Celtic are being linked with the signing of Charles Pickel as the Scottish Champions ramp up their preparations for next season. With six games remaining of this season and two trophies to play for, the focus is fully on bringing the title and Scottish Cup back to Celtic Park.

However, behind the scenes, the club will be preparing for the 2024/25 season by scouting, identifying and assessing potential transfer targets. One name that has cropped up is Cremonese defensive midfielder Pickel.

The 26-year-old is a powerful defensive midfielder that can also fill in at RB or play further forward. His profile certainly fits the manager’s wish to get pace and power into the squad ahead of the new season.

Notwithstanding the fact that it is promising that Celtic are already underway in their preparations for next season, the club should be considering whether Bosun Lawal can play a part in the first team next season.

The Irish U21 star was a regular starter in the Celtic B Team at centre back; however, after moving to Fleetwood Town in EFL League One, the 20-year-old moved into the midfield.

Despite regular changes in the management at Fleetwood with Scott Brown, Lee Johnson and Charlie Adam all having stints in the ill-fated season, Lawal was a consistent performer.

In all competitions, Lawal made 46 appearances, scoring six times and assisting twice, which drew praise from his managers for his composure in the centre of the park.

Brendan Rodgers will likely go want to see the player back at Lennoxtown as he considers whether to loan him out again or integrate him into his first team. The Celtic manager has said that he wants to have a ready supply of talent coming through the ranks of the academy to supplement and star in the first team.

Dundee motivation clear against Celtic insists Tony Docherty as Dens boss praises city rival Jim Goodwin ahead of derby return next season

The Dark Blues kick off their post-split fixtures with a home clash against the Hoops on Sunday.

Dundee head into Sunday’s clash with Celtic with confidence says manager Tony Docherty.

That’s after a run of just one defeat in six clinched a top-half finish and raised the prospect of European football next season.

To do achieve that they will have to overhaul the two-point lead held by St Mirren in fifth place.

Both sides face one half of the Old Firm this Sunday – the Buddies host Rangers before the Dee are at home to Celtic.

And Dens boss Tony Docherty insists his side go into the weekend contest in high spirits.

“Sunday will be difficult as Celtic are going for a title as we all know, but we have huge motivation as well,” the Dundee boss said.

“I am looking forward to a really exciting game and we will be planning accordingly.

“Celtic were pushed all the way by Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup but they showed the character and mindset to get the job done. That is the mark of a good team.

“We all know the job Brendan Rodgers has done with Celtic.

“He is a top manager and we will have to be at our best but we also go in confident after making the top six and getting a good result against Rangers last time out.”

Derbies

In the here and now, there is no looking further than the next game for Docherty and his team.

However, it’s difficult to ignore the celebrations across the road at Dundee United as they all-but secured the Championship title.

And that means the return of top-flight derby football in the city next season, something Docherty is looking forward to.

“I would like to put it on record my congratulations for Jim [Goodwin] and his team. Full credit to Dundee United,” Docherty said.

“I know they still have to officially seal it but it is extremely unlikely they won’t.

“I know what it takes because I was assistant manager to Derek [McInnes] at Kilmarnock.

“The Championship is not easy to get out of and to do it at first time is a fantastic achievement.

“Huge credit to Dundee United and Jim Goodwin. He has done a good job there and I like him.

“I am looking forward to the Dundee derby being back in the top-flight next season.

“I live in the area and I know how important the derbies are.

“It means a lot to the city and it will be something else to look forward to next season.”

I won title as Celtic coach and gave my players cold shoulder because it works when my wife does it to me

Shelbourne maintained their three-point lead at the top of the League of Ireland Premier Division – and Damien Duff shared his tactics.

Shelbourne manager and ex Celtic coach Damien Duff revealed he stopped speaking to his players to get a reaction – because it works when his WIFE does it to him!

And he didn’t hold back in his criticism of player Shane Farrell after he was sent off for receiving two yellow cards within ten minutes during a match against Shamrock Rovers. Despite the setback, Shels managed to maintain their three-point lead at the top of the League of Ireland Premier Division with a 0-0 draw. However, Duff felt that Farrell’s dismissal made things unnecessarily difficult.

Reflecting on his words to his players after consecutive losses to Bohemians and Galway before Monday’s match, Duff said: “A bit of tough love, harsh words earlier on in the week, later on in the week. I probably wasn’t even speaking to them, they weren’t speaking to me. It’s probably what my wife does to me when I’m in trouble and she gets a better husband at the end of it so honestly that’s all I’ve ever given them and like I said they bounced back but as I’ve just told them there, you shouldn’t always wait for a Dublin derby to play on the edge and with a real intensity, it has to be every week.”

And seaking to Virgin Media post-match, Republic of Ireland legend Duff – who worked under both Brendan Rodgers and Neil Lennon at Parkhead – said of the dismissal: “He deserved to go off, I don’t think he played with intensity, I don’t think he has played with intensity in a long, long time.”

He went on to suggest that Farrell’s off-pitch lifestyle had impacted his performance, saying: “How you live your life off the pitch ends up biting you back on the pitch, it was poor from him as he’s cost his teammates, for 20-25 minutes we looked fit and strong, bring on Boydy [Sean Boyd], go two up top and we look like we might nick the win, it was all about salvaging a draw after that.”

Despite the disappointment, Duff remained optimistic about the team’s prospects, stating: “With 20 minutes to go when you go down to 10 men, you take the point, we back ourselves to beat anyone in this country, home or away, after three weeks of poor enough performances I think it’s safe to say we have our team back and we are looking forward to Friday.

“People have been looking at the last three weeks and going, ooh, Jesus. It’s a top of the table clash against the best team in the country that the league has seen for a long, long time, there hasn’t been a top of the table clash at Tolka Park in 18 years, so it was amazing from the guys but they have to bring it on Friday.”

Title Fever: Nakamura And The Freeway To Success

SHUNSUKE NAKAMURA fired Celtic to their forty-first title success EXACTLY 17 years ago today.

The stylish Japanese playmaker was a virtual unknown when Gordon Strachan paid £2.5million to prise him from Serie A outfit Reggina.

However, the delighted Hoops followers quickly realised the club had invested in a class act in the multi-skilled midfielder whose deadball kicks struck terror into the opposition. And that was highlighted with the title winner against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on April 22 2007.

Author Alex Gordon investigates Strachan’s second season in charge at Parkhead in depth in his fifteenth Celtic book, ‘50 Flags Plus One‘. The tribute publication covers every one of the team’s untainted fifty-one championships following the first in 1893.

Alex, a former sports editor at the top-selling Sunday Mail, writes with insider knowledge on another monumental campaign in the history of Celtic.

In another CQN EXCLUSIVE, here is an edited chapter from the book. Enjoy!

ON the Sunday afternoon of April 22 2007, sunshine smothered every corner of Ayrshire. Celtic had been presented with the perfect setting to claim their forty-first championship.

Gordon Strachan’s side were playing Kilmarnock at Rugby Park and the encounter was tied at one goal apiece as the action drifted deep into stoppage time. Referee Craig Thomson checked his wristwatch yet again.

Shunsuke Nakamura received a pass outside the box about twenty-five yards on the right. Reckless defender Gary Wales clumsily clattered into the back of the Japanese sorcerer and sent him spilling to the turf.

The match official awarded the mandatory free-kick, but surely the angles defied even Nakamura’s ability. Standing outside his dug-out on the opposite touchline, Gordon Strachan whispered to himself: “Naw, he can’t do it again, can he?”

Nakamura placed the ball where Thomson had indicated, carefully took stock of the situation and weighed up the possibilities. Without doubt, this would be Celtic’s last opportunity to win the game and wrap up the title. He stepped forward and whipped in a left-foot set-piece that totally flummoxed Alan Combe. Somehow the Celt had threaded the ball through the wall and propelled it towards the bottom right-hand corner of the motionless goalkeeper’s net.

Not quite as inscrutable as the worldwide perception of his compatriots, Nakamura burst into tears and, in an uncharacteristically wild celebration, pulled his shirt over his head and raced towards the joyous fans. Naturally, he earned a booking for being so happy.

Once he had composed himself, he admitted: “I have never behaved like that before after scoring a goal, but it meant a lot to me.”

A breathless Strachan grinned: “I thought we were in for another long week, but but I am lucky to have a genius on board. I thought it was asking too much of him. But he did it once more.

“It was fitting he should score the goal that won the title. He has played more minutes for us than anyone else this season and covered more ground than any other player.

“He is the most technically-gifted player I have ever been involved with in the game. I played alongside the likes of Bryan Robson and Kenny Dalglish, who were fabulous footballers, but for a sublime touch, Naka is the best.”

The gaffer, with a gleam in his eye, added: “The best team won the league. There is a difference between the best individuals and the best team. My players just don’t like getting beat. And we have a player such as Neil Lennon who sets the standard.”

The flag had been won in one of the most dramatic, thrilling and breathtaking finales. It was all-square after Colin Nish had cancelled Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink’s twenty-fourth minute opener. The robust Dutchman had been one of Strachan’s acquisitions during another busy summer break following his eventful maiden campaign.

Clearly, he had no intention of resting on his laurels following his commendable efforts in scheming the club’s way towards a Championship and League Cup double. The coach was enthusiastically determined to put his stamp on the team.

The spectre of Martin O’Neill had to be exorcised to rid the Celtic manager of constant comparisons with the charismatic Irishman.

Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic prophecy is coming into view and could be his greatest achievement

The Hoops boss had a message to the doubters when he returned to the club last June and he could prove true to his word

‘For those who are with me and have always been with me, let’s enjoy the journey. For those who I need to convince, I’ll see you here in May…’

Those were bold words from Brendan Rodgers when he stood outside Celtic Park last June in front of a few hundred diehards. Rangers fans used them to bash him a fair bit up until the last few weeks. But Hoops supporters are now convinced the Rodgers Prophecy is going to come to pass. Perhaps Parkhead punters should cool their jets just a tad for now. This is only April. The league is not done and dusted yet, even if if is starting to look like the wheels have come off at Rangers, along with engine blowing a gasket. Rodgers will know that as well.

And he’ll also know if he does come good on his word and ended up outside the stadium with shiny pots in each hand, the achievement will arguably be up there as his greatest achievement at Celtic. That might sound sacrilegious to some fans, who – understandably – hold up the Invincible Treble as one of the all-time great seasons.

But this year has been a different kind of challenge. In fact, it’s been a different set of challenges. Rodgers has had to deal with more nonsense this year than he did in his entire first spell at the club. Back then the only bumps in the road involved a few sore European encounters and wondering what the heck Leigh Griffiths was up to any any given time. This year? Rodgers could write a few new chapters in the coaching manual with what he’s had to deal with.

Civil war with a section of the fans, actual war in the Middle East, key men going through the revolving door in the treatment room, the club’s recruitment department falling to bits, a minor, ridiculous sexism storm, and Rangers looking – for a while at least – like they’d got their act together under a proper manager.

All of these factors has given this season a whiff of the covid campaign, when Sod’s Law – which suggests anything that can go wrong, will – managed to sink Neil Lennon’s 10-in-a-Row bid. Yet now everything is starting to fall into place for Rodgers and Celtic. He said last week, this is the time in the year when his club comes alive.

The same can be said about him. There have been times when he’s looked scunnered with it all. He’s been frustrated with transfer business, exasperated with officials and VAR, even slightly grumpy with the media, who have asked awkward questions when first time around the toughest poser he had to field was what he was having for his tea that night.

Some of it has been justified. Celtic haven’t been firing on all cylinders all of this season and scrutiny comes with his gig. Some of it has been harsh, and even perhaps a bit personal.

Yet a lot more of it has come from his own support than the slightly more balanced analysis from the scribes and broadcasters. Rodgers has circled the wagons though and pulled out every trick in the manager’s handbook, while adding a few of his own.

There has been a siege mentality around the place and it might just be starting to pay off. Rodgers will entitled to tell everyone I told you so if his Prophecy rings true.

Some will still say he’s fortunate to be sitting in pole position and that’s it’s down to the major wobble across the city. It’s certainly helped. But so has the fact Rodgers and his squad have turned up the heat to force the nervous breakdown at Rangers.

When the Ibrox side hit top spot in February, it looked like the title was only going one way. When Celtic lost to Hearts the day after Rangers unexpectedly crashed at home to Motherwell, it seemed like a major chance gone to seize back the momentum.

Instead, Rodgers regrouped and put the foot down. The late goals at Hibs and Motherwell before then are starting to look absolutely colossal for Celts and hammer blows to Gers. The Light Blues have visibly wilted as the weeks have rolled on while the champions have grown in stature and belief.

While Philippe Clement has developed a 1000-yard stare in recent weeks, Rodgers have got tunnel vision. It’s got through to his players as well. When asked last week about the pressure of the business end, Adam Idah had the gaze of a man about to tuck into a tasty tornado steak.

Meanwhile their rival are making a meal of things and look like they can’t trust the next botty burp. Idah – who was so vital to those big Hibs and Motherwell wins, as well as the crucial draw at Ibrox – is a fairly quiet lad, he’s confident rather than arrogant, but there is a sense of enjoying the thrill of the fight. Unlike across the city.

But Rodgers and Celtic can’t get the chicken calculators out just yet. Some of the squad issues that have held them back at times this term are still there. And they have to assume they will still need to see out the remaining five games of the league campaign without defeat.

But the Rodgers Prophecy is very much coming in to view and if he pulls this off there will be far more than a few hundred fans outside Parkhead to greet him. There will be thousands – and no more doubters.

Lee Congerton’s Recent Peter Lawwell Comments are Spot On

Lee Congerton, the former head scout of Celtic, has opened up about the challenges he faced during his tenure with the Scottish club, particularly highlighting financial constraints and recruitment difficulties. Congerton, who was brought in by then-manager Brendan Rodgers, faced significant scrutiny from fans over several signings that did not meet expectations.

In a candid reflection on his stint at Celtic, Congerton did not shy away from discussing the financial limitations he worked under. “At Celtic, we had no money,” he stated, pointing to the stark contrast in resources when compared to clubs like PSG, known for their robust youth programmes.

Congerton also touched on his relationship with Peter Lawwell, the club’s chief executive at the time, who has since become the chairman. He described Lawwell as “a nice man” but also “an accountant,” implying a possible divergence in their approach to club finances and player acquisition.

The former scout shed light on some of the ambitious targets Celtic pursued under his and Rodgers’ direction. Notably, the club attempted to sign Moussa Diaby and Christopher Nkunku, both of whom have gone on to establish successful careers in the Premier League with Aston Villa and Chelsea, respectively. These revelations underscore the high calibre of talent Celtic aimed to attract, despite their financial limitations.

However, Congerton’s tenure wasn’t without its frustrations. He expressed dissatisfaction with certain recruitment decisions, which eventually led to his departure from the club. “There were several players I didn’t want to be anywhere near them, and that is why I left. Peter knows that, and so did Brendan,” he told the Telegraph, indicating internal disagreements over transfer targets.

Following his time at Celtic, Congerton joined Rodgers at Leicester City. Now at Atalanta he described their situation as “very different,” likely referring to more substantial investment in player recruitment compared to his previous constraints at Celtic.

Congerton hasn’t said anything Celtic fans didn’t already know about the club and the way the board do business, especially Peter. Balance sheets first, players second has always been the way forward.

However, if he came to Celtic thinking he could hand out big wages for players to come in, he was on a hiding to nothing. Celtic did sign Odsonne Edouard for around £9m which is still Celtic’s largest ever fee paid out.

Deranged fan calls for ‘Sporting Integrity’ after Celtic split fixtures

Clyde 1 Superscoreboard is either the best or the worst platform for supporters and pundits to interact on all things Scottish football. With a cast of pundits ranging from football writers to ex-professionals, Gordon Duncan tackles the headline and leads the discussion.

However, the popularity of the show often leads to some utterly bizarre contributions from supporters and on Tuesday evening, a Rangers supporter provided a truly nonsensical statement regarding the split fixtures.

The caller asked why Celtic had three home games whilst his beloved Rangers had two home games. The matter was escalated when he uttered the infamous words ‘sporting integrity’, which tells you exactly where their support is at present.

The caller’s main contention is that Philippe Clement’s side must go to Paisley for a third time whilst Celtic host Stephen Robinson’s side for a third time.

Kenny Miller, to his credit, quickly shut down the argument and suggestion that their was some kind of anti-Rangers conspiracy.

Celtic, of course, have had to play away to Aberdeen twice, Hibs twice and Motherwell twice while Rangers have only played each team once away from home. Now, they will benefit from the split as fixtures level out nineteen home and away games for each team.

The fixtures confirmed Celtic would travel to Dens on Sunday 28 April before hosting Hearts the following Saturday ahead of a Glasgow Derby meeting with Rangers on 11 May . Thereafter, a trip to Kilmarnock midweek awaits before Celtic’s campaign finishes with St Mirren coming to Paradise.

Opinion: Mikey is simply being sweet, so forget what Brendan said about him.

Celtic winger Mikey Johnston continues to impress in his loan spell at West Bromwich Albion, so much so that he was yesterday named English Championship Player of the Month.

The Irish international has scored seven goals and proved one assist in just 14 games for the Midlands club and is clearly enjoying his loan spell at the Hawthorns, and could help West Brom win that coveted promotion back to the Premier League.

That might have come as a surprise to most Celtic supporters, but Mikey is undoubtedly a talented player, he’s just not showed that at Celtic on a consistent basis due to many reasons including injury.

That said, I don’t think he has a future at Celtic and I think the overwhelming majority of Celtic supporters will agree. He’s just about to turn 25 so he’s not a youngster anymore. While he has undoubted talent, he’s not got the physical or mental ability to play for Celtic. that’s been proven over the many years he’s been at the club.

That doesn’t mean he can’t have a decent career elsewhere. Look how he’s flourishing down south with West Brom. Sometimes players are not suited to certain clubs, and that is the case regarding Mikey at Celtic. He’s clearly thriving away from the pressures of being a Celtic player.

Speaking to The Celtic Star at Lennoxtown, Brendan Rodgers yesterday spoke of his admiration for Mikey and his belief that he can make his mark at Celtic next season.

Brendan Rodgers told The Celtic Star Editor:

“In terms of Mikey, shifting onto him, I’m absolutely delighted for him, because he’s a young player that I always said I rated highly. It’s been a challenge for him the past couple of years with injuries and having to go out on loan to play.

“The first six months of his time here, I said to him ‘Just prove that you’re fit and have the fitness level to sustain and train every day and be able to be available for games.’ In fairness to him, he did that, and by the end, he was contributing for us.

“He really needed games, he’s 24 years of age and needed to get out and play. What he’s shown and demonstrated is no surprise. I said it before, he’s one of the best talents to come out of the academy. He’s quick, he’s direct and he can score goals.

“For him to go there and get that award – with some outstanding players in the Championship – it shows you how well he’s done. Hopefully, he can continue with that and come back to here in the summer and be really energised again and full of confidence and be ready to make an impact.”

That had several Celtic supporters in a frenzy, but they needn’t worry.

In my opinion, Brendan was just being cute, nothing more. He’s not daft, he knows Mikey’s value will have rocketed due to his blistering form down south. He’s only protecting his asset and making sure the club are in the driving seat when it comes to negotiating the best possible fee for Mikey.

If West Brom do get promotion to the Premier League you would imagine that Mikey might fancy a shot at playing in one of the top league’s in world football.

Watch Brendan’s media conference below…

An absolute steal- Sutton names Celtic’s priority summer signing

Chris Sutton has identified Celtic’s first summer signing- loan bhoy Adam Idah.

Announced in the final hour of the January transfer window there was no fanfare for the arrival of the Irishman which seemed to be down to the arrival of Sydney van Hooijdonk at Norwich City.

‘Third choice striker’ was among the politest reaction to the Idah deal from Celtic fans that had hoped Brendan Rodgers would get his wish with four quality arrivals.

A week after arriving Idah scored with two penalties against Hibs and suddenly Celtic had a very different attacking option, he followed that up with another double, at Motherwell and suddenly the January window didn’t seem so bad after all.

Goals at Hibs and Motherwell are all well and good but there is one fixture that all players are measured in, at Ibrox on Sunday Idah was only given half an hour but made his mark on the Glasgow Derby.

Assessing his contribution, Sutton told Daily Record readers:

You look at the impact Adam Idah had when he came on. There’s an argument he should have been introduced sooner, but he put himself about and was unlucky not to be the match winner.

I thought some of the criticism of Jack Butland was harsh as it was a tremendous finish from the Irishman for the third goal, through the defender and right down low towards the keeper’s leg. If it wasn’t for Rabbi Matondo’s sublime equaliser, Idah would have gone down as an Old Firm hero.

As it was, he has only added to his case for a permanent transfer this summer. That’s six goals in just nine games for Idah – and only six starts– and I’m sure Norwich City fans will be wondering where it’s come from.

I don’t. I’ve always said he has ability and sometimes it just needs a change of scenery for a player to spark into life. By all accounts Idah was the one who really pushed for the move to Celtic and he’s really grabbed his chance. It wasn’t easy when he came in but he’s won over a lot of supporters.

There was some talk when he arrived that it would cost around £3m to get him on a permanent deal and if that’s the figure this summer, it would be an absolute steal. Idah has shown he can bring something different to the attack. Kyogo will always be the main man when fit, but it’s important to have a different option in certain games or coming off the bench.

When you consider some of the cash spent on strikers at Celtic in recent years, that would be small change to land a player who still has more developing to do and plenty of potential. If Idah does the business in the remainder of the campaign it would be a crying shame not to buy him.

Getting Idah for £3m would be a steal in the current climate. In the summer of 2022 Celtic spent £6m each on Cameron Carter-Vickers and Jota, at that level you get a certain standard of player with Idah’s contribution to date suggesting that a similar fee would be money well spent.

‘The reality is’: Michaele Beale makes Celtic admission after watching draw with Rangers at the weekend

Celtic’s point earned at Ibrox on Sunday sets the league title run-in up for an exciting end-of-season climax.

With only one point separating Brendan Rodgers and Rangers, albeit the Ibrox club have a game-in-hand, it’s all to play for with just six games remaining.

Celtic face St Mirren on Saturday before the top-six split and whilst those fixtures are yet to be announced, former Rangers manager, Michael Beale, has made a Celtic admission about the next Glasgow Derby.

Micheal Beale didn’t have the best of times against Celtic when he was the manager of Rangers. In six fixtures against the Hoops, Beale lost four, drew one and won just one. [Transfermarkt]

The one he was victorious in didn’t really matter in the grand scheme of things as Ange Postecoglou already had the league title wrapped up.

Michael Beale says it’s advantage Celtic

But after watching Sunday’s draw at Ibrox, Beale admits that with the next Glasgow Derby being at Celtic Park, Brendan Rodgers now has a massive advantage.

Speaking on punditry duty with Sky Sports last night, Beale was asked by a colleague if he felt Celtic now have an advantage heading into the next derby.

The former Rangers gaffer said, “Well, you would say it would give the home team the advantage because there’s no away fans and that puts pressure on the refs.

“I have been worked 18-19 Old F*rm games and it’s only ever been 700 or nothing so the reality is the referee is under a lot of pressure.

“I’ve lived that in Brazil in the derbies as well. So next year, obviously with the fans going back in it’s great.

“I think it’s too hard to tell. I felt Rangers were a little bit emotional at the weekend with the ball first half because they had the fans behind them in such a big game and it helped Celtic look a little bit more composed.

“But let’s hope that they both bring the business to that game because I think it’d be a fantastic watch for everybody.

“It’s a huge derby and obviously there’s so much riding on it.”

Before we even start thinking about the next game against Rangers, Celtic must focus on what’s coming up next.

Because it’s pointless taking something from Ibrox and then dropping points on your next fixture and I am sure Rodgers will have his team fully focused on that.

All Celtic need to do is win their last six games of the season and the title is theirs and it all starts on Saturday against Stephen Robinson’s side.

Celtic interest ‘becoming concrete’ – Ambitious player can move to Glasgow when window opens

Two days ago, we covered claims from Turkey that Celtic are keen on signing Trabzonspor goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır, and Brendan Rodgers has requested the possibility to have a conference call with him.

Çakır isn’t the only stopper on Celtic’s radar as they have also set their sights on Werder Bremen’s Michael Zetterer.

That’s according to Bild, who explain that there’s interest from Celtic in signing the 28-year-old.

The German has kept five clean sheets and conceded 27 goals from 21 games this season and has over a year left on his current deal.

Bild say he’s had a ‘successful season’ so far, and therefore, Werder Bremen want to extend his contract beyond 2025 and offer improved terms. The stopper is hesitant to accept and is keeping an eye on the transfer market, where Celtic have emerged as a candidate.

When asked about the contract renewal last month, he said: “I’m an athlete and very ambitious, so let’s see.”

Bild say it isn’t surprising that other clubs have taken notice of Zetterer’s fine displays and among these, the interest from Glasgow side is ‘now becoming more concrete’.

Celtic stopper Joe Hart has announced his decision to retire after this season and Brendan Rodgers’ side have to find a replacement for him in the next window.

It’s claimed Celtic like Zetterer’s qualities and his profile ‘fits perfectly’ to become Hart’s successor. BRodgers’ side now have to convert their interest into an offer, if they wish to bring the German to Celtic Park.

Mikey Johnston Nominated For English Championship Award

On-loan Celtic winger Mikey Johnston has been nominated for the EFL Championship Fans’ Player of the Month for March.

He scored with a smart finish at the weekend but it is his form last month which saw him put up for the award alongside the likes of Ethan Ampadu, Leif Davis, Haji Wright, Josh Sargent, and Matthew Clarke.

Throughout March, Johnston registered five goal contributions in as many games. He stood out and continually does so for the Baggies as they make their push for promotion.

Currently, they occupy a play-off spot, sitting fifth in the Championship table. They remain six points clear of Coventry who languish in seventh, though, and have a game in hand.

England’s second tier is one of the most unpredictable divisions in the world. If West Brom eventually goes up to the Premier League, it will surely only serve to benefit Celtic.

Given his success in the Midlands so far, the Hawthorns side will likely want to keep hold of Johnston – who has seven goals in 13 appearances for the club – if they go up, and the Hoops could gain a pretty fee from such a move.

Gabby Agbonlahor destroys’standard’ in Celtic draw, meaning that Rotten Rangers stars would not play in the English Championship.

Gabby Agbonlahor couldn’t believe how bad Rangers were during an abject first 45 minutes against Celtic and insists half of their stars wouldn’t get a game in the English CHAMPIONSHIP.

The former Villa star was shocked at how bad the hosts were in front of their own fans as Brendan Rodgers‘ side opened up a two goal first half lead without really breaking sweat. Daizen Maeda tackled in the first after 21 seconds, punishing James Tavernier’s inexplicable indecision which put his team on the backfoot from the off.

Matt O’Riley’s Panenka pen made it two and Agbonlahor told the Light Blues they were lucky it wasn’t more by the time John Beaton blew the whistle for the break. He namechecked several of Philippe Clement‘s starters who failed to get to grips with the occasion before a second half salvage job rescued a 3-3 draw in stoppage time. And Agbonlahor reckons a few of Philippe Clement’s charges would struggle for game time in England’s second tier.

“The standard of Rangers’ football in the first half, I was shocked,” he said. “I was speaking to friends in group chats and I’m like: ‘The standard!’

Ranges fans created an outstanding atmosphere. It’s a derby game the perfect game to go and play your best football. Tavernier was terrible and he’s normally one of the better players for Rangers.

Goldson, Wright, Lawrence, Dessers, honestly. I was watching this game and half of this Rangers team wouldn’t get into Championship sides. That’s how bad they were first half.

“Celtic were quite wasteful with a few chances but they were so on top in that first half. The Rangers fans were getting so furstrated with their team. Poor qiality.

“Second half they made changes and were better. But Celtic should have scored four or five in that first half.”

Celtic daft talkSport colleague Alan Brazil admitted he had to switch over. He added: “I got so frustrated that I couldn’t watch it. I had to sit on my balcony with the radio on and listen to the commentary. I had to sit there with a glass of wine and just try to kid on I was casually listening to it.

‘Definitely’: Ange Postecoglou makes claim about Rangers v Celtic ahead of Glasgow derby tomorrow

Glasgow Rangers and Celtic will be contesting one of the most important Glasgow derbies at Ibrox on Sunday.

There is very little between the Gers and the Bhoys at present, with Philippe Clement’s side just one point behind Brendan Rodgers’ charges in the table.

Celtic currently sit top with 74 points from 31 games, while Rangers are second on 73 points – and crucially, with a game in hand on the Hoops.

Sunday sees Ibrox play host to Rangers and Celtic in a match that could have a big say in where the title ultimately goes at the end of the season.

The Glasgow derby is one of the fiercest derbies in the world, and one man who has considerable experience of this is Ange Postecoglou.

The Australian managed Celtic between 2021 and 2023, winning two Premiership titles, two Scottish League Cups and one Scottish Cup in that time.

Postecoglou may have since swapped Parkhead for the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, but he’s still looking to follow the game on Sunday.

What has Ange Postecoglou said about Rangers v Celtic?

I’ll definitely be watching,” Postecoglou said at Spurs’ pre-match press conference ahead of the Nottingham Forest game, posted on YouTube.

“It’s one of the biggest rivalries in world football. I am very much on the green and white side and I know what it means to the supporters to win that game.

“As much as we talk about derbies and they mean more, this one does.

“I lived and breathed it for a couple of years and it’s a really important game for both clubs, and you look at how tight the table is this year and it takes on extra significance.

“It’ll be a cracking game and I’ll be tuning in.”

It’s good to hear Postecoglou still speak highly of Celtic and of the Glasgow derby.

With six hours between the derby kicking off and Spurs taking on Nottingham Forest, the Australian will have a chance to follow the match, and hopefully it’ll be a good spectacle.

Rangers’ Celtic injury tracker shows Luis Palma’s “revealed” return timeframe while Callum McGregor is still out.

Crocked Luis Palma is reportedly ahead of schedule in his Celtic injury return and could return to the squad for the blockbuster clash with Rangers.

The winger has not featured for Brendan Rodgers‘ side since February in the 7-1 defeat after picking up a knick in training and missed his countries crucial Copa America playoff with Costa Rica with the muscle injury – with Celtic winning a tug of war with the Honduras FA over the knock. After a lengthy absence he could be in line to make his return against Ibrox.

The Sun report that Brendan Rodgers is in line for a derby boost and will be involved in training this week ahead of the Scottish Premiership leaders trip across Glasgow to face Philippe Clement’s side. It is claimed that If Palma comes through those sessions with no reaction “he will almost certainly go into Rodgers’ squad” to face Rangers.

It comes after Reo Hatate and Liam Scales both returned from injury in the win over Livingston. Captain Callum McGregor is in the running to also return at Ibrox.

However, Chris Sutton has warned Rodgers’ that he should only bring the skipper in if he is fully fit. He told Sky Sports: “Brendan Rodgers will have a decision to make and Celtic are a better team with McGregor in it. But if he’s not fit, or even half-fit, then he can’t play.”

A former England Under-21 international is being pursued by Celtic, who are facing a Premier League trio.

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers will be keen to reshuffle his squad once the summer window rolls around at Parkhead.

In the January market period, the Irishman moved to trim the likes of David Turnbull, Mikey Johnston and Hyeokkyu Kwon from his squad. However, the latter two will return to Lennoxtown once their loan agreements expire.

Nevertheless, changes are set to alter what has become a familiar group of faces. One man who is certain to leave the club is Joe Hart, who has decided to retire from football at the end of this campaign.

Candidates to replace the Englishman have emerged in media circles, such as RC Waalwijk goalkeeper Ettiene Vaessen and Trabzonspor stopper Ugurcan Cakir; nevertheless, it must be stressed that they appear to be nothing more than rumours at this point.

Further up the pitch, loanee Paulo Bernardo’s situation gained some air time last weekend amid his stunning goal away to Livingston.

The Portugal Under-21 international has shown glimpses of his potential since joining from Benfica last year. Regardless, it remains to be seen whether Celtic activate his buyout clause, which is speculated to be around £6.4 million.

Adam Idah is another individual who doesn’t have public clarity over his future at the Hoops, and he chimed in with an assist against the Lions for Matt O’Riley’s 82nd-minute strike.

Celtic battle Premier League trio to sign Jake Clarke-Salter

According to The Sun, Celtic are locked in a battle with Premier League trio Crystal Palace, Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers to sign Queens Park Rangers defender Jake Clarke-Salter.

The 26-year-old has also attracted interest from Sky Bet Championship outfit Ipswich Town, who could potentially earn promotion to the English top-flight this term.

Capped 12 times by England at Under-21 level, Clarke-Salter has made 29 appearances for QPR in the league this season, registering a solitary goal [Transfermarkt].

Formerly of Chelsea’s academy, he is under contract at Loftus Road until 2026, and it is unclear how much Celtic would need to pay to prize him away from West London.

Clarke-Salter would be a solid addition for Celtic

Providing a solid base for QPR, Clarke-Salter has impressed in the English second tier this season, recording an average of 2.1 tackles won, 4.3 clearances and 4.1 ball recoveries per league match [Sofascore].

Intriguingly, he is also a left-footed centre-back, which is a desired profile in the modern game; nevertheless, if we were to swoop for the Carshalton-born man, questions over the future of Liam Scales would continue to grow amid his contract stalemate at Parkhead.

Either way, despite failing to settle in the early part of his career, Clarke-Salter has finally started to flourish at Loftus Road and appears on paper to be a viable option for Rodgers to bolster his defensive line.

John Kennedy bristles at Celtic critics with ‘focus on negatives’ quip

John Kennedy shut down the “negatives” after a question about Celtic’s recent lack of clean sheets.

The Hoops dominated Livingston in a comfortable 3-0 win yesterday afternoon to keep their first shutout in six fixtures dating back to their 2-0 win over St Mirren on February 11. The assistant manager was asked about the defensive part of the team and how he feels they’ve done this season with conceding unnecessary goals at times.

Kennedy, though, preferred to focus on the positives as he pointed to the number of goals his side have scored in contrast to the limited strikes they’ve shipped and he let Sky Sports‘ Luke Shanley know he’d spotted the more negative spin on the question.

“It’s always nice when you focus on the negatives,” Kennedy said when asked about the clean sheet. “We’ve scored 17 goals outside of the Hearts game and we’ve scored another three today.

“Our defensive game is always important, we know that also gives us momentum as well.

“Today we were strong, we were really strong at the back, I don’t know if Livingston even had a corner.

“All-round it was very pleasing.”

Kevin Thomson Highlights “Quality” Celtic Duo

Former Rangers midfielder Kevin Thomson has highlighted two Celtic players as the best in Scotland.

Thomson was full of praise for Cameron Carter-Vickers and Callum McGregor, with Carter-Vickers starting this afternoon against Livingston, while McGregor himself missed the game but is said to be in contention for the Glasgow Derby next weekend.

Thomson said [BBC Radio Scotland], “I think the main players they have, I think Cameron Carter-Vickers and Callum McGregor are two of the best players in the country by a country mile.

“So I think that when Celtic lose them they really struggle.

“I think Celtic are a wee bit more reliant on Callum McGregor and Carter-Vickers than Rangers would be if they lost one or two of their best players.”

McGregor and Carter-Vickers are undoubtedly two of the first names on the Celtic team sheet week in and week out, and the fact that Thomson made sure to point out their quality says a lot about just how good they are.

Brendan Rodgers will be hopeful that each player can contribute hugely in the coming months.

With Scottish football now in the business end of the season, it is time to see each player at their best if Celtic are to retain the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup.

“It worked quite well”- Scott Brown explains why he shaved his head during his Celtic days

“The media team were not happy with me.”

Celtic legend Scott Brown has revealed why he always shaved his head during his playing days, and no, it wasn’t because of male pattern baldness.

The Celtic hero famously rocked the bald look as he captained his club to multiple honours, and the look did go well with his all-action no-nonsense style of playing.

If you Google the combative midfielder, chances are you will see images of him squaring up against El Hadji Diouf, or celebrating in front of the Rangers fans, all with the same menacing grin and bulging eyes that lets his opponents know he means business.

Now however, the Scotland native is sporting a full head of hair, that got fans thinking he might have got a hair transplant since retiring from football. Speaking to BBC Scotland though, Brown confirms that it is his own hair.

“It’s 100 per cent all my hair. If you want to touch it, feel free

“(I did it) to intimidate people. It worked quite well if I’m honest. During Covid the kids asked if I actually did have hair and I wasn’t 100 per cent sure if I actually could grow it or if I had a receeder.

“So I thought ‘we’ll give it eight, nine weeks’, and it started to grow. I always had really thick, Brillo pad hair. No style to it whatsoever but it just grows out like a tennis ball.

“I ended up getting my first pictures going back to Celtic after Covid. Got the pictures with hair and then shaved it for the first game.

“So you can imagine the media team were not happy with me.”

As far as footballing mysteries go, it is hardly one of the more hard hitting ones, but it certainly does satisfy those who were wondering about Brown’s new luscious locks and why they didn’t make an appearance during his playing days.

Joe Hart Lifts Lid On Iconic Video of His Celebrations at Livingston

Celtic travel to Livingston in the Scottish Premiership tomorrow as the run-in well and truly begins

The last time the Hoops made the jaunt through to West Lothian, they came away deserved 3-0 winners, but it wasn’t without a mishap or two.

Indeed, goalkeeper Joe Hart was sent off 28 minutes in. This didn’t faze his teammates, however, who put in a stellar performance to win 3-0.

Daizen Maeda’s wonder goal in stoppage time pleased many, particularly Hart. He could be seen in the tunnel celebrating the strike as passionately as ever.

It was the first time the veteran stopper was ever ordered off, and he has admitted that how he celebrated was a normal way for him to act, but he was slightly surprised the cameras picked up on it. “That was naughty”, he told Glasgow Times.

“There was no need for that clip. I was just watching the game and reacting how I would like to react.

“I know we’re in public and people are free to do what they want. I think that was footage from the live cameras they were setting up for the interviews after. So that was a shame.

“But that was Daizen scoring an absolute banger to make it three. I’d liked to have celebrated with him obviously but that’s what it was.

“Of course [the fans loved it]. But it’s me. That’s how I am. That’s the truth. It’s a shame as you want to feel comfortable to express yourself in a controlled environment, but that’s modern-day life.”

This weekend at Livingston, Celtic cannot afford any mishaps. Hart staying on the pitch for 90 minutes would be ideal, and fans would be greatly pleased with a similar scoreline to what their last trip to Almondvale ended.

Kick-off tomorrow is at midday, and the game is live on Sky Sports.

Joe Hart: For the Livingston test, we’ll be ready and well-prepared.

Joe Hart welcomed the international break and the chance to spend some time away from the training ground.

But the Celtic goalkeeper, like the rest of his team-mates, was also delighted to return to Lennoxtown and get back down to business.

That’s involved preparing for this Sunday’s trip to Livingston, and Hart is hoping that over the next few weeks, the squad will be back to more or less full strength as they chase silverware on two fronts.

The Hoops returned to the top of the Premiership table with a victory over St Johnstone, and the aim is to deliver another three points this weekend to maintain that place.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s game, the 36-year-old said: “We’ve got to keep everyone in as good a condition as we possibility can, have as strong a squad to pick from and look to attack every game.

‘We’re in a good place. There’s always that fresh feeling after an international. You spent a lot of time together so it’s nice to have some time apart.’

“We’re getting a few people back fit so I feel like we’re in a good spot.

“There’s no doubt we’re at our best when we’ve got everyone available and the manager’s got decisions on who he wants to pick in every single position.

He arrived as an unknown quantity but left as a fans’ favourite.

Just seen this nice mention in the Celtic Star – thanks! #CelticFC https://t.co/f637y9stPo

— Nick De Marco KC (@nickdemarco_) March 16, 2020

It’s far to say that that was one of the easiest victories of the sports barrister’s career to-date and he’s bound to enjoy dealing with the Scottish FA as most of the time he’s got to contend with competent sports professionals and administrators.

It’s Brendan in the dock this time, for calling out Beaton and Robertson after their double act to rescue the season after Motherwell had won at Ibrox. Yang’s nonsense red, upgraded from a yellow on Beaton’s insistence and then the icing on the cake as Beaton used his laptop to find a handball that no-one in football ever would say is a penalty, never mind a clear and obvious error missed by the referee.

Robertson didn’t have the balls to say no to Beaton and Brendan’s description of all that being merely incompetence does both officials a massive favour. If it’s not incompetence then what exactly was going on? Most Celtic supporters could give an answer to that one and they’d probably be hitting the nail on the head.

Will tomorrow go down this rabbit hole and will the Scottish FA be getting hot under the collar as it all unfolds?

Now the rules and regulations that are in place on what managers and players can say about referees is one thing but what about VAR officials? A referee or his assistant could previously make a call that later TV showed to be wrong. Let’s say on an offside decision. Flagged off, no goal. TV shows player was on – it’s an honest mistake and the rules are there to protect the officials in those circumstances.

But here both decisions were correct in real time – yellow to Yang, no penalty to Hearts, but VAR found reasons to change the referees mind. In effect VAR (John Beaton) was refereeing the game from his monitor – NOT what he’s supposed to be doing and Robertson was allowing this to happen.

Starting to reek of something is it not?

Here’s what Brendan said after the controversial incidents at Typecastle earlier this month:

“I try to respect decisions and give the benefit of the doubt but I think when I see that level of incompetence, which is the only word I can use, then that makes me worry for the game. In such a tight title race that can make the difference. I also think that VAR is not the problem here. “That’s clear. It’s competence.

“The first one is the sending off when there is no force. Show a still image of that and of course and you will see a foot up with the head near it, but it’s not the reality of the move. Don got it actually right on the field. It was a high boot, so it’s a yellow card – no malice or force.

“For John Beaton to actually look at that in VAR, supposedly under no pressure, and say that was sending off? I find that incredible. The second one is worse. If you have a penalty go against you for that then there will be penalties every single weekend and midweek,” Brendan Rodgers

One way of the other we will know the outcome tomorrow. If Brendan Rodgers is given a two match ban then Celtic – and the Celtic support – must consider all options. There is widespread unhappiness in Scottish football about the competency of the VAR staff and already Crawford Allan, the Head of Referees has fallen on his sword.

Motherwell and St Johnstone have both spoken up about VAR in recent days. Celtic could consider publicly stating that the club no longer wish to finance VAR and seek support around the league. Other clubs will feel the same.

Being the first country to walk away from VAR because essentially the Scottish FA cannot manage it probably will be hugely embarrassing for the Scottish FA. But the game in Scotland would be all the better to having put VAR in the bin. That’s where this is heading for the Scottish FA.

Cost £3m: Ange struck gold for Celtic by signing star who’s “reminiscent of Trent” – opinion

Celtic brought manager Brendan Rodgers back to Glasgow last summer after Australian head coach Ange Postecoglou decided to make a move down south.

The now-Spurs boss enjoyed a terrific two years in Scotland and was particularly successful in the transfer market with several fantastic additions, including the likes of Jota, Kyogo Furuhashi, Joe Hart, and Cameron Carter-Vickers.

One of his last signings in charge of the Hoops, during the January transfer window at the start of last year, was right-back Alistair Johnston from MLS side CF Montreal.

Postecoglou struck gold by bringing the Canadian to Parkhead, as his value has since soared alongside his excellent front-footed displays for the club.

How much Celtic paid to sign Alistair Johnston

The Daily Record reported that Celtic splashed out a fee of £3m to sign the talented defender after his impressive performances in North America throughout 2022.

Johnston made 35 appearances in the MLS in the 2022 campaign and caught the eye with four goals and four assists from right-back, which shows that he provided an attacking threat from that position.

The Canada international also won 50% of his defensive duels during that period, as he stood up to the physical test of the division, and the Hoops then swooped to secure his signature midway through their season.

He hit the ground running in the Scottish Premiership, as you can see in the table above, with an impressive return of five ‘big chances’ created in just 14 matches to help the team win the title.

Alistair Johnston’s current market value

At the time of writing (26/03/2024), Johnston is valued at €8m (£6.8m) by Transfermarkt and this shows that Postecoglou and Celtic hit the jackpot with him, as his value has soared and his performances on the pitch have been, largely, superb.

The 25-year-old whiz has created eight ‘big chances’ and registered two assists in 25 Premiership matches for the Hoops so far this season, which means that he has racked up 15 ‘big chances’ created in just 39 league games for the club.

Former Hoops man Steve Guppy, who worked with Johnston at Nashville in the MLS, heaped praise on the full-back’s outstanding ability to cross the ball.

He claimed that the right-back’s style and technique when it came to passing and crossing the ball was “reminiscent of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s at Liverpool”, and went on to say that he was “excited” to see the defender play for Celtic due to that quality.

Johnston has recorded two assists in his last four Premiership matches for the Hoops and both of those were crosses to Adam Idah, who converted one with his left foot and one with his head.

That is incredibly high praise when you consider that the England international recently broke the Premier League record for assists by defenders, with the 58th of his career so far – by the age of just 25.

At 25, the Celtic star still has plenty of time left ahead of him to develop and improve over the years to come. For now, though, it is hard to deny that he has been a terrific signing by Postecoglou, with his soaring value and Trent-like crosses in the Premiership.

Celtic ‘Show Trial’ Shambles: Pundit Blasts SFA

The controversy over Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers’ scheduled disciplinary has been the source of fevered debate, with SSB pundit Hugh Keevins launching a scathing critique, labeling the proceedings as a “show trial” and questioning its legitimacy.

This comes in the wake of Crawford Allan, the head of referees, announcing his decision to step down, albeit remaining in position until the end of the season due to the lack of an immediate successor. Allan’s continued but diminished role has sparked debate, particularly regarding the appropriateness of pursuing disciplinary action against Rodgers for his criticism of John Beaton’s VAR performance during the Tynecastle game.

Keevins expressed his concerns in a RecordSport column, pointing out the precarious situation Allan finds himself in and the implications for the upcoming hearing. He wrote: “Crawford Allan’s decision to stand down as the head of Scotland’s referees, but retain the title until the end of the season on a nominal basis, raises serious questions. The first being the validity of Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers’ appearance in front of a disciplinary hearing on Thursday. Allan has effectively gone from office after a vote of no confidence in him, along with VAR and all its operatives, imposed by the Premiership clubs who were canvassed for their opinion.”

The backdrop to this controversy is a broader dissatisfaction with the implementation of VAR and refereeing standards in Scottish football, sentiments echoed by the Premiership clubs’ lack of confidence in the system and its overseers. Keevins’ commentary sheds light on the complexity of enforcing disciplinary measures in such a turbulent landscape, especially when the individual at the centre of the enforcement is considered a “lame duck.”

This situation leaves Celtic and Brendan Rodgers in an awkward position as they prepare for the hearing. With Rodgers potentially facing a touchline ban ahead of crucial matches, the debate over the fairness and timing of the disciplinary process has intensified.

The legitimacy of pursuing punitive measures under these circumstances is now under scrutiny, casting a shadow over the Scottish FA’s disciplinary procedures and raising questions about the influence of administrative challenges on the fair treatment of clubs and managers in the league.

Henrik Larsson Makes Special Celtic Appearance

Henrik Larsson made a special Celtic appearance overnight in New York City. The legendary striker was in attendance at the Celtic foundation’s annual Gala in Manhattan where they always raise an incredible amount for great causes.

The event is always attended by some of our most famous Celts and it doesn’t get any bigger than Henrik!

Larsson, who joined Celtic in 1997, is revered not just for his goal-scoring prowess but also for his significant impact on the club. Over seven years, he became Celtic’s third-highest scorer, netting 242 goals in 315 appearances

His journey with the hoops was marked by remarkable resilience, including a dramatic comeback from a career-threatening leg injury in 1999.

Under manager Martin O’Neill, Larsson experienced a golden era, forming a lethal partnership with Chris Sutton and leading Celtic to domestic and European success.

His Hoops highlight’s include stopping the ten under Wim Jansen, a domestic treble in the 2000/2001 season and a memorable run to the UEFA Cup final in 2003, where Larsson’s performance solidified his status as a Celtic legend.

Celtic could be in line for ‘huge’ post-international break boost as pundit makes title claim

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers will be keen to ensure his side can have a clean bill of health once his side return from the international break.

Several Bhoys have left Parkhead to embark on their travels, with Greg Taylor and Anthony Ralston forming part of the Scotland set-up under Steve Clarke.

Nevertheless, one man who isn’t part of the Tartan Army’s plans due to injury is club captain Callum McGregor, though he will come into contention once Scottish club football resumes.

Cameron Carter-Vickers started against St Johnstone last weekend and helped to shore up our backline. Despite this, it has been decided that the Southend-born man will continue his fitness progress at Lennoxtown rather than travelling to link up with the United States national team.

Reo Hatate is nearing match readiness after a long-term absence from the Celtic midfield; meanwhile, Liam Scales, Maik Nawrocki and Luis Palma are three other individuals who won’t be involved for their respective nations.

The Bhoys travel to face Livingston in 11 days’ time, and it remains to be seen who could manage to recuperate in time to face David Martindale’s outfit at the Tony Macaroni Arena.

In light of our ongoing battle to win the Scottish Premiership, Rodgers appears to be trying to rouse the cavalry for a charge towards the finish line.

Stephen McGinn believes Celtic trio return could be ‘huge boost’

I’m sure everyone will be sick of the phrase ‘like a new signing’ by now; however, the return of important first-team players from injury is always cause for optimism at Parkhead.

In our case, being able to introduce McGregor, Hatate and Carter-Vickers back into the fold as a trio would be a major shot in the arm, given their importance to Rodgers’ tactical framework.

Pundit Stephen McGinn shares this sentiment and believes that the three men in question re-entering the fray would incrementally boost our title chances.

He stated [Go Radio Football Show]: “It would be a huge boost, if they’re able to get Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate and Cameron Carter-Vickers fit for these last eight games, then they have a real chance of winning the league title.

“You see the difference, Carter-Vickers is off the pitch for five minutes, St Johnstone had hardly been out their own half, and score instantly when he goes off the park, so I think combined in the league, they’ve only played three games together.”

Celtic have title destiny in their own hands

Undoubtedly, both sides of the Glasgow divide will believe in their chances of winning the title; however, the experience of winning league silverware in the Celtic dressing room could go a long way between now and the time all is said and done.

McGinn’s point stands to reason, and Carter-Vickers, McGregor and Hatate are among a core of pivotal individuals who have been instrumental to our success over the last couple of years.

Looking forward, Rodgers will know the importance of ensuring the trio are available ahead of our trip to Ibrox next month.

Brendan Rodgers’ title race message ahead of a big weekend for Celtic

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is relishing the opportunity to test his team in the fire of a title run-in, speaking ahead of what is a big weekend for the Bhoys.

Rodgers’ side have the opportunity to put serious pressure on league leaders Rangers with a victory over St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday.

If Celtic beat Craig Levein’s outfit at home later today, they will move a point above the Ibrox team ahead of their tricky trip away to Dundee on Sunday.

A lot has been said about the direction of Celtic’s season, the failings and the inconsistency. For Rodgers, it’s time to put all of that aside and he doesn’t care if he is the hunter or the hunted with nine games to go.

Brendan Rodgers looking forward to Celtic title test

The Celtic boss said [Daily Record]: “It’s all about how you finish the race. This is the point that matters. There was a lot of noise and everything around the beginning of the season for whatever reasons. But ultimately it’s part of the season and I will be interested if we win the league and the Scottish Cup what the thoughts are around that.

“But my only thought is for the team going into a real exciting bit, having these players back, and dealing with the pressure that comes with these last period of games.

“Being the hunter or the hunted doesn’t really matter to me. It’s about performing and getting to the end point where you want to finish.

“I’m only thinking about the game against St Johnstone. We are still in a really good position with what looks like is going to be a strong squad for the run in. I am really looking forward to that because it’s been good, a challenge in so many different ways, but that’s why we are here – to take on those challenges and come together and finish as strong as we possibly can.”

There’s zero room for error at Celtic at this stage. There are seven non-derby matches to go and realistically the Bhoys have to pick up all 21 of those points – it’s too late to rely on Rangers dropping points.

Then there are the two remaining league derbies themselves which, in fairness to Rodgers, is a fixture that has gone Celtic’s way so far this season.

If the manager can kick the team into gear for this final stretch then silverware is achievable – but the Hearts disaster really must be the last one of the season.

Let’s see how they do at Celtic Park on Saturday.

‘Tricky’: Dejected Craig Levein explains why he’s glad he doesn’t face ‘fantastic’ Celtic every week

Celtic’s 3-1 win over St Johnstone puts the pressure back on Rangers at the top of the table this afternoon.

Brendan Rodgers‘ side looked back to their best as they delivered a brilliant all-round performance that the Celtic fans have not seen for quite some time this season.

Their constant pressure at closing down the St Johnstone players and their attacking intent was reminiscent of the kind of football we witnessed under Ange Postecoglou.

And it was this type of performance that left St Johnstone manager, Craig Levein, admitting that he’s happy that he doesn’t need to face the Parkhead side every week.

Levein said [Sky Sports], “I thought without the ball we were pretty good. Whenever we did win it back, particularly in the first half, we just turned it over nearly every time probably doubling the amount of attacks that Celtic had through our own inadequacy to keep possession of the ball.

“And that just made it harder for us defensively. And if you can get periods of control in the game then what that means is that your defenders are constantly under pressure in here.

“Attack after attack after attack with players who it’s not as simple as just defending crosses, there’s a lot of different passes that are played in that created opportunities for the Celtic players and you fall asleep for a second and you find yourself in trouble.”

“But this isn’t a game that’s going to define our season. We’ve got a lot of matches to play that will involve many different types of mental problems for us.

“This is a tricky place to come with a big pitch, a great surface and the movement Celtic have got is fantastic.

“And that was really tiring. For us. But that’s not what we’re facing every week.”

Watching the interview you could see the abject disappointment on Levein’s face in the tone of his voice as Celtic blew his St Johnstone team away.

As I said earlier, this was a performance that we have not seen from a Brendan Rodgers side for pretty much of the whole season.

Their attacking flair, particularly down the right flank with Nicolas Kuhn, was exceptional. The German winger is really starting to show the signs of the player that persuaded Rodgers to splash £3m on the German winger in January.

The only blot on Celtic’s performance was the fact that we conceded a poor goal that should have been dealt with much better by the back four.

But overall, as Levein admits, Celtic were fantastic yesterday and it’s just a pity that the international break has come when it has.

Because looking at what Brendan Rodgers’ side has delivered recently, barring the Hearts result, this team is growing more and more with confidence at the business end of the season and it has just made this title run-in all the more interesting for the Celtic fans.