Celtic loanee Mikey Johnston has been named the English Championship’s Player of the Month for March.

The winger has been on electric form since moving to the Midlands, and his efforts have paid off.

Last month, he scored four goals and registered one assist across five league appearances with his exploits being rightly recognised.

Few would have anticipated Johnston’s prosperity since joining the Baggies, particularly after his inconsistency at Celtic in the first half of the season.

Brendan Rodgers gave the 24-year-old several opportunities at a key time in the campaign but he never got going. All he has to shout about from his 12 Celtic appearances this season is a Boxing Day brace off the bench at Dens Park.

Johnston frustrated many in green and white in 2023/24 but has now quite literally reaped the rewards of a move to The Hawthorns.

In 14 games for West Brom so far, the attacker has scored seven goals and assisted another. With four Championship fixtures to go, his team comfortably occupy a play-off spot.

Helping fire the Baggies back to the dizzy heights of the Premier League would satisfy Johnston and ensure Celtic will get a pretty penny for his services if and when he departs permanently this summer.

Regarding the lessons he gained from Liverpool’s heartbreak during the Celtics title match

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has plenty of experience in fighting for trophies as he leads the Bhoys into the final stretch of the campaign.

With just six Scottish Premiership matches remaining, Celtic sit a point ahead of Rangers and will have the chance to open up a four-point advantage on Saturday at home to St Mirren.

In unusual circumstances, Rangers’ trip to Dundee was postponed once again last night due to rainfall at Dens Park, meaning we now have a chance to heap real pressure on our rivals’ shoulders ahead of their trip to Ross County the following day.

Psychology isn’t everything in a title race, though it can certainly play a part, and Rodgers will know all too well what happens when you miss out by the skin of your teeth.

Back in 2013/14, he took Liverpool two within two points of their first Premier League title since the reformation of the English top-flight.

Going through an unfortunate capitulation, a 2-0 defeat at home to Chelsea (famed for Steven Gerrard’s slip) followed by a 3-3 draw at Crystal Palace despite being 3-0 up ensured Manchester City claimed first prize.

It should be said that the Anfield side had a remarkable team then, and Rodgers will have learned some valuable lessons to apply in his future coaching career.

Brendan Rodgers on Liverpool experience and Celtic hopes

Since leaving Liverpool, Rodgers achieved seven successive trophies in his first spell at Celtic before bringing an FA Cup home in his time at Leicester City, an extraordinary triumph in the circumstances.

Now back at Parkhead, he is expected to secure a domestic double before the end of this campaign. Speaking to Celtic TV, the 51-year-old has opened up on his previous experiences with Liverpool and hopes for our remaining league fixtures.

Rodgers stated [Celtic TV]: “I think the learning from it was not to be too emotional. The emotion is fine and this title race really makes us better. It’s so important to be able to control that emotion. It’s a choice. You want the excitement and dreams, absolutely. That’s what being a supporter is all about. From a football perspective, it’s about finding that calmness.

“We play a game with emotion, we play with a tactical idea and a high level of technique of course, but mentally you need to be stable when everything around you can feel chaotic. But I think the team is now coming into a really, really good place.

“We showed that at the weekend that we have the heart, fight and desire to go to the most toughest arenas that you can ever go to as a Celtic player and get a result from it.

“Now, we’re arriving into the next six games and have an opportunity to really reinforce that, and that’s something that we aim to do.”

Celtic proved they can more than match Rangers in the Glasgow Derby last Sunday, whetting our appetite for another crack at Philippe Clement’s outfit at Parkhead post-split.

Of course, St Mirren lay in wait this weekend before our fixtures on the other side of the schedule, though we know that six league victories will be enough to ensure Rodgers’ men claim first spot when all is said and done.

Celtic’s Unexpected Player of the Year – Opinion

The discussion around the club’s Player of the Year has, unsurprisingly, centered on one standout performer: Matt O’Riley.

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Rangers v Celtic – Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – April 7, 2024 Celtic’s Matt O’Riley celebrates scoring their second goal with Greg Taylor Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduf

O’Riley has been nothing short of phenomenal this season. With 13 goals to his name, topping Celtic’s scoring charts in the league, his contribution has been pivotal.

His ability to not only maintain but elevate his assists tally while adding significant goal-scoring prowess makes him a strong contender. And he has seven, potentially eight, games to add to his already superb numbers.

Yet, despite his sparkling form, he isn’t my pick for the Player of the Year.

Instead, that honour should go to Joe Hart, the veteran goalkeeper whose retirement adds a poignant layer to his candidacy.

Soccer Football – Champions League – Group E – Celtic v Feyenoord – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – December 13, 2023 Celtic’s Joe Hart celebrates after the match REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

Hart, set to retire at season’s end, could depart with a final flourish if Celtic secures the league and Scottish Cup—a fairytale ending that few in football ever experience.

Winning the league would mark a perfect three-for-three in league titles during his time at the club, a testament to his impact and consistency.

But it isn’t merely the emotional narrative or his impending retirement that makes Hart my choice.

It’s his undeniable influence on Celtic’s performances, particularly when stakes are high.

This season, Hart’s heroics have been a linchpin in Celtic’s title charge. His prowess in goal, especially since the turn of the year, has been critical.

Time and again, he has made crucial saves that have not only preserved leads but directly contributed to vital points. This was never more evident than in Celtic’s recent clash against Rangers, where Hart’s spectacular double save at the end of the first half kept a 2-0 lead intact.

Throughout his three years at Celtic, Hart has demonstrated why he is among the elite. This season, arguably his finest in a Celtic shirt, has reaffirmed his status. His experience, leadership, and shot-stopping ability will be sorely missed. He’ll be a significant loss to the team.

Silva and Cantwell show difference between Celtic and Rangers

Silva and Cantwell perfectly sum up the difference in attitude between Celtic and theRangers.

The very fact that the Rangers were thrilled and delighted with a point in yesterday’s Glasgow Derby match in their own backyard, while Celtic looked extremely disappointed tells its own story regarding the mentality of both clubs.

Two players from the Ibrox side who sum up the club perfectly and are rather suited to wearing the light blue are Todd Cantwell and Fabio Silva. Their attitude definitely leaves a lot to be desired.

Silva particularly who was a disgrace the entire time he was on the field. His antics were disgusting and even theRangers supporters looked as if they had enough of his amateur theatrics. He’s a cheat plain and simple, you’d think there was a sniper in the stands yesterday with the amount to times he fell to ground pretending to writhe in agony.

The incident where he got Alistair Johnston booked was disgraceful. Remember when the Scottish FA hit Scott Brown with charges of not doing the best for Association football? Let’s see the Compliance Officer dig out that rule to charge Silva today. He won’t because he plays for theRangers.

The fact that he dodged a yellow for simulation was quite remarkable, well John Beaton was the ref so maybe not. Ironically the one time he was booked for simulation it was overturned, despite video evidence proving the contrary.

The fact Wolves paid £40 million for him shows how heavily inflated the English transfer market is. Celtic were said to have been interested in the Portuguese forward, I think we dodged a bullet there!

As for Tik Tok Todd himself, well he proved his character yesterday by starting fights and then running away to hide behind his teammates. Yet he still had the audacity to post an image on social media making him look something of a hard man!

Thankfully we don’t have anyone who resorts to such behaviour amongst our squad, not that the supporters or manager would stand for such behaviour. But the Ibrox support lap it all up, which rather perfectly sums up the difference in attitude and mindset between the two clubs.

Celebrating a victory and a manager stating that is was a win when the game ended 3-3 is comical in itself.

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

Goldson admits Dessers would have a special place in the hearts of Rangers fans if he scores v Celtic

Rangers center back Connor Goldson has admitted it will be huge for Super Eagles forward Cyriel Dessers to score against Celtic in the Old Firm derby on Sunday afternoon.

Dessers arrived at Ibrox with huge expectations but failed to hit the ground running and was subjected to lots of criticisms from fans and pundits.

However, he turned a new leaf upon the arrival of Philippe Clement last October and has become a fan favorite due to his improvement in front of goal.

Despite his newly found form, some are still skeptical about his quality and scoring in the Old Firm derby might finally silence the doubters.

Speaking to Daily Record, Godson reckons Dessers would occupy a special place in the hearts of Rangers fans if he scores against Celtic but also said that he won’t be judged only by that at the end of the season.

“Of course, but at the same time he just needs to keep doing it every single game,” Godson said.

“Like I have said before, at the end of the season he will be judged on his numbers. It won’t just be this game.

“He will be judged on how he has helped the team throughout the season and how many goals he has scored.

“Recently he has been doing that really well so hopefully that can continue.”

Rangers head into the game one point adrift of their fiercest rivals but have a game at hand, meaning a win tomorrow will put them in good stead to scoop the league title for the first time since the 2020/2021 season.

The Light Blues will need Dessers to be at his clinical best and add to his 13-goal tally to get a positive result in the clash.

Callum McGregor Returns to Training Ahead of Glasgow Derby

In a significant development for Celtic, captain Callum McGregor has made a timely return to training just days before the highly anticipated Glasgow Derby against Rangers.

McGregor’s presence on the training pitch is a substantial boost for the team as they prepare for the monumental clash this Sunday at midday at Ibrox.

The influential midfielder has been sidelined for the last five matches, leading to widespread speculation that his season might have prematurely concluded due to injury concerns. His unexpected absence left a noticeable gap in Celtic’s lineup. Something Tomoki Iwata has filled in the interim.

However, the sight of McGregor back in action, donning his training gear and actively participating with the squad, has quickly turned the tide of expectations.

His readiness to face Celtic’s arch-rivals in one of the most crucial fixtures of the season has injected a renewed sense of optimism and confidence throughout the club and its supporters.

McGregor’s return is particularly timely given the importance of the upcoming derby. As Celtic aims to assert their dominance and secure vital points, having their captain available for selection could prove to be a game-changer in the dynamics of the match.

The club has yet to officially comment on McGregor’s fitness level or confirm his participation in Sunday’s match. Nonetheless, his involvement in team training sessions is a clear indicator of his progress and potential readiness to take part in the high-stakes encounter.

As the countdown to the derby continues, all eyes will be on McGregor and his potential impact on the field. His leadership, experience, and skill set are invaluable to Celtic, especially in matches of this magnitude.

Referee Beaton to take charge of Old Firm derby

John Beaton will take charge of Sunday’s Scottish Premiership title showdown between Rangers and Celtic.

Rodgers was in the stand for Sunday’s win over Livingston but will be in the dugout at Ibrox.

He had pointed to Beaton’s “really poor officiating” and claimed “the game was refereed outside the field”.

Beaton had called referee Don Robertson to the monitor, leading to Yang Hyun-jun’s yellow card being upgraded to a red.

Tomoki Iwata then conceded a penalty for Hearts’ opener after the ball struck the midfielder’s arm.

Willie Collum will be the fourth official at Ibrox, while Nick Walsh will be on VAR duty assisted by Frank Connor.

Reigning champions Celtic cross Glasgow leading by a point but having played one game more than Philippe Clement’s hosts.

Outlining the “Momentum” and “Belief” that Celtic Injury Returns Bring

Celtic have had a plethora of injury issues throughout the current season. It feels as though right now is the only time the Hoops have had a near enough fully fit squad in the campaign.

Reo Hatate returned from a lengthy spell out at the weekend and put in a masterful performance. He provided a timely reminder to fans just what he can provide with a standout display.

Luis Palma will be back in time for this weekend’s Glasgow derby going by Brendan Rodgers’ words last Friday, but the manager has a big decision to make regarding Callum McGregor.

The skipper will return to training this week, and he will be assessed by the boss. Having a player as influential as McGregor back for arguably the biggest game of the season would provide the Hoops with a monumental boost.

Indeed, assistant boss John Kennedy thinks that the increasing number of injury returns is only serving to improve Celtic. “Coming into this run-in, when you start to get all your players back in the group, it definitely makes us stronger”, he told CeltsAreHere.

“You can sense that. It gives us more belief and more momentum to go into the important part of the season.”

The next eight (potentially nine) games will define Celtic’s season. It is crunch time in the title race and with a growing number of squad availabilities, The Bhoys rightly have an increasing sense of encouragement.

O’Rourke Exclusive: Celtic ready to activate clause & sign ‘Huge’ player

Celtic plan to sign on-loan star Paulo Bernardo permanently this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

Well-placed sources told Football Insider (30 March) that the Hoops want to develop Bernardo, 22, with a view to selling him for a “huge” profit in the future.

Celtic remained top of the league after their win against the Lions on Sunday afternoon.

They are next set to face arch-rivals Rangers in a huge Old Firm showdown at Ibrox on Sunday (7 April).

Big Celtic and Rangers title race prediction by Artur Boruc

It’s a brave person to be calling the outcome of the Scottish Premiership title race between Celtic and Rangers at this stage of proceedings.

There are still eight games to go until the end of the campaign, including two big derbies at Ibrox and Celtic Park.

With just a couple of points separating the fierce rivals, it’s honestly hard to confidently say which way the silverware will be heading this year.

There’s a few more twists and turns left in this one and the evidence suggests Celtic will be pushed all the way, perhaps even to the final matchday.

Artur Boruc has never been one to shy away from an opinion, however, and he has firmly determined that Celtic will once again be champions this season.

Artur Boruc believes Celtic will beat Rangers to the title

The iconic goalkeeper has been speaking to The Sunday Post this weekend and declared: “The main objective of every season is to win the title and Celtic know it is in their own hands.

“I know it is very close and there is little between Celtic and Rangers in terms of points. But, overall, I think the better squad is at Celtic. They also have a number of players there who’ve won the Scottish Premiership title.

“Brendan Rodgers has also delivered lots of success in the past and I think he will do it again. I’m confident Celtic will be champions in May to make it three in a row. I’ll be happy for everyone inside Celtic Park and all of the supporters for that to happen.”

Celtic have certainly had the better of the meetings between the two sides this season so in a head-to-head battle we know the Bhoys can come out on top. The two remaining derbies could well provide a knockout blow if either side is defeated.

After the top six split, Brendan Rodgers’ side have three games at home and two away, in contrast to Rangers’ three away and two at home.

But we also know that the Bhoys have to go on a winning run that has been rare this season. Consistency is key but if Celtic do find that then there’s logic to the belief they will defend their crown.

South Korea Make Yang U-turn; Key Celtic Decision Lies Ahead

Despite admitting he will have to make contingency plans regarding winger Yang, the boss of South Korea’s under-23s has included the wide-man in his squad for the upcoming Olympics qualifiers (RecordSport).

Hwang Sun-hong recently announced his team. He said: [RecordSport] “The Olympic qualifying tournament will be a difficult one. We’ll have to be prepared for that. If we don’t get our European-based players, we will have to come up with a Plan B.”

Such a move comes as a surprise, and it throws a spanner into Celtic’s works. Indeed, the club has no right to let the winger go and play for his nation next month because the international window is not in FIFA’s official schedule.

Yang, though, has been named in a 23-man South Korean squad that will face the United Arab Emirates, China, and Japan in their hopes of qualifying for the Summer Olympics in Paris.

Inevitably, the upcoming matches clash with a few Celtic ones. Yang could miss St. Mirren at home on the 13th of April, Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup semi-finals a week later, and some post-split games if he jets off.

Celtic, though, has no obligation to let him go and must make the key decision of whether to sanction his brief absence or ensure Yang stays in Glasgow for what is a crucial run-in.

Brendan Rodgers breaks Celtic silence over SFA ban as he doubles down on one key claim

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers insists he has no regrets over his post-match rant against Hearts that landed him in hot water with the SFA.

Rodgers was hit with a one-game ban with one suspended for a breach of SFA Disciplinary Rule 72 following the defeat at Tynecastle as he called out referee Don Robertson and John Beaton in the VAR room for the controversial decisions to send off Yang and award a penalty to the Jambos following a handball from Tomoki Iwata. He will not be in the dugout for Sunday’s showdown with Livingston – but is clear to return to the touchline for the showdown with Rangers.

Speaking on the punishment dished out by the Hampden beaks for the first time, the Celtic boss: “We are obviously disappointed, but we respect the decision. My thanks go to the club for their unwavering support but we respect our punishment and we move on.”

It is already shaping up to be a pretty substantial summer for reigning Scottish Premiership champions Celtic. 

Brendan Rodgers will need a new goalkeeper with Joe Hart’s retirement imminent. The departure of Alexandro Bernabei leaves the club short on natural left-sided full-backs too. There is also a decision to make about Adam Idah, the Norwich City loanee impressing on loan but a permanent deal uncertain at this stage.

Celtic may also find themselves dipping into the market for another central midfielder as well. Particularly if Paulo Bernardo returns to Benfica, and The Hoops receive an offer they simply cannot refuse for the much-admired Matt O’Riley.

Ardon Jashari will not be around to step into those shoes should O’Riley leave, however. A midfielder who has been linked on and off with Celtic for over 12 months now appears to have got a move sewn up already, with two months of the season still remaining.

Celtic target on the verge of £4 million-plus transfer

Jashari, according to Het Nieuwsblad and Het Laaste Nieuws, will make the transition from FC Luzern in his native Switzerland to Belgian giants Club Brugge.

Brugge, who are keen to hire Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy as their new head coach, are reportedly paying a fee in excess of £4 million for the Luzern captain. Jashari is expected to have his official unveiling at the Jan Breydel Stadium sooner rather than later.

This, then, brings an end to any suggestion that Jashari, who featured for Switzerland at the Qatar World Cup and has been likened to Jude Bellingham due to his box-to-box capabilities, could once again find himself under consideration by a Celtic side who’s recruitment department has come in for some heavy criticism since Rodgers’ return.

Jashari, still only 21, has also been linked with Arsenal and Leeds United in recent transfer windows.

Big summer looming for Brendan Rodgers

“Jashari has a personality that qualifies him as a leader. You rarely see that at this age,” explains scout Oliver Zesiger, drawing comparisons between the youngster and Bayer Leverkusen’s former Arsenal skipper Granit Xhaka.

“Physically, Granit is stronger. (But) both players can move the ball in progression. In addition, the two are good at reading a game and winning the ball back. If things continue, then he’ll definitely end up at a club in one of the top five leagues (in Europe).”

A spell at Club Brugge could be the first step on that journey.

HITC, meanwhile, understands that Celtic’s number one goalkeeper target is Liverpool’s Coaimhin Kelleher. The Glasgow giants have also watched Trabzonspor captain Ugurcan Cakir.

Liel Abada praises Celtic as “amazing” in a recent interview.

Those outside Celtic who have been hoping Liel Abada will speak ill of the club and his time there will be disappointed again this morning.

The former Celtic winger who left in a big-money move to Charlotte FC has been glowing in his praise of the club. His farewell message to fans was very emotional and poignant. He also admitted leaving Celtic was never the plan.

CeltsAreHere is aware that there was nobody at the club who wanted to push Liel out and actively supported him during a tough time. The crux of the issue came from Celtic supporters’ vocal and visible support of Palestine. From what we can gather, Liel was heavily pushed to leave Celtic because of that by those back in Israel.

It was a burden a young, talented footballer should never have had on his shoulders. However, the pressure was there and Liel took the best decision he could for himself.

As he gets ready to take on the new challenge at Charlotte he was caught for a quick interview at the airport by an Israeli broadcaster who again tried to bring up his Celtic exit.

Liel spoke about the homesickness at times, but over and above that, he branded his time at Celtic as amazing.

He told Sport 1: “It was really not easy being far away, but I had time with my family and friends now to see everyone. I had an amazing time at Celtic and now my head is on a new journey.

“I hope I can represent the country with respect. I had some time now with family and friends and now I’m embarking on a new journey.”

On life at Charlotte, Abada added: “The feelings are very good. I’m waiting to get there and meet everyone and start my journey.”

Liel came in under Ange Postecoglou and has written his little piece of Celtic history by playing his part in what is now the infamous February night Glasgow derby under the lights, where a new Celtic emerged from the rubble of the previous season.

We wish Liel nothing but the best for the future.

Officials named for Celtic’s trip to Livingston, referee in place amid recent VAR debacle

Celtic travel to Livingston this Sunday and will be keen to maintain their lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership table.

Brendan Rodgers’ men sit one point ahead of Rangers at the summit and could put themselves in pole position ahead of the Glasgow Derby by claiming three points against David Martindale’s outfit.

In our three meetings with the Lions this term, Celtic have prevailed. Nevertheless, there were some uncomfortable moments in our 4-2 victory a couple of weeks ago, where late goals from Daizen Maeda and Kyogo Furuhashi sealed our passage to the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup.

Livingston come into this one without a win in five matches, though Rodgers and company will be all too aware of the threat they pose on their much-maligned artificial surface.

Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate and Liam Scales could all return to contention for the tie, which fans without tickets can take in live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football, with pre-match build-up commenting from 11 am [Sky Sports].

Kick-off is at 12 noon, setting the scene for a day where Celtic have little margin for error in their battle for the title.

 

Don Robertson appointed referee for Livingston vs Celtic

The headline to emerge ahead of Livingston vs Celtic is the news that Don Robertson has been appointed to referee the affair despite his involvement in our controversial 2-0 defeat away to Heart of Midlothian at Tynecastle earlier this month [Scottish FA official website].

Hyunjun Yang received a red card for a high challenge on Alex Cochrane, though only after Robertson upgraded the decision to a straight dismissal in the wake of an intervention from VAR.

Tomoki Iwata was also penalised for a handball offence in bizarre circumstances that allowed Hearts to open the scoring, which the 37-year-old awarded after consultation with John Beaton, not to go over old ground too much.

Graeme Stewart and Andy Milne will run either line; meanwhile, Euan Anderson is the fourth official on this occasion. VAR is set to be controlled by Alan Muir and Graeme Leslie in case any incidents require further observation.

In a week where Celtic manager Rodgers finds himself in the dock for an SFA charge amid his comments on the officiating in the capital, let’s hope the football will be the main talking point at the Tony Macaroni Arena.

Rangers vs Celtic lands Super Sunday top billing as it leads Man Utd showpiece

Rangers’ crunch title derby against Celtic next month will top the Sky Sports billing on Super Sunday.

The Ibrox outfit take on their fierce rivals knowing the winners of that game will be in a strong position to lift the trophy at the end of the season with not all that long to go by way of fixtures remaining. Philippe Clement’s troops are in fine form albeit one point behind Brendan Rodgers’ with a game in hand after their Dundee clash was postponed until three days after the derby.

The battle is scheduled for midday on April 7 with no match scheduled in Sky’s traditional 1.30pm slot. That means it’s the Premiership blockbuster that will lead football fans into the 3.30pm game at Old Trafford between Manchester United and Liverpool.

The usual EPL double header won’t be in place and that should mean more eyes on Scotland’s big one.

Chris Sutton delivers exciting Celtic assessment

Celtic’s injury problems this season have been extensive.

Although there has been valid criticism of transfer activity, player performance and the job Brendan Rodgers has done since returning to the club – it is undeniable that the injuries and fitness have played a big part in how the season has turned out.

Now though, the skies are clearing on that front and former striker Chris Sutton reckons Rodgers is closing in on getting his best eleven on the pitch – just in time for the league and cup double push.

The Bhoys have a maximum of ten games left in the season. That’s eight Scottish Premiership fixtures plus a semi-final and a potential final in the Scottish Cup.

Despite all the chatter and issues this term, Celtic can still go on and complete the double. Can the returning players fire them to glory?

Chris Sutton on Celtic returns

Sutton thinks it’s a possibility, writing in the Daily Record [23/03 print edition]: “Keep Kyogo on form, keep Cameron Carter-Vickers fit and add that midfield trio [of Hatate, McGregor and O’Riley] and Rodgers could go into the final two months with as powerful a selection hand as he’s held all term.

“Potentially, if Celtic can get through the Scottish Cup semi-final against Aberdeen, there are 10 games left in their season. Every single one of them promises to be massive and it is going to take big game players.

“Having them all his disposal through until the end of May would be perfect timing for him. The equation is pretty simple for Celtic. Win all 10 of those remaining games starting at Livingston next weekend and the Premiership and Scottish Cup double is theirs.

“It’s a big period and it calls for stars who can make it happen. Hatate and McGregor are two who can shine more than any in the country.”

Hatate ramped up his recovery from injury by featuring for a half in a recent bounce game at Lennoxtown which bodes well for his involvement after the international break.

He could get minutes away to Livingston before being included in some capacity against Rangers at Ibrox.

McGregor is also expected to be back shortly after the current break, though his return date is a little more nebulous at this point.

If Celtic can truly put these injury issues behind them at this critical stage of the season, going on a ten-game winning-streak isn’t out of the equation. And that’s something to be excited about.

Reo Hatate times Celtic return for title run in as bounce game tester tees him up for Rangers tussle

Reo Hatate has stepped up his Celtic return for the title race run in with 45 minutes in a bounce game.

The Japanese hasn’t played featured since the winter break after suffering a double calf injury while away on Asian Cup duty with Japan. In his absence, the champions saw their lead at the top of the Premiership table evaporate as Rangers overtook them, but have since regained top spot after beating St Johnstone at the weekend while Gers trip to Dundee was a washout and will be played next month.

And Hatate could be back in business by then after playing 45 minutes in a scratch game against St Mirren at the Hoops’ Lennoxtown training base on Wednesday. Assuming he suffers no adverse reaction to playing in the 2-2 draw with the Buddies, then he could well be in Brendan Rodgers’ squad for their return to domestic action away to Livingston a week on Sunday.

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Imagine if that was a Celtic handball yesterday

Brendan Rodgers now has the perfect evidence to present at his SFA hearing…

Yesterday’s game at Celtic Park against St Johnstone was filled with yet more VAR controversy. Despite us winning the game in a comfortable fashion we still had a few legitimate complaints when it came to the much maligned technology.

None more so than the incident in the first half with the game still goalless when a St Johnstone player seemed to block a shot on the goal line with his elbow. Yes the elbow is part of the arm as far as I know, and despite it going to a VAR review it was deemed legitimate! “No handball” was their verdict.

It doesn’t matter that he didn’t know anything about it as it was going in the net, yes the player stopped a net bound shot with a part of his arm. Surely within the rules of the game that is a penalty kick?

Remember last season when we conceded two spot kicks at home to Dundee United and Ross County? Case one was for the ball hitting Alexandro Bernabei on the back of the arm when he didn’t know anything about it.

In the second instance it was Matt O’Riley being penalised for the ball bouncing off his arm just inside the box. Both incidents were sent to VAR and adjudged to be penalties. You can see our frustration.

Our biggest gripe though is the Tomoki Iwata incident at Tynecastle just a fortnight ago. The ball accidentally hits his arm after he was nudged by his own teammate just inside the penalty area. Nowhere near the goal I may add, and yet the VAR team adjudged it to be worthy of a spot kick. He was facing the other way. His eyes were closed. He was barged in the bag as three players jumped for the ball.  He had zero knowledge that the penalty was give for his hand-ball offence and only found out in the dressing room at half time.

This is where it gets interesting. Brendan Rodgers is up in front of the SFA on a charge of making remarks about the officials, namely John Beaton. Brendan’s only ‘crime’ was calling Beaton ‘incompetent’ well that’s mild to what most of us have called him, but Brendan has now got evidence of his own now to put before the beaks.

Exhibit A your honour. “Incompetence has many meanings and one of them is that you aren’t doing your job efficiently or correctly. Before me I have footage of an incident at our last game, an incident similar to the one I have been accused of calling for clarity on.

“The footage shows said incident much more punishable according to the laws of the game, yet it was judged by the officials after having a quick look to be a ‘legal’ act.

“The incident that caused me to be up before you was in a similar if not lesser instance, yet I have been charged for making that point. Yes I called the official in question incompetent, but judging by this footage and the rules of the game doesn’t that make said official incompetent as he clearly went against the rules of the game?

“Either that or the officials on Saturday are guilty of incompetence and went against the rules of the game. So which is it to be your honour? Case closed.”

Another point, had that been a Celtic player, say the unfortunate Tomoki Iwata, standing on the Celtic goal-line with the ball hitting him in exactly the same spot…it goes to VAR for a review, their decision and the outcome would have been one of two alternatives:

1. No penalty, no handball as was the outcome yesterday
2. Penalty to St Johnstone and a red card for the Celtic player, with a one match ban. Celtic’s subsequent failed appeal would see that double to a two match ban.

Which option do you think VAR would have reached yesterday had it been a ball to arm situation on the Celtic goal-line preventing a St Johnstone goal?

Just an Ordinary Bhoy