saying that he would never have had the success he has during his profession if he wasn’t giving his all to his job.

“That’s the first I’ve heard of that,” Rodgers said.

“In my career, I wouldn’t be sat right here if I went thru the motions in anything.

“I had no massive enjoying career, no large records in the game. I had to fight for the whole thing I received in the game.

“That will continually be the case. I’ve in no way been granted any privileges in my existence as a younger coach and as a manager.

“So, no, I’ve sincerely now not long past via the motion, that’s for sure.

“[The fire]’s nevertheless constantly there. I’m here to win, I’ve stated that before, and I understand how to win. It’s now not new.

“I stated that to gamers in here in the past in the season, when we had the game in opposition to St Johnstone at home. I’m here to win, now not to draw and simply not to lose games. And I be aware of how to win. And that’s something that, over time, with any luck I can exhibit here.

“I was here in my first time with a group of players who I used to be able to maximise the attainable of simply all of them. It will be the identical here. With the right profile of gamers – and players we can bring up – they will do that. That’s what I’ve performed all my career.

“So, no, I’m really not going via the motions. It’s a exclusive duration of my managerial career, however I’m virtually not going thru the motions.”

While he bristled a little at that accusation from Sutton, Rodgers insists that the flak presently coming his way after the defeats to Kilmarnock and Hearts has no effect on him or on his team.

“I don’t hear to it,” he said.

“I assume there used to be criticism due to the fact we misplaced but I couldn’t tell you where it’s come from or who it’s been given from.

“That’s phase of the role of a manager. You learn to alter that. I’m also one who, with experience, in no way receives too emotional with words.

“I determine matters logically and the truth was that we weren’t correct enough. For some thing reason. Second 1/2 towards Kilmarnock, towards Hearts – we weren’t excellent enough. There are classes there for us as a team. Hopefully we can heed these lessons, that’s part of the challenge.

“In phrases of criticism, listen, it takes place when you’re no longer winning. It’s some thing that should have an effect on you when you’re a very younger manager, but it doesn’t [affect] me.

“I’m here with a mentality to make this proper and with a bit of luck we can supply that.”

 approaching.

Celtic and Rangers will go head-to-head at Celtic Park in their remaining fixture of 2023 on December 30 in a in shape that, as ever, is possibly to have huge ramifications on the title race. The Hoops currently have a 5 factor lead over their Glasgow opponents however Philippe Clement’s guys do have a game in hand.

Last weekend’s defeat to Kilmarnock for the reigning champions, mixed with the fact that the Gers have not misplaced a healthy since the Frenchman’s arrival, has many predicting a title race that could go the distance. However, on Celtic legend remains assured that his ancient membership will as soon as again go on and raise the trophy at the stop of the season.

Paul Lambert used to be talking to Betway and believes that the Hoops are still very tons ‘favourites’ to win the league. He said: “It’ll be very hard to claw the title-fight again if they lose the subsequent Old Firm game. This will be Phillipe Clement’s first trip of the Old Firm, whereas Brendan and the Celtic gamers know all about it.

“There will additionally be a ban on Rangers followers – some thing it’s crazy to me as followers are such a huge part of the rivalry. We saw the equal element happen at Ibrox returned in May – and I assume that was once terrible, too.

“Clement is strolling into a recreation the place his global ride means nothing. This sport is specific from any different because of what it stands for. If Celtic win, I suppose they’re in the drivers’ seat. If Rangers get a result, then the title race will be back on. However, I still suppose Celtic are favourites as they’re at home.”