Xabi Alonso looks to break the Celtic record as Bayer Leverkusen approaches history

The runaway Bundesliga leaders could quickly overtake Brendan Rodgers’ Invincibles after stretching their unbeaten run

Unstoppable Bayer Leverkusen are closing in on Celtic’s proud 42-game unbeaten run record.

The runaway Bundesliga leaders lately surpassed Hansi Flick’s Bayern Munich category of 2020 and 2021 in the report books for the longest run besides defeat by way of a German group across all competitions. Xabi Alonso’s rampant aspect have now long past 38 consecutive matches without losing in their unrelenting pursuit of a maiden top-flight title.

The Treble-chasing Germans also face Düsseldorf in the semi-finals of the DFB-Pokal Cup and West Ham in the Europa League quarter-finals as they stand on the cusp of a well-known season. Their notable structure has seen them surge into a prestigious listing of clubs with the longest unbeaten runs on the grounds that 2000 in all competitions from Europe’s top ten leagues.

And now, they should eclipse Brendan Rodgers’ Treble-winning Invincibles of 2016-17 if they manipulate to keep away from defeat in their subsequent five video games – beginning with Hoffenheim in the league today. Celts boast the second-longest run, one recreation in the back of Italian giants Juventus. With the help of our buddies at Transfermarkt, Football Scotland looks at the pinnacle 10 longest unbeaten streaks in all competitions due to the fact that the turn of the millennium.

10) PSG

9) Porto

8) Bayer Leverkusen

7) Barcelona

6) PSV

5) Inter Milan

4) Real Madrid

3) Inter Milan

2) Celtic

1) Juventus

Callum McGregor is absent from Celtic training ahead of their trip to Livingston

Celtic are getting ready for a day out to Livingston this Sunday in the Scottish Premiership as the enterprise quit of the season well and simply begins.

While the information surrounding the enlarge in away allocations for Glasgow derbies motivated followers this morning, Callum McGregor’s absence from education will not.

11th February 2024; St Mirren Park, Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland, Scottish Cup Football, St Mirren versus Celtic; Callum McGregor of Celtic

Ahead of the weekend’s match, The Bhoys organized these days and whilst the likes of Liam Scales, Maik Nawrocki, and Reo Hatate were all involved, the skipper wasn’t:

The remaining update we had on McGregor was from manager Brendan Rodgers two weeks ago. Then, he stated that he predicted the midfielder to return post-international break and that he’d be assessed pre-Livi.

If he has been assessed and is not in training, it is no longer a appropriate sign although it doesn’t mean he won’t play at Ibrox.

There will inevitably be hypothesis surrounding his absence, but we can only believe what we hear from the horse’s mouth, and gaffer Rodgers will communicate to the media later this afternoon.

Celtic expert makes a “big” claim as the £6 million “negotiation” starts

Celtic big name Paulo Bernardo might also not get steady minutes if he signed permanently from Benfica.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Hoops and West Ham striker Frank McAvennie claimed that the club are currently “negotiating” to lower the Portugal under-21 international’s reported £6million launch clause.

Bernardo, 22, moved to Parkhead on a season-long mortgage from Benfica ultimate summer however has only made 11 league starts offevolved under Brendan Rodgers, notching two goals and two assists.

While he hit first rate shape in December and January, he has no longer provided a aim contribution considering the fact that the Hoops’ 3-0 win in opposition to St Mirren (2 January) and has frequently been benched for the likes of Matt O’Riley and Tomoki Iwata.

Celtic negotiating new fee with Benfica for Paulo Bernardo

McAvennie claimed that he would hold the midfielder at the club for a “decent price”, but feared that he would conflict to make an have an effect on and that such a price should be better spent elsewhere.

“They’re negotiating his Bernardo’s fee tag at the moment,” he told Football Insider.

“If they can get him completely for a first rate price, I’d be happy.

“But is he going to play consistently? That’s my biggest problem.

“I like Iwata and he’s going to be playing for the period of the season and Reo Hatate is going to walk again into the team.

“It’s up to Brendan and the participant himself to see if he plays.

“You have Callum McGregor, you have O’Riley – that’s 4 gamers in Bernardo’s places.

“Would followers want Bernardo in earlier than any of those? I don’t assume so.

“He can’t see a bypass like Hatate can.

“The first component that Hatate does is seem to be ahead and seem to be for the striker.

“That’s what Celtic have been missing, I don’t care what anyone says.

“It will be tough for Bernardo.”

Lawyer Nick De Marco has successfully defended Celtic in the past

Celtic is getting ready to robustly shield supervisor Brendan Rodgers against costs levied through the Scottish Football Association concerning his essential remarks about officiating.

The club has enlisted the information of renowned prison specialist Nick De Marco, who is no stranger to representing Celtic in high-stakes cases.

De Marco’s previous successful illustration of Celtic got here in 2019 for the duration of an incident involving club captain Scott Brown and his get together in front of Rangers fans, a state of affairs that had viable disciplinary consequences.

Brown was cleared of any wrongdoing by using the SFA after a hearing, heading off a ban that should have sidelined him for indispensable matches. The defence approach employed at the time centered on highlighting the double standards in the SFA’s approach, supported via compelling video evidence.

Delighted to have successfully represented Celtic captain Scott Brown in his case before the Scottish FA today – now looking forward to watching him play at the match tomorrow #Celtic #SFA #ScottBrown https://t.co/aYSAaw6gNv

— Nick De Marco KC (@nickdemarco_) April 26, 2019

Celtic may undertake a similar strategy in defending Rodgers, aiming to show through video proof that the manager’s criticisms of VAR’s influence and the officiating all through the defeat to Hearts were justified.

Rodgers expressed his frustration in no unsure terms, labelling the refereeing choices during the fit as “incompetence.”

This outspoken critique has led to a hearing set for Thursday, where Rodgers faces the possibility of a suspension that should see him absent from the dugout for large upcoming matches, consisting of the incredibly predicted Glasgow Derby in opposition to Rangers.

Celtic’s decision to convey in De Marco, a lawyer with a song report of navigating complex soccer legalities, indicates the club’s dedication to challenging the SFA’s cost against Rodgers.

Given De Marco’s preceding success in representing Celtic and his journey in a range of high-profile football cases, the club will be hopeful of securing a beneficial outcome.

Ex – Celtic player is brutally attacked by a Tottenham legend in the midst of reports that the team is selling

A former Celtic participant has been the recipient of some scathing criticism from an ex-Tottenham star.

On Friday evening, March 22, Scotland had been defeated 4-0 through The Netherlands in an global friendly in Amsterdam. Former Celtic celebrity Jeremie Frimpong featured in the game for the Flying Dutchmen – but ex-Tottenham superstar Rafael Van der Vaart was once now not impressed with the 23-year-old’s performance.

He drew ire with his team’s display as a collective unit, announcing the sport ‘could without difficulty have finished 4-0 for Scotland’ and branded the overall performance as ‘average’ – however, he singled out Frimpong to bear the brunt of his criticism. He referred to as upon Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman to begin Denzel Dumfries as a substitute of Frimpong at the Euros, announcing he is ‘not there yet’ in terms the ‘level required’ on the global stage.

Frimpong signed for Celtic in the summer time of 2019, following the stop of his nine-year stay in Manchester City’s academy. He went on to make 36 league appearances for the Bhoys, scoring three goals along the way – in 2021, he used to be snapped up with the aid of Bayer Leverkusen for an undisclosed amount.

What did Rafael Van der Vaart say about Jeremie Frimpong?

In the wake of The Netherlands’ victory over the Tartan Army, Van der Vaart said: “I didn’t study an awful lot looking at us towards Scotland. We had been very mediocre. Actually, it used to be incredible that we gained 4-0, because it should easily have finished 4-0 for Scotland.

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“We did see some true moments, however not many and it used to be a very average display from us to be honest. The conclusion I got here to in terms of the players is that Denzel Dumfries virtually ought to play as an alternative of Jeremie Frimpong at the Euros. That became very apparent against Scotland. Look, Frimpong is a desirable participant and may additionally well get to the stage required. But he’s now not there yet and Dumfries is our first choice right back.”

Callum McGregor not eligible for a coveted international award

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers will be eager to use the global spoil to make positive his squad are match-ready for the season run-in.

With eight games to go, the Bhoys take a seat one point ahead of Rangers in the Scottish Premiership title race heading into their day trip to Livingston on Sunday.

Of course, Rodgers also has the hazard to see his side’s identify inscribed on the Scottish Cup trophy for the second yr going for walks if they can negotiate a intricate tie in opposition to Aberdeen at Hampden in the final four, observed via a victory over Rangers or Heart of Midlothian in the final.

Nevertheless, the Irishman won’t be getting too beforehand of himself, with his fundamental focal point possibly to be on making sure his key guys return for our closing charge in the direction of the end line.

Later this week, when we travel to West Lothian, club captain Callum McGregor, Japanese midfielder Reo Hatate, and Republic of Ireland defender Liam Scales could all return for the contest against David Martindale’s outfit.

The former has been left out of Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad due to his present day injury status; however, as lengthy as he is fit, McGregor is a shoo-in to be on the aircraft to Germany for EURO 2024.

Despite his absence, Greg Taylor and Anthony Ralston have linked up with the Tartan Army over the break, and the latter came on as a late alternative in a 4-0 defeat to the Netherlands final Friday [BBC Sport].

Celtic’s Callum McGregor misses out on global award

Earlier this month, McGregor received cognizance for his performances at global level by being nominated for the William Hill Men’s International Player of the Year.

Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay, Aston Villa captain John McGinn, and Norwich City’s Angus Gunn had been amongst the different names on a four-man shortlist for the prize, which Scottish Football Writers Association contributors have voted on since.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Scott McTominay has won the William Hill SFWA Men’s International Player of the Year award.

SFWA President, Chick Young, said: “Brilliantly done, Scott. We doff our caps to you. Now the hat-tricks in Germany are on you.”https://t.co/yjY8YzjtUa

— Scottish Football Writers’ Association (@scottishfwa) March 24, 2024

Unfortunately for McGregor, his Scotland teammate McTominay was once the eventual winner. In truth, it would’ve been hard to deny the 27-year-old, given his seven-goal tally during EURO 2024 qualifying that helped Scotland to qualify for Germany [SFWA reputable website].

Nevertheless, our captain also played an vital position in the nation’s success and will be predicted to be a key man for membership and united states from now till the quit of the season.

Hopefully, McGregor can pack his baggage for Germany this summer off the again of lifting two pieces of silverware for his club!

Celtic player Matt O’Riley refuses to rule out a summer transfer to Atlético

Celtic star and long-term Atlético Madrid goal Matt O’Riley used to be nowadays drawn on his future past the summer.

And his response is no doubt set to pique massive attentions on the purple 1/2 of the Madrid divide.

The name of midfielder O’Riley, of course, took its area the front and centre in the headlines in Spain in the course of the January transfer window.

This got here after phrase was once drawing close that the aforementioned Atlético had set their attractions firmly on his signature.

Having been completely impressed by the performances of the 23-year-old at some stage in the Champions League team stage fixtures between the clubs, and with O’Riley in the midst of a stellar marketing campaign – he has managed eleven desires and 15 assists to date – the brass at the Wanda Metropolitano moved forward with an opening proposal.

Their counterparts at Celtic Park, however, stood firm, adamant that the club’s crown jewel was once going nowhere halfway via the season.

And, on Friday, O’Riley himself has furnished a further perception into precisely why.

Speaking in an interview with Danish outlet Tipsbladet, as referred to by Mundo Deportivo, the all-action midfielder tested that the Scottish champions really ‘wanted more money’:

“Celtic received an provide from Atlético Madrid and it was good, but Celtic wanted more money. I’m now not upset about that. For me it used to be top notch that a membership like them wanted me. It’s now not regularly that you get an provide from Atlético Madrid, so of course it’s great.”

It was O’Riley’s ensuing comments which have on the grounds that turned heads in Madrid and Glasgow alike, though.

This comes with the former Fulham talent, after being drawn on the opportunity of linking up with Diego Simeone’s Atléti in the summer, having concluded:

“We’ll see what happens.”

West Brom has offered Mikey Johnston two things he did not have at Celtic

West Brom winger Mikey Johnston, borrowed on a mortgage switch from Celtic, has been a revelation at The Hawthorns considering the fact that January

Jed Wallace reckons his West Bromwich Albion attacking counterpart Mikey Johnston is currently the excellent player in the Championship after the storming have an effect on he has made at The Hawthorns following his January loan go from Scottish champions Celtic. Winger Johnston has been electric on the left for Carlos Corberan since breaking into the side.

In seven starts, he has scored six desires and, on throughout Albion’s 2-0 win over Bristol City on Saturday, he performed a hand in each desires as Tom Fellows and then Wallace himself netted both aspect of half of time to prolong the Baggies’ modern unbeaten run. Johnston bagged a brace in the trouncing of Huddersfield Town a week before and has already established a habit of slicing interior and catching opposing goalkeepers unaware.

Mikey Johnston of West Brom (Image: Phil Oldham/REX/Shutterstock)

It’s form which has helped Albion enormously to hold their play-off charge, after an otherwise uncertain winter; having misplaced Jeremy Sarmiento when his mortgage was cut short, Johnston’s acquisition – coupled with the progress made by way of Fellows – has left Albion in a a lot better form than they had been previously. Wallace has been very taken with the aid of the Irish international’s impact and sees the confidence levels flowing in his new environment.

“Right now, for me, he is the first-class participant in the league at the moment, the way he’s playing,” he said. “He really stated to me after the QPR recreation ‘maybe I should’ve performed you in on one of them’ and I stated ‘the way you are enjoying you simply kick it closer to the intention and we are going to go from there!’ He’s on furnace at the moment. Jonno’s been extraordinary and I’m happy for him.

“When you’re at a big club like Celtic and humans there maybe do not agree with in him possibly as a lot as he would like, confidence-wise it is super to see people step outside their alleviation zone, come here and do well. We wished that in January. All three in their very own way, even Cal, I know he’s not performed a lot of football but his enthusiasm is brilliant, he drags human beings [along] in education with his power and Andi scored a couple of massive dreams for us.

“January additions have given us a actual power and now we have Matty and Josh to come lower back into it as well, you have to trust what Carlos is doing because he is aware of it’s a 95-minute game of football and you’ve viewed these days our goals off the bench, that can make a difference with the squad and substitutes we can bring on.”

Johnston additionally made a sizeable stride forward in phrases of his own fitness degrees on Saturday; having not performed 90 minutes in a competitive suit on account that his mortgage spell with Portuguese outfit Vitoria Guimaraes last May, he accomplished his first sport for Albion in opposition to the Robins. That ought to stand him in specifically good stead for the remainder of this marketing campaign as Albion searching for to cement their region in the play-offs.

“It was once a long time on account that he remaining performed a full game,” Carlos Corberan pointed out. “It’s important for him to keep developing as a player, bodily and in each component of the game. You cannot solely consider the players from desires and assists, because in the 2d aim he gave the help to the participant that assisted.

“I think in frequent his contribution is constantly essential however he is aware very well and the truth he is one winger who performs huge and inside, even on the right, and to end attacks, to end collective actions, to help collective movements or end an person action. To have gamers in this degree is very important to win games.

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“It is continually vital as a player to destroy the restrict of their minutes, to extend the minutes, that helps you be greater ready to repeat those minutes or play with extra intensity if you play less minutes. That’s why it is a high-quality step. Hopefully he comes lower back fit and prepared to hold displaying what he is doing after the worldwide call he has very properly deserved.”

• Would you signal Johnston permanently? Tell us here.

Many Celtic fans don’t want Mikey Johnston back, according to Andy Walker

Andy Walker acknowledges that Celtic’s loaned-out famous person Mikey Johnston is doing properly at West Brom, but he thinks that not many Bhoys fans would choose him back.

Johnston, who performed a bit section position in the first half of of the season for Celtic, went out on loan to be a part of West Brom in the hope of ordinary recreation time.

The Celtic academy product has been outstanding due to the fact that his arrival at the Hawthorns, scoring six instances in his nine league games.

Walker thinks that Johnston has joined a terrific club in the form of West Brom and admitted that he is in notable shape with the Baggies.

However, the ex-Bhoys megastar pointed out that it is difficult for Celtic’s academy gamers to set up themselves in the first crew and thinks that regardless of Johnston’s correct displays with West Brom, there are no longer many fans who would like to welcome him returned to the club.

When discussing the young gamers having a challenging time setting up themselves in the Celtic first-team, Walker said on Go Radio Football Show: “It is so challenging for the likes of Rocco Vata and everyone who needs to attempt and make a title for themselves

“You see what Mikey Johnstone is doing at West Brom; he has gone to a terrific club, he is doing sincerely well, he is scoring goals, he is creating chances, but I don’t assume you would discover many Celtic supporters who would choose to have him back.”

Johnston is catching the eye in the English Championship and is probably to have takers in England if Celtic do now not choose to preserve him.

Liverpool hero sacked, and Celtic favorite pushed into crisis despite’magnificent’ Real Madrid performance

The Celtic defender executed a transfer away from Parkhead ultimate summer.

Carl Starfelt was a celebrity flip in opposition to some of the world’s satisfactory – but the Celtic favorite is now a leading dressing room determine after a Liverpool hero was sacked.

The Swedish megastar left the Hoops for Celta Vigo ultimate summer time and he has impressed at some point of his first season in La Liga, taking the captain’s armband on occasion. A 4-0 thumping used to be inflicted upon Rafa Benitez and co in opposition to Real Madrid at the weekend, and it has demonstrated the closing straw for club decision makers, who have sacked the man who gained the Champions League with Liverpool in 2005.

He leaves the club two factors above the drop zone. According to Spanish football expert Terry Gibson, the defender Ange Postecoglou signed for Celtic from Rubin Kazan in 2021 used to be the only brilliant spot on a stupid day. During time in Glasgow, the centre-back gained five domestic trophies.

The former Man Utd and Tottenham man told El Tel and Jon’s La Liga Weekly podcast: “Starfelt used to be the only exception. I concept he used to be astounding at the again on his own.”

Celta Vigo’s announcement on former Liverpool boss Benitez reads: “Rafa Benítez and his personnel leave RC Celta after eight months of absolute dedication and complete commitment. However, in the group has now not got the effects predicted by the club.

“The membership would like to categorical to Rafa Benítez and his assistants its most sincere gratitude for the honesty and professionalism they have shown when you consider that their arrival, and for their tireless. RC Celta would additionally like to wish them the high-quality of success and success in the future.”

Celtic launch new ‘Origins’ series with tribute to Irish heritage as fans fume about fifth top release of the season.

The membership are promoting the new jersey at £55 however have already had four other shirts launched this campaign.

Celtic have launched a FIFTH top of the season in a nod to their Irish Origins.

The Scottish champions gave fans a preview of what used to be coming on social media final night earlier than shedding the vary this morning with every other jersey phase of the collection alongside a coaching top, hoodie, education pants and a polo shirt. The tops will retail at £55 whilst a pair of running bottoms will set you lower back £48.

The new merchandise has been met by a mixed response with some supporters convinced it is simply another cash making scheme from the club as some pointed to the lack of spending in the January switch window to improve Brendan Rodgers’ squad for the Scottish Premiership title struggle with Rangers as they hit out. One Celtic supporter wrote: “Another Irish themed cash grab! too awful the board won’t spend the cash to improve the squad.” Another fan posted: Sorry @Celticfc, March is a hard time of the season to buy shirts. I tried, however couldn’t get the deal over.”

A similarly commented: “The regular fleecing fans again but refused to spend money in transfer window.” Matt O’Riley and Liam Scales both took phase in the promotional video for the new gear. The Hoops have already dropped new home, away and 0.33 kits this season. An anniversary adidas shirt was once also launched to mark one hundred twenty years of Hoops.

The membership wrote on their reputable internet site alongside the launch: “As a club famous for its proud Irish origins, Celtic FC are delighted to divulge our new 2023/24 adidas Irish Origins collection. This manufacturer new and prolonged collection follows the exceptional response to ultimate year’s one hundred and thirty fifth anniversary Origins Kit, permitting supporters in Scotland, Ireland and past to celebrate our connections, previous and present, with the Emerald Isle.

“An Irish identity is strongly woven into the cloth of Celtic Football Club on the grounds that Brother Walfrid – himself an Irishman – headquartered the club again in 1887. Thousands upon hundreds have sailed the Irish Sea to support the Bhoys over the years.

“Their ardour and that of the proud Irish gamers who have pulled on the Hoops for Celtic, alongside the managers and coaches who have been written into the club’s illustrious history, make sure that our Celtic connections are celebrated worldwide – then, now and always!”

Brendan Rodgers describes John Beaton’s rage; completely gets it

In the ongoing debate around the use of VAR and refereeing selections in Scottish football, Celtic’s manager Brendan Rodgers has provided more nuanced feedback following the controversial game against Hearts.

His earlier remarks sparked discussions, and now he seeks to clarify his stance, focusing particularly on the incidents from that match, as a substitute than making broader criticisms of the officiating system.

The Hoops boss was once unequivocal that he used to be not starting a witch hunt but really frustrated that supposedly top referees got it so wrong, speaking to SunSport, Rodgers said “That shouldn’t be the case and I’m no longer saying that – I’m talking about one recreation here. I’m talking about the sport at the weekend. I’m no longer talking about legacy problems or any different games. John’s refereed video games that he’s been sincerely proper in. So I don’t have an difficulty with that. I’m talking about that one recreation and that was once my view of that game. It’s not about anything else. Let’s focal point on the football and on making true decisions.”

He emphasised the significance of accountability in the game, noting that the involvement of experienced referees like John in the VAR for that sport was once now not a secret nor supposed to be a non-public attack. “We’re all accountable. Everyone is aware of he used to be in the VAR. So it’s no longer a secret – I haven’t cited anybody who would never have been known. My point was once greater that it used to be someone of that trip who looked at it. John’s been round for a whilst now – he’s refereed large games. So I wasn’t calling John out for his title to be out there.”

3rd March 2024; Tynecastle Park, Edinburgh, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Hearts versus Celtic; Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers applauds the away supporters after the match

Rodgers highlighted a contrasting incident involving referee Willie Collum to illustrate his point on the need for suitable use of judgment and experience in officiating. “It was once more, ‘This is a pinnacle referee managing the recreation and supposedly a top referee in VAR, underneath no pressure’. But they still acquired it wrong. That it was once two of your top referees. We had a notable one with Willie Collum the week before. There was once a shout for the participant to be despatched off, ‘Have a appear at this Willie’.”

He continued, “He gets a bit of stick, Willie Collum. But do you comprehend what? He ran over, he seemed at the display screen and he went, ‘No, no, no – it’s not!’. It didn’t seem to be like a sending off in the sport but there was once needless to say a shout for him to have a appear at it. But he ran over, he used his experience and said, ‘No, no. I get what you’re saying but it’s no longer a sending off’.”

Rodgers’ trendy remarks intention to shed light on the unique issues from the Hearts game, advocating for a focus on soccer and the enchancment of decision-making processes, alternatively than the predictable and protective closed rank nonsense we’ve saw from the SFA considering the game.

Celtic ace said goodbye to this Glasgow restaurant ahead move

A Celtic player said goodbye to one Glasgow restaurant after his new signing was once announced.

Liel Abada, 22, stopped at La Lanterna in Glasgow town centre after his £8million move to MLS side Charlotte FC was confirmed.

On Instagram, the Italian eatery said: “La Lanterna stated buon viaggio to one of its everyday clients the different day.

“But earlier than crossing the Atlantic, Liel Abada popped in to say goodbye.

“Buona fortuna in America.”

 

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A post shared by La Lanterna Glasgow (@lalanternaglasgow)

The  Israeli winger joined Celtic in July 2021 and performed a key role beneath Ange Postecoglou – winning five out of six domestic trophies available.

Philippe Clement’s newest complaint involves him mistakenly aligning with Celtic

Rangers manager Philip Clement has reputedly lent his voice to Celtic’s grievances with the handball rule. This sudden alignment got here to mild following a controversial second in Celtic’s latest match, where the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) came under scrutiny along with the handball rule.

Celtic observed themselves at the centre of debate after a VAR intervention led by way of John Beaton decided a handball offence against them. The incident in question noticed a Celtic participant Tomoki Iwara, knocked off balance and airborne, inadvertently make contact with the ball with his arm.

Notably, the player’s gaze was once now not even on the ball at the second of contact, highlighting the lack of intention in the back of the action. Despite the absence of a “clear and obvious error,” which commonly warrants VAR engagement, Beaton’s decision compelled on-field referee Don Robertson to trouble a penalty against Celtic.

Echoing Celtic’s concerns, albeit from his very own perspective, Clement expressed his dissatisfaction after Rangers’ 2-2 draw with Benfica. He criticised the penalty awarded in opposition to his group for a handball and openly disagreed with the present day trajectory of handball rulings inside the game. “I don’t agree with the place the sport is going with the handball situation.” [Football Scotland]

Celtic’s difficulty and Clement’s subsequent comments have highlighted a developing subject inside football related to the consistency and application of the handball rule and VAR.

Brendan Rodgers criticised the competency of the officials after his crew had been challenge to some weird decisions. Instead of dealing with the problems and being transparent, the SFA have closed keep and have charged the Celtic supervisor instead.

Mark Fotheringham declares Celtic and Rangers can be demolished by HIM as Huddersfield axe shuts out in aggressive job pitch

The experience educate spent five months as the predominant man at Huddersfield Town amidst a relegation scrap.

Confident Mark Fotheringham has declared he is the man to challenge Celtic and Rangers for the Scottish title – if he is handed a pinnacle job in Scotland.

Fotheringham spent time teaching in Germany – most fairly acting as assistant supervisor to Felix Magath at Hertha Berlin – and used to be recently working as section of Jurgen Klinsmann’s backroom team of workers with the South Korea global facet – before the German was once sacked – following an ill-fated five month spell at Huddersfield. He took over the warm seat with the facet struggling in the English Championship – and failed to drag them out of relegation hassle leaving with the club in twenty second spot in the table.

However, the former Dundee and Ross County midfielder insists he would be the man to challenge Rangers and Celtic if he is given the nod by using a Scottish Premiership club. Speaking to The Courier, Fotheringham said: “I would absolutely love to put the cat amongst the pigeons with the Old Firm in the future, and I trust I’m the man to do it.

“I experience it is extra workable now. If I do get one of the higher jobs in Scotland, then you’ll see any person who is passionate in his faith that you CAN motive Celtic and Rangers problems. I took myself out of my remedy area as a instruct so that, if I ever did come returned to work in Scotland, I would method the task with a distinct viewpoint to those who have labored here for the past 10 years…I don’t see myself as a risk – the CV is there and there is substance to it.”

Despite boasting plenty of teaching trip his first step into administration didn’t go as deliberate with Neil Warnock coming in to rescue Huddersfield from the drop. But Fotheringham insists he would have stored them in IF he had been given extra time.

“I should have been disappointed by means of the Huddersfield situation, having an owner that pulled the carpet from beneath my feet. They are another three managers down since I left, with some other £7m or £8m down the drain. And the managers that accompanied me had almost half a million extra on wages that I used to be given.

“That equates to three or four key players. I’ve obtained no doubt I would have saved them in the league. I was averaging more than a factor a game and, when analysing performances, we have been up on possession, recoveries, counters; everything. That was barring any investment to carry in my own gamers and put my very own stamp on it.”

Come on, John Hartson berates the radio host for his “daft” Celtic question in an excellent response

The stress to win the Scottish Premiership is actually ramping up and as each Celtic and Rangers suffered defeats this weekend, it truly is a toss of the coin who could end up as champions.

At one point Celtic have been in the using seat as they sat ten points clear at the pinnacle of the table but now two factors behind, Brendan Rodgers will be looking to reclaim that pinnacle spot sooner instead than later.

However, as the Hearts defeat nonetheless sinks in with each sets of supporters, former Celtic hero, John Hartson, is unwavering on who he thinks is going to be the victors this season.

But it nevertheless didn’t quit him having a pop at Paul Cooney on The Go Radio Football Show after the presenter asked Hartson who he thinking used to be going to in the title.

Cooney: “John who’s gonna win it?”

Hartson: “Well, what do you think? Seriously, what a daft query that is.”

Cooney: “It’s now not a daft question, John.”

Hartson: “It’s a absolutely daft question. one hundred ten goals I’ve scored for Celtic. Come on, Paul.”

Cooney: “John, I’ve asked many daft questions, however that’s no longer one of them. You stated last week it’s 60/40.“

Hartson: “Hold on, can we go again to VAR?”

Cooney: “It’s no longer a daft question John. You assume it’s Celtic and that’s fine. Of course, it is.”

Hartson: ‘Alright, I’ll provide you an answer, Celtic!”

It’s a query that is going to be asked from now till either membership takes the initiative and grabs the race for the championship via the scruff of the neck.

With four fixtures to go until the split, which includes a Glasgow Derby next month, there is no way of telling who will come up trumps yet.

But what it will come down to is a query of bottle. Who has the belly for the fight? With Celtic having more than one title winners in their squad, the smart money would be on the Parkhead membership however as always, you can simply in no way tell with football.

Alan Stubbs, an ex-Celtic player, reckons one side is’slightly favourites’ for the Scottish Premiership title

Celtic recognize that they are in a hostilities for the Scottish Premiership title that ought to go to the wire below Brendan Rodgers.

With 9 games of the league campaign remaining, the Bhoys sit down two factors at the back of Rangers in the standings, though there is room for masses to exchange between now and May.

Last weekend, Celtic misplaced 2-0 to Heart of Midlothian at Tynecastle in a fixture fraught with VAR-centric incidents, developing a storm that is not likely to subside in the instant future.

Hyunjun Yang’s dismissal and Tomoki Iwata’s handball have grow to be the two foremost speaking points from the affair; nevertheless, Rodgers’ men spurned the risk to capitalise on Rangers’ defeat to Motherwell the preceding day.

The Irishman vowed to keep on warfare for silverware in his post-match press conference and seemed to be in a bullish temper regardless of his side’s defeat in the capital.

He stated: “It’s still very much in our hands. We’ve got 12 video games to go. Nine league games and we want to be in the cup final on the 25th of May. We will combat for every competition we will be in.”

This Sunday, Celtic face Livingston in the quarter-final of the Scottish Cup, supplying an probability to make inroads closer to a manageable first appearance at Hampden this season.

Former Celtic man Alan Stubbs names his title favourites

At this stage of the season, pundits and ex-players are rapid to put forward their opinions on who will be crowned champions when all is stated and done, and Alan Stubbs is no one of a kind in that respect.

The former Celtic man believes that the dynamic between his historical membership and Rangers is the closest it has been for a lengthy time; however, he has backed Rodgers to lead the Bhoys to a 1/3 successive league title.

Stubbs mentioned [cited via BBC Sport]: “It’s on a knife edge. I still do think Celtic are moderate favourites just due to the fact they’ve been there, considered it and done it. This is pretty new, and I suppose this is as shut as what Rangers have been for a long time. It’s going to be interesting to see how they deal with that pressure.

“This title is not going to be gained till the very end, I don’t think. I assume it’s going to go till the remaining couple of games. We comprehend Celtic can see it thru because they’ve achieved it, but can this Rangers group see it through?”

Celtic have 9 cup finals remaining in the Scottish Premiership

There haven’t been many legit title races in the Scottish top-flight over latest years, even though Celtic will be keen to focus on their very own endeavours amid noise emanating from elsewhere.

Twists and turns are sure to appear in the remaining nine league matches; however, ensuring points are on the board is the solely way to display we have the warfare spirit critical to become champions.

Every single recreation is going to be like a cup final for every person related with the club, who will be desperate to see Rodgers be triumphant in his second spell north of the border.

Journalist reveals just what Norwich City thinks about Adam Idah’s impact at Celtic

Adam Idah has been a very correct signing for Celtic in the January window.

Yes, I recognize he missed a penalty against Hearts yesterday afternoon however overall, his five dreams have proved crucial in retaining Celtic in this title race seeing that his arrival.

The Republic of Ireland striker‘s arrival wasn’t met with an ordinary feeling of positivity due to his repute at Norwich, however, he has won a vicinity in the Celtic fans’ hearts and he may want to still play a massive position in holding the Scottish Premiership title.

And journalist, Michael Gannon, has shared how his father or mother club, Norwich City, are feeling about the impact Idah has made at Celtic.

Norwich City ‘surprised’ at Idah’s Celtic impact

The 22-year-old striker had observed himself 0.33 choice at the Championship membership so getting out on mortgage seemed like a good go for him.

But Celtic isn’t simply your general daily club. There are massive expectations put on players from the minute they signal and Idah has, so far, finished well to live up to them. And journalist, Michael Gannon, has shared how it has surprised Norwich.

Gannon stated [Record Celtic], “I suppose Idah has grabbed his chance. Big time. He’s amazed everybody. I suggest human beings you speak to down at Norwich are additionally surprised that he began so well.

“So he’s given Celtic a specific dynamic and he has changed the mood round the place.”

Idah does look virtually confident in the front of goal and notwithstanding the penalty miss yesterday, he has shown extraordinary bravery to put himself up for such a high-pressure scenario at his new club.

Hopefully, the penalty leave out won’t do a good deal to damage his self belief and he continues to locate the back of the net.

With just nine games left in the league, Celtic are going to need Idah firing on all cylinders to ensure another result like that at Tynecastle doesn’t occur again.

‘Dangerous’: Pundit believes Celtic now have a star who is just like Giorgos Giakoumakis

Celtic’s pursuit to discover a striker to compete and furnish backup for Kyogo Furuhashi took a odd turn in the eyes of many fans in January.

The Hoops guide were expecting Brendan Rodgers to add a pleasant participant to his ranks to help bolster the title run-in but when the club introduced the signing of Adam Idah, it clearly pressured the supporters.

Despite being a Republic of Ireland international, Idah was once regarded as Norwich City’s third-choice striker and with Celtic having the money to purchase a striker outright, the pass just didn’t make sense.

So it is little wonder that the transfer, no longer the player, used to be being criticised through the supporters. But appear at Idah now. The 23-year-old striker is impressing heavily and now he has been in contrast to former Celtic striker Giorgos Giakoumakis by Andy Walker.

Walker stated [The Go Radio Football Show], “That header that he received a Fir Park clearly used to be out of the top drawer. I think it’s a large danger for him on a personal level. I mean, you for sure choose to do as nicely as you can.

“I understand that he’s up right here on loan and I don’t be aware of what the deal is if he excels here. Let’s say he rankings any other ten goals between now and the quit of the season, do Celtic go and get him?

“But even if they don’t for him to have made his mark, a without a doubt proper level, I think it indicates that he’s acquired a bit of temperament.

“Because we’re the same, no one had ever heard of him. We simply knew about his potential. And every Celtic supporter that I spoke to was truely amazed that didn’t Celtic go for a beginning eleven, prepared striker with experience.

“They’ve acquired the money to do it with a loan deal. But if he keeps scoring desires at that rate and looking so dangerous, specially with that headed goal, then that is some thing one of a kind that Celtic have not had seeing that Giakoumakis used to be here.”

Celtic have missed that big bodily striker that has been synonymous with the membership over the remaining two decades.

Players like Chris Sutton, John Hartson, Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink and Giorgos Samaras complimented strikers like Henrik Larsson, Scott MacDonald and Leigh Griffiths.

And if Idah can assist bring alongside Kyogo’s recreation whether it’s thru opposition for places or as a beginning duo, then I am all for it. Look how the Japanese striker thrived with Giakoumakis breathing down his neck

I’d be shocked if Brendan Rodgers is Celtic manager next season, and three reasons why: Hugh Keevin

The extent to which resentment lingers on was proven during the game at Motherwell ultimate weekend.

I would be amazed if Brendan Rodgers is nonetheless Celtic’s supervisor at the start of subsequent season, whether or not or no longer he wins the league title in May.

The baiting of Brendan made for an uncomfortable pay attention and watch over the past week. Resentment, rejection and retribution, the supervisor has had to face all of those poor reactions in the space of days. There need to have been moments in the course of the public fall-out from Rodgers’ verbal alternate with BBC reporter Jane Lewis on Sunday when he questioned what had come over him in June at his domestic in Spain.

That day when he abandoned his unique layout to take a year-long sabbatical and as a substitute accepted Dermot Desmond’s offer of a return to Celtic Park. Brendan’s press convention on Tuesday, when he explained himself after the post-match interview with Lewis at Fir Park, used to be strongly reminiscent of the first one he gave as returning Celtic manager in July. I wrote right here at the time that Rodgers appeared to be being interviewed below caution. Tuesday’s questioning earlier than the Dundee healthy was every other instance of interrogation dressed up as an interview.

The night before, BBC Scotland’s prime-time information broadcast The Nine unearthed a professor of linguistics to provide an academic’s opinion on someone announcing “good girl” to a female television journalist. The professor concluded that Rodgers’ words had been “ill thought out” and that words, when misused, had been “as horrific as violence”.

At that juncture, the case of Lewis versus Rodgers came in need of a judicial review. A verbal mis-step via the manager? No argument.

Violence? Why take the conversation in that course to the detriment of his character? Brendan has, of course, been the victim of battery through phrases from some of the Celtic support. He was referred to as “Judas” and a “rat” when he again to Celtic in the summer, the toxic verbiage used to condemn him for leaving for Leicester in 2019.

And the extent to which resentment lingers on was proven in the course of the sport at Motherwell closing weekend. The booing that accompanied his substitution of Tomoki Iwata offered evidence of the on-going disconnect between the manager and his in-house critics.

It was a vindictive response of the kind that provoked Rodgers to express his dismay at final Tuesday’s press gathering. That gathering, incidentally, used to be attended via a girl sports writer who had used her newspaper column that morning to say Rodgers had “belittled” Lewis with his “good girl” remark. Fair enough. That’s her opinion.

But she was at Lennoxtown to see if she could prolong the story into every other day with the aid of questioning the manager. What was to be won from doing that, other than fanning the controversy? Likewise, the BBC sent Lewis to Celtic’s rout of Dundee on Wednesday night. The pair should have been given a diplomatic destroy from every different after the occasions of four days earlier.

Brendan is the highest-paid manager in Scottish football history, of course, and cash can also soften the blow of having to take abuse at every turn. But the activities of last week, from the Celtic help to the wider media and even the employed gun from a university background, should have given Rodgers reason for reflection.

You don’t remain where you’re now not wanted and all that. We shall wait and see however it will be a source of light remedy for the boss today to immerse himself in some precise old- common paranoia. Conspiracy is always a remedy for fans. It takes their minds off the real world.

Mohamed Diomande of Rangers celebrates with Cyriel Dessers (Image: Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Today they can dive into the historical baloney about Hearts lying down to Rangers while making an attempt their damndest against green-and-white hoops. This stuff is of no final result to Rodgers. His biggest assignment is to confront the concept that Celtic are clinging on to the title race through their fingertips.

Criticising Celtic for their performances, or an unfathomable signing policy, is perfectly legitimate. Always business, in no way personal.

But personality assassination and abuse from his very own fans, and others from outwith the football-related media, is every other matter. Rodgers can mull that over whilst addressing if his team have what it takes to overtake Rangers in the league.

What takes place at Tynecastle will assist answer that question. The incorrect answer will assuredly bring retribution in keeping with the present day uneasy climate.

Captain Callum McGregor’s injury inspires “new experience,” but Celtics manager Brendan Rodgers shields him from himself

The skipper is a predominant doubt for the crucial showdown with Hearts at Tynecastle.

Brendan Rodgers is adamant he won’t take risks with Celtic skipper Callum McGregor.

The Parkhead boss is convinced he has the leaders to step up if his captain is ruled out of tomorrow’s showdown against Hearts. McGregor is a large doubt for the crunch clash at Tynecastle. Rodgers confirmed his captain is feeling Achilles and calf problems having been taken off at half-time in the 7-1 midweek win over Dundee. The supervisor published that McGregor informed him in conversations he can experience niggles at this time of a season due to his brilliant appearance report and the quantity of video games he plays.

Celtic’s Callum McGregor looks dejected

But with his on-pitch leader so precious and a string of video games just as huge as the crunch at Tynecastle looming, Rodgers is not organized to take gambles. McGregor’s nature potential that he will do the whole lot to be prepared for the key title hostilities in Gorgie. However, when asked if it may additionally be a case of protecting him and nearly saving him from himself, the Celtic boss said: “Well that’s exactly it, aye.

“With gamers like that in my experience, the guys who are usually handy and constantly playing, it’s such a new ride for them to be injured. It is one of these the place all players, in particular top players, they favor to play each game. So, you have to be mindful of it and you have to be conscious of the risk.

“We will sincerely take that into consideration due to the fact we are coming into into a certainly vital period. They are all large games. I said it at Motherwell, I stated it at some point of the week and I say it now for Hearts, they are all massive games.

“You are continually weighing up the risk. You can go into a cup ultimate and if there is nothing after that for a whilst then of route the hazard might be greater but you can take that risk. But with nonetheless quite a bit of the season to go and vital games, we simply have to weigh that up.”

Although dropping McGregor for Tynecastle would be an apparent and most important blow to the champions, Rodgers is adamant that he has other influential stars to help cover the Scotland star’s leadership. He said: “Yeah, the likes of Cameron [Carter-Vickers] and Ali Johnston now getting lower back up to speed and sturdy and fit, Greg Taylor is a gorgeous speaker as well.

“So that leadership from inside from guys like huge Joe Hart, these guys will step up. Someone of Callum’s exceptional and leadership qualities will constantly be a leave out if he isn’t playing. But that then is the duty of each person then to take that on board.”

McGregor’s capability as properly as his have an effect on on the team would additionally leave a gaping gap but again, Rodgers says it can open a door for any individual else to step through. He added: “Yeah, it’s an probability for any one else to come in.

“I’d love to get to the factor this season where all these players had been reachable and geared up to play together, and experience seeing them play together. But like I say, if it is one the place he isn’t on hand then the chance is there for any person else. We’ve viewed guys like Liam Scales taking opportunities this season and it’s what you want in a exact squad.”

Brendan Rodgers says Celtic players will learn from this even if they don’t win the title

Rodgers reckons Rangers warfare will stand his stars in proper stead whether they are the closing one standing or not.

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers believes his gamers will only get higher from the journey of going toe-to-toe with Rangers – even if they give up up on the losing side.

Rodgers is locked into a two way battle for this season’s title having been knocked off the top of the table by his opponents from Ibrox as the two facets hurtle toward the closing stretch. The champions face a go to from Dundee in Glasgow tonight while Philippe Clement takes his team to face disruptors Kilmarnock at Rugby Park, searching to shield a two factor lead. With simply eleven video games left to play Rodgers believes the destiny of the championship is probable to go down to the wire. But he insists the drama and stress of going via the run-in will assist accelerate Celtic’s progression in the longer term.

Asked if he believes his batch of new arrivals are mentally sturdy adequate for the race to the line he said: “Well, something takes place they’ve acquired to achieve that. You can inform players and then you can show them however the greatest learning comes from the journey itself. That’s when you get the full development.

“I suppose this team now, being in right here at this phase of the season, will research from the experience. They are going thru that.

“So whatever occurs this year, they are going to be better for having lived the ride because nothing can prepare you for the expectations around a club like Celtic. When you come in here, with the greatest notions to learn and develop, however it is no longer till you trip that expectation to function and win.

“Big Adam Idah has stated it himself – about the depth of having to win each game. He’s gained 9 games and drawn two and he’s nevertheless wondering what the query is! So you have to journey it. And when you ride it then you develop further.”

Rodgers admitted that Celtic’s structure has been much less than convincing on account that the begin of the marketing campaign and that his gamers struggled to get up to velocity once more at the weekend when they came from behind to finally overcome Motherwell in damage time.

Asked if this patchy structure is a outcome of the state of affairs at the top of the desk he responded: “I’m now not sure. I don’t think so. I’ve been up right here earlier than when we’ve long past to Ibrox knowing if we lost the game we had been maybe three points or six points behind. But we nevertheless performed with freedom, first-rate and fight.

“But we can’t enable ourselves to overthink it. I suppose that’s what’s key. I suppose we simply have to play our recreation and that’s the steady messaging.

“The gamers are truely giving their all. They would possibly not have been at their best but they’re giving their best. There’s absolutely no doubt about that.

Celtic’s Adam Idah celebrates (Image: SNS Group)

“And, like I say, we have some truly vital gamers working their way lower back who can genuinely make the difference for us over these subsequent few weeks. Hopefully you see the stage develop again.”

And Rodgers believes the return to full fitness of protective stalwart Cameron Carter-Vickers could flip out to be a key component going into the remaining stretch. He said: “He’s been very vital for this team. He simply knows soccer – he is aware of the game.

“I usually say the centre back function is arguably the one role in the pitch where you have two gamers however it is one position. When you see what he does when he comes in, he stabilises Liam Scales or whoever he’s been playing with.

“He spent two years without a doubt taking part in with Starfelt and they had a notable connection, wonderful speed. Very little received in behind them.

“If you’re no longer having to run in in the back of so plenty then it skill you’re on the attack more. But, too frequently this season, he hasn’t been there, so teams have possibly been getting up the facets a little bit more.

“Having him back actually solidifies that and gives self assurance to the team. It’s virtually necessary for us to maintain him fit.”

Rangers acrobatics by Sutton cause laughter, but the Celtic hero refuses to respond to the question about the title

Sutton used to be underneath the kosh to admit he fancies Rangers for the title – however he just would not do it, to Robbie Savage’s dismay.

Chris Sutton had Robbie Savage in stitches live on radio – because he would not tell Rangers fans what they wanted to hear.

The Celtic hero will be on Sky Sports punditry duty on Sunday as Celtic look to cut the hole lower back down to two points after Gers hit Hearts for 5 on Saturday. At one factor this season it had appeared as if the title would be heading again to Parkhead, however it’s now the Ibrox aspect who are hot favourites with fans and punters after a excellent revival below Philippe Clement.

With the Glasgow still to face twice, though, each nonetheless maintain it inside their very own hands. That’s actually the noise coming out of Celtic where Brendan Rodgers is refusing to panic no matter the dramatic overhaul because Michael Beale used to be disregarded lower back in October. And it was once a similar vibe from Sutton who was once pressed on who he thinks will win the title.

He joined Savage on their BBC Radio five Live show on Saturday night and his co-host tried desperately to get him to admit he fancies Rangers to win the title. But Sutton had him in stitches with the gymnastics he pulled off to keep away from answering the query directly.

The former Parkhead striker did admit it was once ‘Rangers’ to lose’ and Savage notion he had him pinned when he said “it appears like it is over…” however Sutton then shortly clarified his point by means of adding “…or at least Rangers followers surely assume so.”

Savage asked the query a couple of times, no longer blissful with Sutton’s responses, but he solely went as far as to say: “At this moment in time, they’re favourites.” And a laughing Savage then advised him: “What a pathetic character (you are).”

His mouth is bigger than his club – Minnow’s manager criticizes Celtic

Celtic have been scalded by a footballing counterpart (cough)for being unwilling to be involved in an Atlantic League within European football. The assaults got here from the mouthy Shelbourne FC’s Vice-Chairman, Andrew Doyle, who has insisted that Celtic extra usually are content material in being top of the pile in Scotland and also-rans in European competition.

This is nothing new of course, as there have been rumblings for many years about Celtic leaving Scottish soccer to be a part of the English Premier League or some improvised European league involving groups of a similar stature who are starved of greater revenues because they play in uncompetitive home football. It has in no way come to fruition at any stage and it looks like it in no way will in any case.

With the disparity between the top five leagues and the rest developing at a fast charge with every passing year, the chasm that exists is on exhibit almost each yr in the UEFA Champions League group stages, which is why they determined to change the format from crew tiers to a league model. Not that this will significantly advantage groups such as Celtic however, as it’s merely to keep the giants of European football content that while longer and stall the onwards push for a European Super League.

Doyle published it kind of already is that way presently, with teams from smaller nations simply unable to compete with Manchester City, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich on a everyday basis. The Shelbourne executive has mentioned the solely way to bridge the gap would be an progressive thought such as a cross-border league with teams from one of a kind international locations competing.

When requested whether or not Celtic should be involved in those plans, he stated: “Yes it could, of course, but Celtic would have to desire to be aggressive in Europe and my bet is they’re perfectly comfortable being at the pinnacle of a depreciating SPFL invariably and then being perennially uncompetitive in the Champions League.

“It’s a gravy educate and they’re on it. The new UEFA Champions League layout is even higher for them – extra European games equals even more European money for them. So lengthy as the contemporary device remains and Scotland’s place in the UEFA access listing stays incredibly high, Celtic are most unlikely to go for it. I think they’ll be very joyful to continue winning the Premiership greater years than not, where they’ll gain automatic access to the round of 32 and then get hockeyed there, but nonetheless get all that European cash,” he said to Scottish Daily Mail.

“That, of course, ensures that Scottish football remains hopelessly uncompetitive, because no one can match Celtic’s cash. Our structure would have exceeded all sensible UEFA standards due to the fact it benefited all stakeholders, now not simply Celtic and (the)Rangers, in Scotland’s case. The debate shouldn’t be whether there’s a fantastic league or no notable league.

“It’s whether or not UEFA or some other birthday celebration operates a revised model of the existing exceptional league, with extra competition and larger gain to all. The Champions League is already UEFA’s very personal great league. The champions of some countries, Ireland, for instance have never even performed in the damn thing, ever. So, of course, the device is broken. Completely broken.”

Paul Gillespie

“He Doesn’t Rate Them” – Pundit Says Celtic Duo Are Not Rodgers Signings

In a recent dissection of Celtic’s poor method in the switch market, the conversation has moved to how man players in the door over the past eight months have been simply players Rodgers wanted.

The club’s strategy to player acquisitions and departures has been under the microscope, specifically following the surprising retention of Gustaf Lagerbielke, regardless of anticipation of his exit. Lagerbielke, notably, has yet to make an look in the squad since his cross was known as off, an incidence that has no longer long past overlooked among the Celtic support.

In January, Rodgers and Celtic allowed players, including Marco Tilio, who has due to the fact that joined Melbourne FC on a mortgage spell, Hyeokkyu Kwon, who made the switch to St Mirren in Paisley, to hyperlink up with Stephen Robinson’s side, and the aforementioned Lagerbielke had one foot out the door, three men who only signed in the summer.

11th February 2024; St Mirren Park, Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland, Scottish Cup Football, St Mirren versus Celtic; Hyeokkyu Kwon of St Mirren on loan from Celtic takes a seat in the stand

Shock jock Ewan Cameron weighed in on the depend throughout his appearance on the Big Scottish Football Podcast.

Cameron posited that Rodgers has had little to no influence on who has come in the door to this point, and whilst Cameron is anybody we don’t normally agree with, the statistics seem to talk for themselves.

7th February 2024; Easter Road, Edinburgh, Scotland: Scottish Premiership Football, Hibernian versus Celtic; Daizen Maeda of Celtic and Maik Nawrocki of Celtic arrive for the match

Cameron’s analysis suggests a disconnect between Rodgers and acquisitions, citing their scant taking part in time as evidence, speakme about Lagerbielke and Nawrocki he said: “They’re really no longer Brendan Rodgers’ signings… He doesn’t fee them,” Cameron stated, hinting at a possible divergence in approach between Rodgers and the scouting department, with the latter possibly having more impact over these decisions.

Right now, due to the fact of injury, we have two players in the coronary heart of defence Stephen Welsh and Liam Scales who couldn’t get a sport over the previous two seasons while Celtic hoovered up silverware. Rodgers starting each or even one of them over both Nawrocki or Lagerbielke says a lot.

‘Needs to be better’: Paul Hartley predicts Brendan Rodgers’ chances of winning the championship at Celtic

Celtic are in a title race that may want to go to the wire, and Brendan Rodgers will need to navigate some complicated challenges to ensure his aspect are topped champions.

As matters stand, the Bhoys are taking part in catch-up following a sequence of activities closing weekend that led Rangers to trap top spot in the Scottish Premiership ahead of the modern-day round of fixtures.

Rodgers’ side dropped the ball in opposition to Kilmarnock at home, surrendering two factors in a feeble manner courtesy of David Watson’s header at the death.

Nevertheless, the show have to go on for Celtic, who tour to face Motherwell this Sunday at Fir Park in a must-win game, factoring in the context of the title race.

Willie Collum has been appointed referee for the clash, which will be live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football from 12 pm sharp.

Heading into proceedings, the Hoops may also be as many as 5 points at the back of if situations go with the flow in a positive route elsewhere. However, there is no margin for error, regardless of occurrences outdoor our control.

Paul Hartley has his say on Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers

Taking a trip down memory lane, former Celtic midfielder Paul Hartley found himself in a similar quandary to his historic club’s contemporary occasions inside his two profitable title-winning campaigns at Parkhead.

The 47-year-old has had his say on whether the Bhoys can claw lower back the two-point deficit they need to overcome under Rodgers.

Speaking to The Scottish Sun, Hartley believes that Irishman is the ‘ideal man to settle things down’ over the coming weeks, comparing the scenario to his own experiences beneath Gordon Strachan.

He stated: “Brendan won’t panic. He is far too correct a manager. He was once very truthful after the Kilmarnock game last Saturday and admitted Celtic didn’t put in the overall performance he desired or expected.

“But he has properly gamers and he is the ideal man to settle matters down again. Brendan has won so plenty in his career, and he will stay calm and clear. Gordon (Strachan) used to be the equal in 2008 — he made things genuinely simple

“We knew it used to be a case of struggle and fighting to get the wins. Myself and Barry Robson performed together in midfield towards Motherwell and it worked well. We gained that game 4-1 and it used to be a real turning point.

“We had to play Rangers twice soon after,  and we gained each of them. Suddenly, we had the momentum in the title race, and we never seemed back. Brendan will be aware of that Celtic will need to be better shifting forward, but there is a long way to go this season.”

Celtic need to stay calm in the face of growing pressure

Realistically, there is usually an aspect of stress at Celtic due to the exceedingly high requirements held at Parkhead.

Nevertheless, prevailing is all that matters proper now, and three points on Sunday ought to assist breed some self assurance to take into a run of climactic fixtures.

Five league matches continue to be before the Bhoys journey to face Rangers at Ibrox on April 7th, making it imperative that Rodgers’ guys don’t drop any extra useless points.

Should they build some momentum in the next weeks, there may also nevertheless be a likelihood they can warranty the future of the Scottish Premiership title will be in their very own hands.

Chris Sutton ends Happy Clapper live on radio as he witnesses the Celtic “fear factor” vanish before his eyes

Sutton believes Rodgers has to raise the can for horrific outcomes and wasn’t having the defence that they had been pinnacle of the league until today.

Chris Sutton put the blame for Celtic’s descent closer to crisis at Brendan Rodgers’ feet – and reckons everyone who doesn’t recognize where fans are coming from absolutely does not get the Scottish game.

The Parkhead membership drew with Kilmarnock yesterday and allowed Rangers the risk to go clear on their personal at the top of the Premiership today. Their rivals obliged, beating St Johnstone 3-0 and with Celtic having as soon as regarded so in manage of the title race, it’s now Gers who are favourites to go on and carry it in May.

Discontent has been brewing in Glasgow’s east give up for a while with followers feeling the club have sat still. Much of the frustration until now has been directed at the board for failing to invest but now there is a real feeling Rodgers is dramatically underperforming with a squad that have to be doing better.

Sutton was requested for his ideas on the count number on BBC Radio five Live and he sympathised with fans getting on Rodgers’ back. He said: “There’s a lot of unhappiness among the fanbase about Celtic now not spending a massive quantity of money, however my point is Brendan Rodgers should be doing better domestically than he is at this moment in time with the gamers he has available.”

That was when host Robbie Savage cut in, pointing out they have been pinnacle all season until Rangers took over on Sunday. But Sutton wasn’t having that as he blasted back: “They’ve been papering over the cracks with their performances. You do not pretty apprehend Scottish football, 2nd is last. You can not be behind in Glasgow. There are Celtic followers out there now who assume they can’t perhaps win the league. I do not always agree with that due to the fact there’s a lengthy way to go…”

This was where fan Paul was once added into the conversation and he agreed with Sutton. He did however add that they have no threat of winning the title enjoying like they did towards Killie – and raised the point that Rodgers should be able to do extra with the present day crop of players, many of whom have regressed under his tutelage.

Sutton replied: “This season, Celtic have dropped so many points domestically. What would worry me about yesterday is that Kilmarnock had greater pictures than Celtic in their very own back yard. There’s no longer a worry issue any more when groups home teams play Celtic. They don’t worry them, they fancy their chances.

“People can smartphone in and tell me if I’m wrong, however I don’t take into account the closing time that happened. You look at durations this season, away to Aberdeen, away to Hibs, Kilmarnock 2d half. Teams are enjoying Celtic off the park. That is the fear and that, domestically, falls on the manager.”

Joe Hart of Celtics is candid and believes there will be “difficult” questions after Kilmarnock’s draw

Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart used to be one of the few gamers to get away with skip marks in the Bhoys’ 1-1 draw at home to Kilmarnock yesterday.

The 36-year-old earned a in shape rating of 7.9/10 for his exploits, making five saves and completing 30 of his 35 attempted passes on what turned out to be a dreary day at Parkhead [Sofascore].

At present, the four-time Golden Glove winner has an uncertain future in Glasgow, given that his contract expires at the stop of the campaign.

Nevertheless, Hart appears decided to give the whole thing to declare silverware in what may want to be his remaining season at Celtic, leading via example seeing that the turn of the year.

His commitment also can’t be questioned. Back in January, Brendan Rodgers revealed that the skilled wide variety one has been living north of the border without his family during his stay at the club.

Rodgers shed some mild on his future closing month, stating: “We haven’t spoken about it (what occurs next). At that age, I think he’s simply glad to be playing. Joe’s family is down south so he’s proven brilliant commitment to be up here.”

Granted, there are likely higher goalkeepers on hand in the world of football than Hart and sentiment shouldn’t be reserved when due diligence takes place surrounding his attainable successor.

However, his mind-set is 2nd to none, and he will go down as a fantastic servant when he passes via the Parkhead doorways for the last time.

Joe Hart makes frank admission as Celtic draw with Kilmarnock

In the aftermath of the Bhoys’ disappointing stalemate with Kilmarnock, Hart didn’t mince his phrases when analysing his side’s performance.

Giving some trustworthy answers, the Shrewsbury-born man admitted Celtic didn’t deserve three points and indicated some ‘difficult questions’ would be asked amongst the crew in days to follow.

Hart cited [Celtic FC YouTube]: “We almost managed to walk away with three points in a sport where we didn’t play specifically well, however I assume conceding the late intention solely highlights it wasn’t a notable overall performance and we probable didn’t deserve the win.”

He then added: “We had been hoping to get over the line as an alternative than dictating the game; the tempo, it wasn’t there in the final 20 minutes, which is the commercial enterprise end of the match where we assume to dominate, however we didn’t today, and Kilmarnock stayed in it and received the result.”

When requested about how the Celtic squad will look to recover from the result, Hart finished with the aid of saying: “You discuss about it, you highlight it, you ask people questions, some challenging questions and see what answers people are going to give, who’s willing to be there in the large moments, who wants it?

“That’s for all of us to seem to be at ourselves in the mirror. There’s a long way to go; there’s lots we can nevertheless gain this season, and with challenging work and dedication and every single one of us pulling in the same direction, we nevertheless consider we can do it.”

Joe Hart’s remarks surrounding Celtic stand up to scrutiny

Anyone who took in the game the day gone by could’ve identified that Celtic were searching to grasp in towards Kilmarnock as an alternative than having an urgency to put the recreation to bed, which is regarding in itself.

Not for the first time this season, the Bhoys went into their shell and have been punished by means of a tender purpose late on after failing to do the fundamentals when it mattered.

This isn’t a signal of a crew that is outfitted to go all the way in the title race, even though we will need to wait and see if Rodgers can get a higher tune out of the players over the coming weeks.

Amidst a “chorus of boos,” a BBC Pundit described one Celtic player as “terrific.”