Celtic F.C [Sitemap] - Digital Kaos

gazz10

10th April, 2008, 07:25 PM

Strachan defends his side's play

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan believes that his side deserve to be in the Scottish Cup semi-finals and closer to league leaders Rangers.

"Overall, there's absolutely no doubt that we should have won our last five games," he told Celtic View.

"Anyone with any sense of fairness would agree with that.

"That's not skipping around anything. I'm having difficulty explaining the results to players and they are all sitting scratching their heads."

Celtic have won just one of their last seven games - a 3-0 defeat of relegated Gretna.

And the reigning champions have slipped seven points behind Rangers in the Scottish Premier League and suffered a cup exit at the hands of Aberdeen.

It has led to calls from a section of the Celtic support for Strachan to leave the club, despite him having led them to two titles in a row.

But Strachan gave no indication that he was giving up the fight.

"The consoling factor for me at the moment is that I can go on to the training ground on a Monday and say, 'I like working with you guys. You are all good football players and you are doing a lot of things right'," he said.

"Unfortunately, at this moment in time, we're not winning games."

Strachan's side will seek revenge for Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Motherwell when the same opponents arrive at Celtic Park on Sunday.

Rangers dropped points themselves in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Dundee United last weekend.

"The other result made it worse for me," said Strachan.

"I don't take any consolation from that fact that we aren't as far behind as we could have been."

Tizzer22

10th April, 2008, 07:35 PM

Burnley on red alert over Derek Riordan

BURNLEY have been put on high alert as Derek Riordan's Celtic career looks to be all but over.

The former Hibernian striker was locked in showdown talks with Bhoys boss Gordon Strachan last night at the club's Lennoxtown HQ after comments he made before the weekend's defeat against Motherwell, and for failing to play a club fine.

The 25-year-old was quoted as saying he has "virtually chucked it" at Celtic and accused Strachan of "talking rubbish". He also FROM BACK PAGE reported Celtic to PFA Scotland for trying to fine him ?1000 for failing to attend a supporters rally.

But he looks set to be fined for his outburst in the media and released from Celtic, which will interest Clarets boss Owen Coyle.

Coyle tried to bring Riordan, who has made just 13 starts and 19 sub appearances in the green and white hoops, to Turf Moor during the January transfer window.

The Clarets made a ?400,000, plus add-ons, bid for the Scottish international at the end of January but were thwarted after it was revealed that Strachan wanted closer to ?1million for him.
advertisement

But after events in recent weeks, Riordan looks set for a move and Burnley would surely be interested.

Tizzer22

10th April, 2008, 07:38 PM

Celtic ace eyes SPL miracle

Celtic striker Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink is still hopeful his side can overhaul Rangers in the Scottish Premier League title race – because he has seen with Holland that the impossible can happen.

Gordon Strachan’s side are seven points behind Rangers, who have a game in hand going into the final month of the season.

But Vennegoor of Hesselink, having been part of a friendly international which saw Holland recover from 3-0 down to defeat Austria last month, is still keeping the faith.

He said: “A lot of things can happen in football and if you had been at the game in Vienna you would never have thought Holland could have won.

“But everything changed in one moment. I’m sure, and I hope, that can happen with Celtic in the league.

“We’re in a different situation because for the last couple of years Celtic have been the club who have been chased. Now we’re chasing. We can’t close our eyes to how difficult that is but it’s important to think positively. For example, I think the split will be good for Celtic. We’ll be playing teams who want to play football.

“I mean no disrespect to teams from the bottom half of the league but it will be good for us to play teams who want to play good football. Hopefully it will lead to a nice end to the season.”

Tizzer22

10th April, 2008, 07:41 PM

McGhee To Hearts...Or Celtic?!

There have been rumours linking Motherwell's Mark McGhee with the vacant manager's job at Tynecastle for quite a few months now and once again the mill would appear to be in overdrive on this particular subject.

There would appear to be two different rumours going around in relation to the Hearts job that almost everyone seems to have heard: one of them is that Craig Levein will be returning if Romanov & co agree to his demands that he can pick his own backroom coaching team and be given the assurances over his power to control everyone that a manager should.

However this seems to have died down a bit lately, with many people feeling that Levein is unlikely to give up his rather 'cushy' position at Tannadice to throw himself into the relative circus-like surroundings of Tynecastle.

The latest chat seems to be that McGhee coming to the club is a 'done deal' (isn't it always?!), with the only potential spanner in the works coming if Celtic decide to show an interest in their former striker if they get rid of Gordon Strachan.

I must admit that the latter does sound awfully like the 150 or so other rumours we've heard in recent times with regards to the Hearts manager that haven't come to fruition, but surely one of them has to eventually be right?!

McGhee certainly is a realistic target for Hearts. He's a guy who definitely still has a lot to prove in terms of consistently good performance as a manager with a biggish club . He seems to have done quite well at most places he's been initially, but has tended to find it difficult sustaining this. I've been impressed by what I've seen of him and his team so far this season, in particular his articulate handling of the media, which is something that is of the utmost importance when it comes to this sort of position in football these days. But you also have to be able to do more than merely talk a good game.

To be honest although Strachan is under pressure at Celtic, even if he is given the elbow I'd doubt very much if McGhee would be their top choice to replace him. It would be true to say that he has a bit of history with Celtic so that would make him instantly more popular with a support who tend to want their managers to be 'one of them' than the ginger whinger, but I'm not convinced that he has the necessary managerial credentials to go there - certainly not yet anyway. I'd have thought someone like former Hibs manager Tony Mowbray would be a more likely target for them. But you never know.

I certainly wouldn't be too disappointed if Hearts ended up with Mark McGhee in the summer. Given what's gone before you'd almost take anyone who resembles a 'conventional' manager for the sake of some sanity, but I couldn't ever see McGhee standing for the sort of rubbish that the likes of Ivanauskas and Frail have, so if he was unveiled I'd like to be cautiously optimistic that he'd been given the assurances we'd all expect a Hearts manager to have.

Tizzer22

11th April, 2008, 06:21 PM

kick-off time confirmed for old firm clash

THE Scottish Premier League has confirmed the kick-off time for the April 27 meeting with Rangers at Celtic Park.

The top of the table clash will kick-off at 12.30pm on Sunday April 27.

Tizzer22

11th April, 2008, 06:23 PM

Celtic fans can boo me all they want, insists defiant Strachan

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan says he is happy to be booed by the Parkhead fans because he is convinced the Scottish champions can still turn their season around.

Last weekend's 1-0 home defeat to Motherwell means Celtic now trail Rangers by seven points in the race for the title having played a game more than Walter Smith's team.

And, towards the end of the Motherwell defeat on Saturday, one section of the Celtic support turned on Strachan, putting huge pressure on the manager ahead if this Sunday's repeat fixture at Fir Park.

But Strachan insists he isn't worried about the crowd's reaction.

"It's understandable," he said. "When people are scared they react in different ways and that's understandable.

"I don't have any beef with that."

Strachan also claimed his side's recent poor results were down to "freak circumstances" and, as in recent weeks, he trotted out a set of statistics to back up his theory.

He said: "In the five games we have played recently, the total attempts on target from our opponents has been six, possibly seven.

"For Motherwell's goal last week, Artur Boruc saved the first shot and the other guy put it in, so that can be one or two shots, whatever you want.

"If you count it as one shot, then that's six shots against us in five games. People will say that's only statistics but people throw statistics against us.

"Three of the shots went into the net which means Artur has only had three saves to make in five games.

"If you had a defensive coach, he would be more than happy with that. It's just freaky circumstances at the moment.

"The big statistic is not scoring enough goals but we are good enough to know that once we start scoring goals then you will look at the performances as being terrific.

"We just need to start scoring goals and once we score goals, the world becomes a different place.?

Tizzer22

11th April, 2008, 06:26 PM

Manager wants goals against Motherwell

GORDON Strachan will urge his players to stick to the game plan and get the goals that will make the difference in this weekend?s league meeting with Motherwell.

The players will go into the game at Fir Park on Sunday determined to make amends for last weekend?s 1-0 defeat at Celtic Park and keep their title defence alive as the league enters the final furlong.

Describing Celtic?s recent run of ?form? as freakish, the manager explained that his players have done everything but find the back of the net in their past couple of games, defending well and creating chances and he commented: ?Our performance in the first half last week was excellent, in the second half we had enough chances there to score goals.

?In the five games we have played recently, when the results haven?t gone so well, the total attempts on target, between the five teams, is six, possibly seven.

?The six or seven is Motherwell?s goal where Artur saved it and the rebound got put in, so that might be one or two shots depending on how you look at it. But if you count it as one, that?s six shots on target in five games.

?People will say that?s only stats, but people throw stats up against us with our performances,? he added.

?There have been six shots on target, three have gone in the net and that means Artur?s only had three saves to make in five games, so if you have a defensive coach I think he?d be more than happy with that. It?s just freaky circumstances at the moment.?

Pondering Celtic?s profligacy in front of goal, the manager explained that the team selection was obviously in his thoughts for Sunday but added that he will not be forced into a knee-jerk reaction.

He said: ?We just need to start scoring goals and once we start doing that, the world becomes a different place.

?It would only be a reward for what the players are trying to do,? he added. ?We want to score goals and once we start scoring goals again, the players will feel more confident in front of goal.

?The priority is scoring goals and once we do that, we will win games and we?ll take it from there.

?It?s a big stat, scoring goals. In terms of the big picture we are happy with a lot of things, but the big stat is not scoring enough goals.

?We know that and we also know that we when we start scoring, we are producing the performance and people will say, ?that?s a terrific performance?.?

The signs have so far been good in training at Lennoxtown, with team spirit and general morale high in the face of the recent defeats and the players determined to get back to winning ways on Sunday.

?Training?s been good and we?ve enjoyed it,? the manager concluded. ?We?ve had one or two wee things to work on but it?s been good. The weather?s been not too bad either, which is good.

?I always get a good reaction from this squad, win, lose or draw and the reaction would only be to the result and not to the performance, because the performance was more than enough to win many a game.

?So if you are talking about a reaction to a result, they should be alright. But they don?t need to react to the performance because it was good enough to win many games.?

Tizzer22

11th April, 2008, 06:28 PM

Naylor says the League is what matters most

Defender Lee Naylor insists he has no problem with Rangers adding the UEFA Cup and Scottish Cup to their League Cup trophy win this season as long as Celtic retain their Clydesdale Bank Premier League title.

Rangers' 2-0 win over Sporting Lisbon on Thursday night took them through to a UEFA Cup semi-final against Fiorentina - their first European semi-final in 36 years - and keeps them on course to win four trophies this season.

Walter Smith's side are seven points ahead of the Hoops in the title race with a game in hand.

And with the League Cup already in the bag, the Light Blues face Partick Thistle in the Scottish Cup quarter-final replay on Sunday as favourites to make it through to the semi-finals against another Irn-Bru First Division side, St Johnstone.

Asked if he would accept Rangers winning the Scottish Cup and the UEFA Cup if Celtic could retain their title, Naylor said: "Absolutely.

"The league is very important to us. If they go and win them, fair play to them.

"But we are not in them, we are trying to win this league.

"Fair play to them, they are doing their stuff, but we've got to look at what we've got to do."

Naylor, looking forward to playing Motherwell at Fir Park on Sunday following their 1-0 defeat by the Steelmen last week, added: "Everyone is pulling together and it's important that everyone does that.

"We are all trying to do the right thing, we are trying to win games.

"We could have done with a game in midweek but there you go, we just need to try and win this game."

gazz10

12th April, 2008, 12:16 PM

Motherwell v Celtic (Sun)

Motherwell pair David Clarkson and Bob Malcolm are suspended but the home team have no injury worries.

Clarkson completes a two-match ban and Malcolm is out for one game following his red card in the 1-0 win at Celtic Park last weekend.

Celtic midfielder Scott Brown begins a three-match ban at Fir Park.

Striker Derek Riordan, who is at loggerheads with the club over a ?1,000 fine, is unlikely to be included in the visitors' squad.

Victory for the defending SPL champions would move them four points behind leaders Rangers, although the Ibrox side will have two games in hand.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Motherwell (from): G Smith, Quinn, Hammell, Craigan, Reynolds, Lasley, Hughes, Fitzpatrick, Lappin, Porter, McCormack, D Smith, Murphy, Archdeacon, Daniels, McGarry, McLean, Maguire.

Celtic (from): Boruc, Hinkel, Caldwell, McManus, Naylor, Nakamura, Donati, Robson, McGeady, McDonald, Samaras, Vennegoor of Hesselink, M Brown, Wilson, Sno, Hartley, Hutchinson, Killen.

gazz10

12th April, 2008, 12:18 PM

Tizzer22

13th April, 2008, 06:15 PM

Celtic return to winning ways

Motherwell 1 Celtic 4:A Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink double in a 4-1 win over Motherwell at Fir Park breathed fresh life into Celtic's Clydesdale Bank Premier League title hopes ahead of the Old Firm clash on Wednesday.

Stephen McManus and Scott McDonald also notched for the visitors with Well's consolation strike coming when McManus helped a Ross McCormack shot into his own net.

Motherwell had won 1-0 at Parkhead last Saturday but there was no danger of a repeat.

The visitors looked determined to win straight from the first whistle and although they were pegged back in the first half after McManus had given them a 16th-minute lead, they ran out convincing winners in the end.

The victory closed the gap on SPL leaders Rangers to four points and although the Ibrox side have two games in hand, Gordon Strachan's side have the chance to put the pressure on with a win at Celtic Park in midweek.

The first chance of the game came in the ninth minute when Hoops midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura put McDonald in at the right-hand side of the Motherwell box.

The former Fir Park player cut inside Well defender Steven Hammell to set up a shooting opportunity from 14 yards out but sliced his shot wide of the far post.

The visitors looked more dangerous and in the 16th minute they took the lead through skipper McManus.

Celtic defender Gary Caldwell challenged Motherwell goalkeeper Graeme Smith for the ball after Nakamura had played in a free-kick, the ball spun high in the air and McManus climbed among a clutch of bodies to bundle it over the line from about a yard out.

Moments later, with the Fir Park defence missing, McDonald missed a sitter when he misdirected his header wide of the target from only six yards out.

But in the 23rd minute the home side levelled when McCormack broke on the counter-attack.

With the Celtic defence stretched, the former Rangers player played a one-two with Well midfielder Stephen Hughes, moved into the Hoops penalty area and beat Parkhead goalkeeper Artur Boruc with his angled shot and McManus could only help the ball into the net.

McCormack was booked for his over-exuberant celebrations but the game soon turned back in Celtic's favour.

In the 29th minute, Nakamura's cross was headed up in the air by Fir Park stopper Stephen Craigan and McDonald's volley from 12 yards took a deflection off Mark Reynolds to beat Smith at his near post.

Three minutes before the interval Celtic extended their lead with the minimum of fuss when Vennegoor of Hesselink bulleted Barry Robson's corner past Smith from eight yards out.

The points looked safe for Celtic as the interval whistle sounded and after the break it was Smith who was called into action almost immediately when he had to tip a powerful McDonald drive over the bar for a corner.

The home side defended the set-piece and raced up to the other end where McCormack sent a 25-yard volley inches past the post.

But Celtic were well on top and they stretched their lead further in the 56th minute when Vennegoor of Hesselink pounced on a loose ball 12 yards from goal and volleyed high into the net past Smith.

Motherwell looked a shadow of the side which had defended so resolutely at Celtic Park eight days previously as the visitors looked quicker, stronger and more determined in most areas.

Boruc was forced into a good save when Hughes ended a fine driving run by unleashing a shot from the edge of the box.

While there seemed no prospect of Celtic letting their three-goal cushion slip, Motherwell continued to search for a glimmer of hope but were denied again when McCormack's free-kick from 25 yards was comfortably gathered by Boruc.

The match petered out and it was Celtic who bounded off the pitch at the end knowing a win against Rangers at home on Wednesday could give them a championship lifeline

Tizzer22

14th April, 2008, 11:20 AM

Hartley: Celtic spirit never in doubt

Celtic midfielder Paul Hartley has told Setanta Sports that despite recent results harmony within the team was never lacking, it was just goals and victories that highlighted the ?problem?.

Celtic bounced back at Motherwell on Sunday, winning 4-1 to keep their slim hopes of landing the SPL title alive.

The Bhoys still have it all to do to catch Rangers, but Hartley insists the squad have always remained together despite criticism.

?We?ve always had the team spirit,? Hartley told Setanta Sports. ?It?s just the results that haven?t gone our way in the past few weeks, we?ve been playing well enough but not scoring any goals.

?Sunday?s result was a really good team performance you could see the spirit was always there, but we took our chances today with some great set pieces.?

There were no complaints from the former Hearts player about the pitch and in fact he reckons Celtic actually played well considering the state of the surface.

Hartley added: ?I thought we played well, especially on a difficult surface, it was very bobbly but we managed to get the ball down and try and pass it and we took our chances at the right time.?

After the recent goal drought, the Celtic players were more than relieved as the celebrations showed with every passing goal, and Hartley agreed it was crucial that the game had to be won not just for the points, but with an Old Firm clash very much on the players? minds as well.

?Yeah we had to win the game it was as simple as that,? Hartley said. ?We managed to do that and we have another tough game on Wednesday night.

?We go into that game with a lot of confidence now.?

Three points for Celtic on Wednesday night will narrow the gap even further on Rangers but again Hartley was looking beyond that clash on Wednesday.

Hartley added: ?We have to win every game till the end of the season, so we will see where it takes us but Old Firm games are always difficult.

?We played well in the last one but didn?t manage to get the result, but hopefully we can get the right result on Wednesday.?

Tizzer22

16th April, 2008, 10:01 AM

Samaras rules out City return

Georgios Samaras has confirmed he has no intention of heading back to Manchester City when his loan spell at Celtic draws to a close.

The Greece forward has made a decent impression at Celtic and has boosted his chances of making it to Euro 2008 during his loan spell.

Samaras is undecided on whether to remain at Celtic, but has made it clear he will not be heading back to Eastlands.

"I'm glad I'm here at Celtic, trying to help me to the European Championship in the summer," he said.

"That is why I want them to help them win the title but what will happen in the summer, I don't know.

"All I know is I won't be going back to Manchester City. That is for sure. I don't want to go back there.

"I am happy just now but in the future I want to be the first striker at the club.

"The manager has to tell me I will be one of his first-choice strikers.

"After the summer we will sit round the table and see what happens. Staying at Celtic is my first choice but only time will tell."

Tizzer22

16th April, 2008, 10:05 AM

Celtic face Rangers in crucial Old Firm derby

Celtic will be hoping to get their SPL title challenge back on track when they face Rangers in an Old Firm derby tonight.

The Hoops are currently four points behind the league leaders, who also have two games in hand.

Victory tonight would give Rangers a seemingly unassailable advantage, but Celtic boss Gordon Strachan is refusing to concede the title, even his side loses the game.

Tizzer22

16th April, 2008, 10:23 AM

Celtic, Werder Bremen join Bosman battle for Le Mans star Daisuke Matsui

Le Mans winger Daisuke Matsui will have the pick of clubs when he comes off contract in June.

The Japan international is courting interest from Lazio, Genoa, Wolfsburg, Werder Bremen and Celtic - among others - as he prepares to leave France in the summer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nuHiX2VxAfI&feature=related

allycoops

16th April, 2008, 10:34 AM

Tizzer22

17th April, 2008, 10:15 AM

Revealed: Who was red and yellow carded and why after the final whistle to a volatile Old Firm derby

Scotland team-mates David Weir and Gary Caldwell were both red-carded after the final whistle at Parkhead as stars from both sides fought on the pitch and clashed in the tunnel.

Sportsmail can reveal Weir was red-carded for violent conduct and will be banned for Sunday's Scottish Cup semi-final against St Johnstone. Caldwell was sent off, also for violent conduct, and is out of Saturday's SPL game with Aberdeen.

And Celtic captain Stephen McManus was yellow-carded in the tunnel for 'adopting a threatening attitude'.

Tempers snapped as the final whistle blew, with Nacho Novo and Aiden McGeady involved and Weir and Caldwell grappling as well as the two club captains, Barry Ferguson and McManus.

The belated punishments took the overall crime count to three reds and five yellows on a night of astonishing drama in what was Clark's last ever Old Firm encounter.

Steven Naismith didn't even kick a ball all night, yet was booked for taking his celebrations too far after Nacho Novo had cancelled out Shunsuke Nakamura's opener.

The only man to see red during the 90 minutes was Carlos Cuellar, who handled Nakamura's net-bound drive in the second half, giving Clark his easiest decision of the night.

And the SFA will this morning open investigations into a second-half incident when Rangers team medical officer, Dr Paul Jackson, was struck by a missile as he treated goalkeeper Allan McGregor.

Tizzer22

17th April, 2008, 10:18 AM

Celtic Transfer News

On the back of a great win over rivals Rangers last night at Parkhead, Celtic are already looking to strengthen for next year?s campaign with possible moves for Spanish midfielder Moises Hurtado and Japanese winger Daisuke Matsui in the summer.

Celtic have been linked with experienced Espanyol defensive midfielder Moises Hurtado, who recently just signed a contract extension with the Barcelona based side. Hurtado is well known to Scottish football fans as the player who was sent off for two bookable offences in the UEFA Cup Final at Hampden Park in 2007.

Le Mans winger Daisuke Matsui has laso been linked with a move to Celtic in the summer, although they will have stiff competition in the guise of Werder Bremen, Genoa, Lazio and Wolfsburg as his contract ends in the summer with the French side. The major factors that may clinch the deal for Celtic is not money or the quality of football in the SPL- but Champions League Football and the prospect of playing with fellow Japanese international team mates Shunsuke Nakamura and Koki Mizuno.

gazz10

22nd April, 2008, 10:23 AM

McGeady wins Player of Year award

Celtic's Aiden McGeady has been voted both Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year by his fellow Scottish professionals.

The midfielder, 22, was awarded the first honour ahead of his team-mates Scott McDonald and Barry Robson, as well as Carlos Cuellar of Rangers.

Hamilton Accies manager Billy Reid was named the Manager of the Year.

There was also a Scottish Football Special Merit award for the late Motherwell captain Phil O'Donnell.

McGeady is the first player to win both awards in a single season since former team-mate Shaun Maloney in 2006.

"Obviously I am delighted. I've got to give thanks to the players who voted for me," he said.

"I think my game's come on an awful lot with the help of the coaching staff and the players I'm playing with, but I think the main thing is consistency."

The Republic of Ireland international played a key part in Celtic's European and domestic campaign this season.

McGeady scored his first Champions League goal earlier this season, the only goal in the 1-0 win over Benfica in November.

The 16-times capped midfielder has also scored eight goals in the Scottish Premier League as well as providing a number of assists.

Hamilton Accies won promotion to the SPL at the weekend and Reid said: "It's been a fantastic 24 hours for me.

"The big thing for me was obviously getting to the Premier League and this award caps it off.

"I didn't play in the SPL as a player so I've got a chance to do that as a manager and I can't wait."

Tizzer22

27th April, 2008, 11:07 AM

Old Firm Preview

Rangers visit Celtic Park for the second time in eleven days on Sunday, live on Setanta Sports 1 from 11.30am, and again it is promising to be an absolute cracker.

If Celtic win they will open up a five-point gap over their city rivals, while Rangers can go back to the top with three games in hand.

However, a win for Walter Smith?s side will put them back in pole position and with three games in hand still remaining.

It is the final Old Firm derby of the season, a potential title decider, and with all the hype surrounding the game, another classic could be served up by the Glasgow rivals.

Celtic won the last clash with virtually the last kick of the ball and Rangers will be out seeking revenge and to prove they are indeed top dog in the city, because losing to your city rivals is not an option - it is looked upon as coming last, not second.

Rangers have only managed to score twice in their last six visits to the east end of the city, but they have only lost once in their last six games with the current SPL champions.

Celtic may have found some form at the right time and have won their last three SPL outings, although some would view last week's win over Aberdeen as very lucky and they have conceded just six goals in their last 16 games.

Scott McDonald might be off colour at the moment, but he has scored first in 12 of Celtic?s games this season and just might choose Sunday to return to form.

Celtic?s 2-1 win on April 16 at home against the title contenders was the first time they had scored against Rangers in five matches and they will be looking again for another performance like the last time.

Shunsuke Nakamura gave Gordon Strachan a real scare after a training ground clash with Barry Robson but he will be fit for the game. Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, Lee Naylor and Andreas Hinkel all look as if they will be available for selection.

Both Scott Brown and Gary Caldwell are both available again for The Bhoys.

Barry Ferguson is available after missing the game against Fiorentina on Thursday night, but Kevin Thomson is suspended and Carlos Cuellar will miss the clash after being sent off in the last game at Celtic Park, Christian Dailly will probably partner David Weir in defence.

Neil Alexander will again take his place in goal and there could be a rare place for Thomas Buffel because Dailly will move into defence. Or will Walter Smith use the chance to alter his attacking formation for this game?

Lee McCulloch, Allan McGregor, Chris Burke, Steven Naismith, Charlie Adam can only sit and watch the events unfold before their eyes, but one interesting battle should have everyone intrigued and that is the duel between Aiden McGeady and Nacho Novo after the Spaniard claimed he had the Republic of Ireland international in his back pocket during the last encounter at Celtic Park.

Tizzer22

27th April, 2008, 04:39 PM

Celtic Old Firm victory keeps title race alive

Celtic blasted the Scottish Premier League race wide open with a thrilling 3-2 victory over fierce city rivals Rangers on Sunday.

Although the Ibrox side have three games-in-hand, Celtic now have a five point advantage at the top of the table and have a realistic chance of securing their third title in a row - when only weeks ago their challenge seemed over.

The Parkhead team's goalscoring heroes were Australian striker Scott McDonald, who grabbed a brace, and Barry Robson, who converted from the penalty spot.

However, they were made to work hard for the win after goals from David Weir and Gabon international Daniel Cousin had cancelled out McDonald's opener to give Rangers a brief first half lead.

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan was delighted with the victory and his side's battling qualities.

He said: "The second time we got the lead we were far more positive as the first time we were a bit negative.

"To claw our way back with some good football and determined stuff was very pleasing. When it went to 3-2 we started to enjoy it - which is unusual for me in an Old Firm game."

Walter Smith believed his side had merited at least a point but says they still have the advantage.

The Rangers manager said: "We started the match on top although Celtic finished the first half stronger and pinned us back.

"It was pretty even in the second half and I don't think either goalkeeper had much to do.

"We're disappointed we've not taking anything from the game. I thought we were good value for at least a point.

"If we win all our games and Celtic win theirs we will have a four point advantage and we never expected winning a championship would be easy."

Celtic had opened the scoring in the fourth minute with their first effort on goal.

Andreas Hinkel's long ball forward was headed on by Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink and, although appearing to be a yard offside, McDonald raced in on goal, took a touch and lashed low past Rangers' stand-in goalkeeper Neil Alexander.

However, Rangers restored parity in the 17th minute.

Steven Davis' corner was met by veteran defender Weir at the front post and he headed past Celtic's Polish goalkeeper Artur Boruc from six-yards.

Rangers then scored an almost identical goal in the 29th minute.

This time it was Cousin who met Davis' corner at the front post to send a powerful header into the net via the underside of the crossbar.

Only a victory was good enough to keep Celtic in the SPL title race and in the 43rd minute they scored their second to level the match.

Aiden McGeady played a pin-point pass to the feet of McDonald 16-yards from goal and the little Australian cut inside before striking a right-foot shot that took a deflection before looping over Alexander into the net.

The game was flowing end-to-end in the second half but it was the home side who scored the fifth goal of the match from the penalty spot in the 70th minute.

Paul Hartley's pass put McDonald in on goal but the striker was unceremoniously bundled to the ground by Kirk Broadfoot, who was lucky to escape with only a yellow card, and referee Craig Thomson pointed to the spot.

In the last Old Firm game McDonald had missed a penalty and so this time responsibility fell to Robson who confidently drove the ball past Alexander low into the net.

Rangers' miserable day was compounded when Steven Whittaker was sent-off in injury time when he picked up a second yellow card for a crude challenge on Japanese international Shunsuke Nakamura.

Tizzer22

28th April, 2008, 12:34 AM

McDonald rues missing Celtic's first Old Firm hat-trick for 37 years

SCOTT McDonald re-ignited his sparkling debut season for Celtic yesterday by breaking his scoring duck in Old Firm matches and has now set his sights on winning a championship for the Parkhead club as memorably as he denied them one three years ago.

The Australian forward's double in the 3-2 win over Rangers took his tally for the current campaign to a hugely impressive 29 goals and he has long since earned the admiration of the supporters whose hearts he broke at Fir Park in 2005 with the two late strikes for Motherwell which helped the Ibrox men win the SPL title by the narrowest of margins.

With yesterday's victory for Celtic opening up the possibility of another photo finish in the championship race, McDonald hopes he can complete his redemption in the eyes of the fans who once cursed his name.

"It's great to get that monkey off my back, scoring in an Old Firm game for the first time," said McDonald. "After missing the penalty in the last game against Rangers 11 days ago, I was worried that people would start to talk about me doing it again in terms of costing Celtic a title.

"Fortunately I managed to play a part in our late winner that night and to now score twice in this win is huge for me. It would mean the world to deliver the title for Celtic this season and maybe people would stop reminding me about 2005.

"Scoring the early goal today gave me a huge lift, but this win will only be significant for us if we win our last three games and Rangers manage to drop points. We have got a bit of pride back, though, by winning the last two Old Firm games. It shows our fans there is character here. The team and players have taken a few hits, some of them probably rightly so because of some performances, so it's great to get back to winning ways.

"I think Rangers still have the stronger hand in the title race, because they will feel they can win all of their remaining games, but we just have to worry about ourselves. It is important that we keep believing and that the team stick together. We are 110 per cent behind the manager, we enjoy working with him every day, and there would be nothing sweeter than to get over the line in this championship and make it three in a row for him."

McDonald was denied the opportunity to become the first Celtic player since Harry Hood in 1971 to score a hat-trick in an Old Firm game, being pulled down by Kirk Broadfoot as he raced into the penalty area with 20 minutes remaining. The subsequent penalty kick was taken and converted by Barry Robson to secure all three points for Celtic and McDonald had no complaints at missing out on a little piece of history.

"Having missed the penalty in the last game against Rangers, it was decided before this one that there would be a change," he said. "I would liked to have scored my hat-trick to be honest. I was thinking about taking the penalty but there was no taking it off Robbo. Pretty much Robbo said 'I'm taking it' and that was it. It was the right decision because he stuck it away brilliantly."

McDonald's reluctance to argue was understandable given his penalty miss 11 days earlier, but he was delighted to make amends with his double yesterday. "It was exactly what I wanted – after the last game I was hungry for goals," he said. "The goals have not been coming thick and fast recently but I have been working hard and finishing in training. It was great to get the rewards. I didn't have much time to think about it, it was just touch and finish and bang and look around and say 'am I onside here?' because I was pretty much alone."

• Celtic have been cut from 5/2 to 6/4 to retain the SPL title after beating Rangers for the second time in a fortnight.

Rangers, who are now five points behind with three games in hand, are 1/2 from 2/7. Ladbrokes spokesman Robin Hutchison said: "Celtic needed to win both games and they've done so. With Rangers having so many injuries and suspensions it's game on."

Tizzer22

28th April, 2008, 12:36 AM

Strachan satisfied but knows title remains rivals' to lose

GORDON Strachan's joy over a second successive triumph in yesterday's Old Firm match at Parkhead may have been almost palpable, but it was not enough to tempt him to make noises about Celtic's chances of retaining the Clydesdale Bank Premier League championship they have held for the past two seasons.

The Celtic manager, typically, refused to look further ahead than next Saturday's visit to Motherwell, or to join the debate over the possibility of Rangers' defeat leaving them sufficiently unnerved to concede the four points in their remaining six matches that would allow their great rivals to take the title from their grasp.

"I would have no idea what impact the result may have on the championship," said Strachan after the 3-2 win. "And how anybody else reacts to it is up to them. I would have no insight into that.

"All I know is how it affects us, and what it means is that it makes us feel better about ourselves for a few days. Then we'll be back into the next assignment."

With only three fixtures to Rangers' six on the run-in, it is obvious that Strachan and his players will have to rely on the Ibrox side's faltering.

The likelihood of such a stumble may have increased with the injuries sustained by central defender David Weir and midfielder Steven Davis, which makes them very doubtful for Thursday's trip to Italy for the second leg of the Uefa Cup semi-final against Fiorentina and which may also keep them out of domestic action. Strachan and his players may also take encouragement from the curious statistic which shows that Rangers may be losing the winning habit.

They have triumphed on only two of their past eight outings, including the draw with St Johnstone in the Scottish Cup semi-final – they did win the penalty shoot-out – at Hampden eight days ago.

Strachan, however, preferred to dwell on the resurgence of form by his own team, their four successive victories – two against Rangers, one away to Motherwell and one at home to Aberdeen – seeming to signify an end to the run of set-backs that had afflicted them through the previous six weeks or so.

He was clearly pleased with yesterday's performance when he said, "I think the second time we got the lead (from Barry Robson's penalty kick), we were much more positive than we had been after we led early on. After the third goal, I thought, 'Yeah, you're really enjoying this now'.

"They realised what they'd done wrong in the first half and put it right.

" I was most pleased at simply playing the way we wanted, although I was disappointed at losing two goals to identical set pieces, corner kicks from the same side.

"They were very well delivered and there was bravery from Rangers in getting in to make the headers (Weir and Daniel Cousin), but it was really quite disappointing from our point of view."

It was when Strachan was asked if his team's comeback after being 2-1 down had been the response of champions that he revealed his pride in his players: "We are the champions till somebody takes it from us."

Remembering the penalty missed by Scott McDonald in the previous Old Firm match, Strachan was asked if yesterday's scorer, Barry Robson, had been nominated before the start.

"No, we'd agreed big Jan (Vennegoor of Hesselink) would take it, but, fortunately, I took big Jan off a minute before the penalty."

Tizzer22

28th April, 2008, 12:40 AM

Strachan sees funny side of Boruc T-shirt slogan

CELTIC manager Gordon Strachan made light of the antics of his goalkeeper, Artur Boruc, who revealed a 'God bless the Pope' T-shirt following the 3-2 win over Rangers at Parkhead.

After the game the Poland international, nicknamed the 'Holy Goalie' by the Celtic fans, took his goalkeeping shirt off to show the T-shirt with a picture of the Pope and accompanying slogan.

But Strachan joked: "He's not a bad lad, to be fair (the Pope]. If it was 'God bless Myra Hindley', I might have a problem."

It is not the first time Boruc has courted controversy in Old Firm matches. He was cautioned by police for making gestures to Rangers fans at a match at Ibrox in February 2006.

The Polish international also paraded a flag with 'Champions' written across it at the end of a 2-0 defeat by Rangers last year at the same venue. This season, Boruc angered Lee McCulloch, Barry Ferguson and David Weir by refusing to shake hands after a 3-0 defeat by Rangers at Ibrox, which brought condemnation from Strachan.

"If you get angry you should use it in other ways," said the manager. "It should make you tackle harder, run faster, jump higher." Boruc was also booked at the end of a 2-0 win at Easter Road in March for gesturing to Hibs fans.

toto67

28th April, 2008, 12:42 AM

Tis was a good win and cant say we didnt deserve to win it...Well Done

CELTIC

A feel a song coming on:elefant:
Ohhhh Theeee Rangerssss Areeee Shiteeeeee
Ohhhh Theeee Rangerssss Areeee Shiteeeeee
Ohhhh Theeee Rangerssss Areeee Shiteeeeee
Ohhhh Theeee Rangerssss Areeee Shiteeeeee

Everybodyyyyyyyy

Ohhhh Theeee Rangerssss Areeee Shiteeeeee
Ohhhh Theeee Rangerssss Areeee Shiteeeeee
Ohhhh Theeee Rangerssss Areeee Shiteeeeee
Ohhhh Theeee Rangerssss Areeee Shiteeeeee

Tizzer22

30th April, 2008, 10:16 AM

SPL to request Celtic deal with goalkeeper Artur Boruc after Old Firm's papal T-shirt stunt

The SPL are poised to write to Celtic requesting that the Parkhead club deal with goalkeeper Artur Boruc internally.

As Sportsmail revealed yesterday, Old Firm match delegate Willie McDougall will accuse the Polish international of 'irresponsible behaviour' when his report arrives with the SPL tomorrow.

Boruc's decision to celebrate Sunday's 3-2 win over Rangers by donning a T-shirt of the late Pope John Paul II has overshadowed a vital triumph for Gordon Strachan's side.

Yesterday, former SFA security chief and police officer McDougall's missive had yet to arrive at Hampden.

When it does so, however, SPL executive chairman Lex Gold is likely to pass the matter over to Celtic's board of directors.

The SFA are the only body with the power to punish Boruc for what Rangers supporters regard as an inflammatory gesture.

And the governing body have no intention of acting after referee Craig Thomson ignored the incident.

Instead, the SPL will write to the club concerned. Celtic will then be asked to issue a private warning to the player as to his future actions.

Boruc is no stranger to controversy where opposition supporters are concerned.

Privately, however, senior Celtic figures are querying why such a T- shirt should be regarded as provocative and remain circumspect over Boruc's actions.

Manager Strachan, for one, has already brushed the matter aside.

Tizzer22

30th April, 2008, 10:22 AM

Celtic fan dies after Govan attack

A Celtic supporter died on Sunday evening after being attacked by a gang of youths in the Govan area of Glasgow.

Patrick McBride, 51, suffered a heart attack after the incident, which is believed to have been perpetrated by three men.

The trio, all aged 21, were arrested in connection with the attack and are slated to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court on Tuesday.

Very sad to hear another Celtic fan dieing after a old firm match, RIP to a fellow tim

Tizzer22

30th April, 2008, 10:25 AM

McGeady targeted in street fracas

Aiden McGeady was targeted by drunken Rangers fans in a street fracas outside a Glasgow nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning.

McGeady was with teammate Scott McDonald in the Bamboo club celebrating Celtic?s 3-2 win over Rangers on Sunday afternoon.

A threatening mob showered the Scottish-born Ireland international with abuse when he left the club, with a scuffle breaking out on the street.

The incident was over in a matter of seconds, but McGeady is ready to co-operate with police if required.

A Celtic spokesperson said: ?The players made the club aware of this incident on Monday. Aiden has made it clear he?d be more than happy to co-operate with the police as both players were undoubtedly the aggrieved parties in this unfortunate incident.?

Tizzer22

2nd May, 2008, 11:08 AM

Celtic On The Way To ?12 million ?

CELTIC and Rangers have been handed an added ?12 million incentive to win the SPL - the chance to go straight into the Champions League group stages.The all-British final between Manchester United and Chelsea in Moscow next month means the Scottish champions should automatically get into next year's competition.The only scenario which could see them have to go through qualifying is if Arsenal manage to finish in second place in the Barclays Premier League.

The Gunners are four points behind United and Chelsea in third place in the table with two games remaining in the 2007/08 season.Celtic qualified for the Champions League automatically back in 2006 after Barcelona won and went on to reach the last 16 for the first time in their history.The side which finishes second in the SPL will have to go through qualifying.

Tizzer22

2nd May, 2008, 11:10 AM

mcmanus targets return for fir park clash

Newsroom Staff
STEPHEN McManus is hoping that he will be able to play a full part in Celtic?s last three league games of the season.

The Celtic captain suffered a calf injury during last weekend?s 3-2 victory over Rangers and had to be replaced by Darren O?Dea.

But McManus is doing everything he can to be available for the Hoops game with Motherwell at Fir Park tomorrow, Saturday, May 3.

?There are still three games to go and I don?t want to miss any of them,? he said. ?I will see how it goes but I took a bang on the calf and it?s more of a strain really.?

McManus was speaking at the official launch of the Phil O?Donnell Tribute Match, to be played at Celtic Park on Sunday, May 25 between Motherwell?s 1991 Scottish Cup-winning side and Celtic?s title-winning side of 1998.

?Phil was a role model,? McManus said. ?I was fortunate to know him before I can in full-time at Celtic. I was a young kid who left school at 15 and Phil was at Hamilton as well. He had a lot of respect for everyone around him.

?The important thing now is that this is his match. It is a great way to celebrate Phil?s life, for his family and everyone that knew him and played with him. He was such a fantastic guy and a great player."

Tizzer22

3rd May, 2008, 04:31 PM

Motherwell v Celtic ratings/stats

Ratings and statistics following Celtic’s Scottish Premier League win at Motherwell on Saturday.

The game lacked creativity for large periods and was more of a battle in midfield than an technical affair, with plenty of commitment from both sets of players.

Motherwell -v- Celtic

Luke Daniels 6.5 / Artur Boruc 6
Stephen Craigan 6 / Gary Caldwell 7.5
Brian McLean 8.5 / Bobo Balde 6.5
Mark Reynolds 6 / Andreas Hinkel 6.5
Bob Malcolm 7 / Lee Naylor 5
Steven Hammell 6 / Paul Hartley 6
Keith Lasley 7 / Shunsuke Nakamura 5.5
Marc Fitzpatrick 6.5 / Barry Robson 8
Chris Porter 7.5 / Aiden McGeady 6.5
Darren Smith 6 / Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink 5
David Clarkson 5.5 / Scott McDonald 6
Stephen Hughes 0 -SUB- Scott Brown 6
Ross McCormack 0 -SUB- Mark Wilson 0
Jamie Murphy 0 -SUB- Georgios Samaras 6

Motherwell Team Statistics Celtic
1 Goals 2
0 1st Half Goals 0
3 Shots on Target 4
5 Shots off Target 2
3 Blocked Shots 0
14 Corners 1
20 Fouls 15
0 Offsides 6
1 Yellow Cards 1
0 Red Cards 0
49.8 Possession 50.2

Tizzer22

3rd May, 2008, 04:35 PM

Celtic scrape precious win over Motherwell

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan has shrugged off Motherwell's frustration at referee Steve Conroy's apparent mistake that led to the visitor's late winner at Fir Park.

With around 12 minutes remaining and the game tied at 1-1, Celtic defender Bobo Balde appeared to head a Barry Robson free-kick wide for a goal-kick, under pressure from Motherwell striker Chris Porter. However, Conroy pointed to the corner flag.

From Robson's cross, Celtic substitute Georgios Samaras, on for Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, bundled the ball over the line from close range to give the visitors three crucial points in their quest to retain their title.

Porter said: "It was definitely a goal-kick but he gave a corner. I was shocked at his decision and it was hard to take."

Motherwell manager Mark McGhee added: "I'm absolutely adamant that it wasn't a corner. But we still had the opportunity to defend it even though the referee made a bad decision."

However, Strachan reacted curtly when told of Motherwell's anger, saying: "I am still furious about a goal and the offside decision that we didn't get at Inverness, so we are all furious."

The Celtic manager had his own cause for complaint in the treatment of his midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura in the early stages of a tetchy first half.

He said: "Did you see Naka getting mugged in the first half? I think there were five fouls on him in the first 15 minutes but, as they say in Scotland, he did well to 'keep the heid.'"

In an improved second half, Celtic striker Scott McDonald's 30th goal of the season after 61 minutes levelled Porter's opener a minute earlier, before Samaras popped up with his controversial winner.

The champions extended their lead over Rangers at the top of the table to eight points but the Ibrox club have four games in hand, starting with a trip to Easter Road on Sunday.

Strachan was glad to keep the pressure on his Glasgow rivals, saying: "It was a huge three points. It is so important to get results every week.

"Everybody expects us to play beautiful football but it about getting results and that was common-sense football.

"I wasn't concerned at 1-0 down because I always feel we can come back."

Tizzer22

4th May, 2008, 06:19 PM

Rangers held to 0-0 tie in Scottish league as fatigue from UEFA Cup takes its toll

Rangers settled for a 0-0 tie with Hibernian in the Scottish Premier League on Sunday, keeping it seven points behind league-leading Celtic.

Celtic has 83 points but Rangers have three games in hand due to reaching the final of the UEFA Cup against Zenit St. Petersburg.

Zenit won't play before the final in Manchester, England, on May 14 because the Russian soccer federation has postponed several games.

Rangers plays Motherwell on Wednesday and Dundee United on Saturday. After the UEFA Cup final, Rangers have three more league games against Motherwell, St. Mirren and Aberdeen before the May 24 Scottish Cup final against Queen of the South.

The Scottish Premier League has extended the season by four days to allow Rangers to complete their games.

"It's ironic that one association (Russia) cancels four games but that's the situation we are in," Rangers manager Walter Smith said. "I think the SPL have made it quite clear that they are not going to do anything like that.

"We have got games to play, we'll play the games if everyone thinks that's the right thing to do."

Smith said his side was tired after needing a penalty shootout to win at Fiorentina in the semifinals of the UEFA Cup on Thursday.

"It wasn't until about the last half hour we had an edge to our play," Smith said. "We had one or two half chances without creating anything clear cut."

Tizzer22

6th May, 2008, 06:17 PM

A few quality signings and Gordon Strachan's men will be able to up the standard another notch.

No matter what the outcome of the Scottish Premier League season now, the simple fact of the matter is that Celtic need to spend a large sum of money in the close season.

Steering away from the detractors of Gordon Strachan's signings, tactics and formation it is difficult to really criticise the man due to the success he has achieved during a time of financial prudence at Celtic.

Budgets have been adhered to and youngster are being given a chance thanks to Celtic not spending big. The simple fact is that Celtic cannot hope to match their English counterparts.

Money was spent on Massimo Donati, Scott Brown, Chris Killen and Scott McDonald last summer and Andreas Hinkel, Barry Robson, Georgios Samaras and Koki Mizuno followed in January.

It remains to be seen whether Samaras will be staying on after the loan spell although he has stated a desire not to return to Manchester City. He has been an impact player from the subs' bench since his arrival and a bit more oomph is needed in his game to guarentee a first-team berth.

Killen and Donati have done very little. For Killen it is unfortunate as he was bought as a back-up SPL striker and nothing else. He is not needed. Much was expected of Donati but perhaps Celtic should have listened to the Italian sports journalist who stated that the reason Donati never fulfilled his potential in Serie A was due to lack of fight and belief in his own ability. Frankly, if such attributes are missing from a talented player then the SPL is not a good arena to try and succeed. Thus, he has not.

Much jumping of the gun has been going on in the East end of Glasgow this season and that was before Rangers threatened a clean sweep at home and in Europe. There is no doubting the talent hiding within the current Celtic squad but unnearthing it, utilising it and making it work week to week is a different matter altogether.

The encouraging signs must be acted on; indeed that is where the most concerted efforts must be harboured. Lennoxtown training complex will provide many young starlets soon enough, but Celtic must try to make some inroads into the cheaper end of the European market. They will never pick up another Henrik Larsson for ?650,000. But Daniel Van Buyten would be a great signing from Bayern Munich. Big and strong, he wants away from the Germans and wouldn?t break the bank.

Dinamo Zagreb's young Croatian midfielder Ognjen Vukojevic may also arrive before leaving for the English Premier League in a few years. Richard Dunne of Manchester City has been talked about, too, but Newcastle look favourites.

Celtic spent ?9million last year and must up that to at least ?15 million, allowing for three top quality signings. There is now no point signing squad players as there are plenty at Parkhead.

Another striker would be ideal, giving Celtic much more choice and quality. Whether Peter Lawwell and John Reid will give Strachan the money to do so remains to be seen.

Tizzer22

6th May, 2008, 06:19 PM

Rumour: Portsmouth star heading to Celtic?!?!?

Portsmouth defender Noe Pamarot is attracting attention from Glasgow Celtic.

Celtic boss Gordon Strachan is believed to be a keen admirer of the 28 year old and is lining up a ?2M bid.

Pamarot has made 21 appearances for Pompey so far this season, scoring 3 goals. The Frenchman will enter into his last year of his current deal this summer.

Tizzer22

6th May, 2008, 06:21 PM

Robson hails all-rounder Nakamura

Barry Robson claims Celtic team-mate Shunsuke Nakamura is proving he has far more to offer than just his set-piece expertise.

The Japanese midfielder, 29, has recently recovered the form which earned him player of the year honours in Scotland last season.

He and Robson have been sharing free-kick and corner responsibilities, but both have also made major contributions in open play.

Robson said: "Naka is one of the best free-kick takers in the world - there is no doubt about that. Look at his corners, free-kicks, crossing - it's exceptional.

"But he's also got more to his game. He's a fit guy, he works so hard for the team and he's great to play alongside."

Celtic are preparing for Sunday's Clydesdale Bank Premier League home match against Hibernian.

If Rangers lose to Motherwell tomorrow night and are also beaten at Ibrox by Dundee United on Saturday, then Celtic would go into the game against Hibs knowing a win would secure them a third SPL title in a row.

Robson and Nakamura will be expected to play a key role against Hibs, even if the title is not on the line.

And former Dundee United captain Robson, also 29, is happy to divide the set-piece duties with his team-mate.

"I can help Naka out with the corners and vice versa," he told Celtic View.

"It's good to have that mix and we are both comfortable with the way things are working out."

gazz10

17th May, 2008, 03:43 PM

Salami

17th May, 2008, 06:14 PM

Scots Premier Table - May 17 2008
Team P W D L F A GD Pts
Celtic 37 27 5 5 83 26 57 86
Gers. 36 26 5 5 81 31 50 83

Well intresting reading. Great result for motherwell today.

Celtic can only through it away now,Am sure the Bhoys will do it on Thursday night for Tommy.

CELTIC has learned a lesson when they lost the title to Rangers at Fir Park, well now is time to pay back for the past mitakes.
Mighty Motherwell has returned the title to CELT's by a good enough draw against Rangers, and Aberdeen may just finish the rest of the season with a good party at the Hoops land.
Let's hope the HOOPS to win their game at tannadice with Style.
All the best to THE HOOPS.:aetsch:

Tokeloshe-Man

22nd May, 2008, 06:20 PM

here we go wednesday night,
another game to scrap and fight
as rangers try to keep it tight,
were all subjected to this sh*te.
all there fans will shout and scream
but are they happy with there team,
expectations they surpassed
but as per usual been outclassed.
this time the huns have had there luck
the whole of europe know u suck.
end of season alls reflected,
celtic win and their dejected.
walter u must take the blame,
your team and fans disgrace the game,
you'll never tarnish big jocks name
coz we all know ur scotlands shame

gazz10

23rd May, 2008, 08:14 PM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3E6X8_hXRw&feature=related

MrFug

23rd May, 2008, 09:36 PM

Song of the night "Where's your f*cking helicopter now?". :D

Salami

23rd May, 2008, 10:21 PM

The SPL title is not something someone can give you but is somthing no one can take away from you Celtic.

Well done the Hoops.

C64

23rd May, 2008, 11:50 PM

Cheers gazz10, I enjoyed that :)

Neutrino

25th May, 2008, 01:41 PM

celtic suck just a bunch of lucky gits

Tizzer22

13th July, 2008, 04:44 PM

Southampton vs Celtic KO Friday 7:45pm 18th July on Celtic TV

Middlesbrough vs Celtic KO Tuesday 7:10pm 22nd July on Setanta 1

Cardiff City vs Celtic KO Thursday 7:45pm 24th July on Setanta 1

Celtic vs Tottenham Hotspurs KO Friday 5:00pm 1st August on Sky Sports 2

Feyenoord vs Celtic KO Sunday 6:45pm 3rd August on Sky Sports 1

Celtic vs Manchester City KO Wednesday 7:00pm 6th August on Setanta 1

Did you hear the one about the two Serbs, a Nigerian, a Portuguese, an English man and a Greek?

No, it's not the start of a joke, just the latest rumblings as to the latest comings and goings from Celtic Park. Today’s paper speculation has linked a number of defenders with possible moves to Paradise, with one player's possible departure and a loan deal to be made permanent.

Serbia & Montenegro pair Dusko Tosic & Marko Basa are being reported to be lined up by Gordon Strachan as possible targets. Basa, a 25 year old Central defender, who currently plays in France for Le Mans, is looking to leave for pastures new this summer. However his club has angered the Serb by slapping a ?7.5 million asking price on his head. It is thought a deal could be struck at around ?4.5 million, it seems if a fee can be agreed between the two clubs, then Basra preferred option would be to join the Hoops. He is quoted as saying:

"I'd welcome the opportunity to join Celtic because they are a club with a proud history.

"They also have a manager in Gordon Strachan who has achieved great things as a player and also as the leader of Celtic."

"At the moment the situation is out of my control but I will do what I can to make this transfer happen."

Dynamo Kiev has also expressed an interest, however, Basa does not want to move to Ukraine.

A source close to Basa said: "Interest from Celtic has been registered and it is an exciting option for Marko."

"There are complications with the fee but meetings are scheduled between the parties."

Dusko Tosic, Basa?s international team mate who currently plays for Werder Bremen, is also linked with Celtic. The stocky left back who only signed for Bremen at the beginning of last season seems to be one of a number of left backs on Gordon Strachan’s radar.

Various media outlets have also attached Celestine Babayaro and Nuno Valente with moves to paradise. The much travelled Babayaro, who is currently on trial at Pompey, is thought to also be an option for Celtic’s left back slot. Nuno Valente, Portugal and Everton left back, who has had his career halted by a number of injuries, is another name in the frame. Although Valente is still highly rated by his current manager David Moyes, Celtic will supposedly make a move for Portuguese international to test Everton’s resolve.

Meanwhile, Lee Naylor is thought to be subject to a ?2 million move to Sunderland. Naylor, who enjoyed a successful first season at Celtic Park, struggled to reach similar highs last season. With Roy Keane seemingly interested in securing Naylor’s signature, it would seem that Celtic would not be hard to deal with. Reports suggest Naylor is unsettled and wants to return south to be closer to his family.

Gorgeous Samaras, who had a successful loan period last season with the hoops, looks set to sign permanently. Various reports suggest a knock down fee of ?2 million has been agreed with Manchester City and player terms are not expected to be an issue.

ticticboom

13th July, 2008, 06:27 PM

nice one mate was wondering what hoops pre season games were on the telly :D

backtozero

14th July, 2008, 02:44 PM

?2 million for Naylor - I would bite the hand off of them.

jaytag

14th July, 2008, 10:09 PM

is there any more about shaun malony coming back, hope not and what about some dutch defender maybe coming dont know name .anybody know anything

thecelticfan

14th July, 2008, 11:55 PM

Maloney Baloney never was never will be.

On another note, anyone got a celtic bar that will show the the saints game in Malta?

mysterons

15th July, 2008, 10:52 PM

Always liked him good old school center half type player.

ticticboom

15th July, 2008, 11:01 PM

Always liked him good old school center half type player.

who you talkin about ????

dougiej1983

16th July, 2008, 01:26 PM

he plays on the left, he plays on the right,danny swanson makes robson look shite!

Saltire

1st August, 2008, 10:54 PM

spurs 2 celtic 0, ahahhahahahahhahahaa.

jaytag

1st August, 2008, 11:14 PM

hey mate get a life 0-0 for the gers not very good is it ahahahahahahaha at

Saltire

1st August, 2008, 11:15 PM

hey mate get a life 0-0 for the gers not very good is it ahahahahahahaha at

yes it is, its all tactics, lol

jaytag

1st August, 2008, 11:18 PM

h
those maybe worked last year but maybe not this year .or maybe they are just lucky mpre to the point

Saltire

1st August, 2008, 11:21 PM

h
those maybe worked last year but maybe not this year .or maybe they are just lucky mpre to the point

yea, maybe, and i think if pre-season games are anything to go by, celtic better hope for some luck too, ilmaooooooooo

jaytag

1st August, 2008, 11:27 PM

we will c 2morrow when rfc play Lfc they must be better than the other night . but cfc have not looked any better . let the season begin.and get the pater flowing. as you can see i cant spell who cares

Devilfish

5th August, 2008, 09:11 PM

Can I remind folk that this is not a football board where you can bait each other looking for an argument! If you can't be sensible about it the threads will be removed and your account banned!

We don't need this type of discussion and I won't stand for it!

mark015

14th August, 2008, 10:20 PM

:champions:Breaking news...Loovens leaves Cardiff for Celtic - WalesOnline (http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-news/2008/08/14/breaking-news-loovens-leaves-cardiff-for-celtic-91466-21536549/)

Saltire

14th August, 2008, 10:24 PM

Tizzer22

16th August, 2008, 08:10 PM

rangers didnt want him as they seen "DUD" wrote all over him, ilmao.

Well thats great news for Celtic fans since all the DUDS Rangers have left for Celtic have been good signings like McDonald, Hartley, Robson. :cheers:

I dont know about the old firm reject though (Miller)

gazz10

10th June, 2011, 07:50 PM

Had to look hard to find the celtic thread.

So time it got updated.

Would like to present the Thai Tims to those that never knew about them.

All over the world the same criteria applies when raising happy, confident children: - Love ? Inclusion ? Education ? Independence. The Good Child Foundation offers placements to children of all abilities including pupils with Downs Syndrome at its school in Thailand.

Our Vision is to educate all of our students for a life that embraces opportunity and inclusion in society. In today?s world it is recognised that children whatever their ability will gain from access to education, provided it is tailored to meet their individual capabilities, needs and requirements. For children with learning difficulties associated with Downs Syndrome education is essential to their development, confidence and long-term independence.

All being done with Volunteer Teacher's

http://www.goodchildfoundation.com

YouTube - ‪Tommy Burns by The Good Child Foundation‬&rlm;

YouTube - ‪Thai tims mix: 'This Land'-'The Fields'-'Over and Over'-'Let the People Sing'-'Willie Maley'‬&rlm;

YouTube - ‪Jimmy Johnstone Tribute- Dirty Old Town by The Thai Tims.‬&rlm;

A few of the songs that have touched the hearts of many supporters accross the world.

HH Ynwa

mattybhoy

10th June, 2011, 08:56 PM

Just can't get enough.:top:

leotheloin

10th June, 2011, 09:51 PM

Had to look hard to find the celtic thread.

So time it got updated.

Would like to present the Thai Tims to those that never knew about them.

All over the world the same criteria applies when raising happy, confident children: - Love ? Inclusion ? Education ? Independence. The Good Child Foundation offers placements to children of all abilities including pupils with Downs Syndrome at its school in Thailand.

Our Vision is to educate all of our students for a life that embraces opportunity and inclusion in society. In today?s world it is recognised that children whatever their ability will gain from access to education, provided it is tailored to meet their individual capabilities, needs and requirements. For children with learning difficulties associated with Downs Syndrome education is essential to their development, confidence and long-term independence.

All being done with Volunteer Teacher's

http://www.goodchildfoundation.com

YouTube - ***x202a;Tommy Burns by The Good Child Foundation***x202c;&rlm; (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2PRTsUS2xU&feature=player_embedded)

YouTube - ***x202a;Thai tims mix: ***39;This Land***39;-***39;The Fields***39;-***39;Over and Over***39;-***39;Let the People Sing***39;-***39;Willie Maley***39;***x202c;&rlm; (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sMctD4-uCc&feature=player_embedded)

YouTube - ***x202a;Jimmy Johnstone Tribute- Dirty Old Town by The Thai Tims.***x202c;&rlm; (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmBvdgCFv5M&feature=player_embedded)

A few of the songs that have touched the hearts of many supporters accross the world.

HH Ynwa
Fantastic m8 :beer: