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Celtic Diary Saturday September 2: Clarity And Common Sense

Opinions will be divided on whether or not the transfer window was successful right up until celtic complete their programme of champions league matches in December.

Anything else is merely speculation.

Manager Brendan Rodgers offered his point of view …

“We have enjoyed a really successful summer window and I am delighted with our activity in the market, bringing in five players who I believe are adding real quality to our squad. 

Supporters do tend to forget the window is a couple of months long, and not merely confined to Sky sports telling us that they “understand ” on the last day in August.

“It has been said so many times before, but the objective, if possible, is always to come out of the window stronger than we went in and I am very happy as we have definitely done that. 

“The first thing to say is that I am delighted that we have not lost any players that we really wanted to hold on to. With such talent in our squad, you are always vulnerable, but to resist any interest from outside and hold on to our quality is very satisfying. These players know our ideas and how we work. 

There’s little point in kicking away the foundations when you’re trying to build something. Celtic have usually sold their top men, usually to Southampton. Rodgers has yet to lose anyone he wanted to keep.

“The players we have added will only enhance this level of quality. Jonny Hayes was outstanding for Aberdeen for four seasons and he was the best player in Scotland outwith our squad, and we were delighted to bring him to the club, while Kundai has already shown he is someone of real talent and potential. Both players will be very important for us over the course of the season. 

Hayes is a much better player than we give him credit for. He won’t be a first pick, but he will be a reliable one.

“Olivier, who we brought in from Manchester City, has already shown that he is a real, top class player, who will only get better. He is a player who I always felt would work for us and he has already given us some huge performances.” 

If Ntcham continues to improve as he is, on an almost game by game basis, we have unearthed a gem. He won’t feature all the time, he’s not ready for that yet, but when he does, he’ll make his presence known.

“Pat is a massive signing for us and I’m absolutely delighted to welcome him back to the club. We saw what he brought to the team last season, I know he loves the club and is so happy to be back – and I know Kieran is thrilled to have his friend back as well! 

“Pat is a real favourite with our supporters and I am sure he will play a crucial role across all the challenges we will be facing. 

We wanted to buy him, City and Fulham wanted to stay friends, and with Fulham still smarting over losing Dembele for next to nothing, they put their foot down.

“In Odsonne, we have signed one of the best and most exciting young strikers in Europe and I think Celtic will be a place where he can flourish, just like Moussa has done here. He will be great for us and the kind of player who will excite our fans – we have done a great job in bringing him to the club. 

The third striker…who had to be someone going nowhere. His baggage meant he was cheap, and we get a year to see if he’s in the “stupid but saveable ” class, and if he is, we’ve already replaced Dembele.

“As everyone knows we were looking to bring a centre-half into the club and it was very unfortunate what happened with Rivaldo in South Africa. It was a great shame for him that he was not able to complete that transfer and of course we send him our sincere best wishes for the future. 

He failed a medical. With our current levels of injury-some of these players are still growing and are prone to stretches, strains and tears- we’d need to build another wing onto Lennoxtown if we get any more, and after Boerrigter the club are taking no chances.

“However, when that was not possible, there was no way I was going to bring in another centre-half for the sake of it or for numbers – I have always said it’s about the highest-quality rather than quantity.

“We have a style and a profile I am looking for and when a player with the particular attributes we are looking for is not available, then that is something we need to accept and not bring in players into the squad just for the sake of it. 

The policy of “we need to do something, this is something , lets do it ” has been ditched. No more Carlton Coles, no more Colin Kazim Richards’s , no more listening to agents who ring up saying “I hear you need a defender “.

It’s clear that if he isn’t already being tracked, then agents are wasting their time.

How can that be a bad thing ?

“But, at a good time for us, we have Dedryck Boyata coming back from injury, Erik Sviatchenko is also working extremely hard on his rehab and young Kristoffer Ajer is a player who has really come to the fore and will continue to develop. I am more than comfortable with the other options we have in this area.

“So we are in great shape after the window and, when we return from the international break, we will start our work again. We will bring our new players into the squad, build on our great start to the season and go again.

“We have had a great start to the season in the league, we are in the quarter-finals of the League Cup and, of course, once again we made the group stages of the Champions League, so we have had a very successful few months.

“We are in a good place and looking forward to some exciting matches ahead domestically and in Europe – and we will be looking to start again positively against Hamilton next week.

“Finally, I want to take this opportunity to thank the supporters for their incredible backing in the early part of the eason and hopefully we can continue with this great connection over the rest of the campaign.” 

 

He seems happy enough, and accusations that he is towing the party line are probably way out.

No manager really ever gets everything he wants, but Rodgers seems content.

And there were words from a man who knows all about buying and selling to emphasise this.

One of the things i noticed about the last day of the transfer window as i watched the “excitement ” on Sky whilst sipping a refreshement in a traditional inn, was that most of the players moving were moving for sums beyond the reach of Celtic.

More importantly, they were players i’d never heard of, players who almost certainly were looking at the deal in front of them and not which club that deal was with. Nice work if you can get it, but not the sort of staff you’d want to recruit in any other business.

In the EPL, where money does grow on trees, the prices paid for players , and the wages on offer are not conducive to teams hungry for success, although success for them is merely avoiding dropping off the Sky payroll.

Its not what Celtic fans are interested in. We have our own favourites, and are largely unimpressed by  managers who think that because they have paid a lot for a player, that somehow makes them good managers.

Instead of bemoaning what we don’t have, we should really ask ourselves if thats what we really want, ask ourselves  if we’d prefer legions of mercenaries bleeding the club dry just so we can tell everyone how much we’ve spent.

As for our UCL campaign, and if we are ready for it, I’ll do what I did last year.

Blind and reckless optimism until we get beat, and then I’ll throw a wobbly.

Image result for temper tantrum gif

 

Oh, and by the way, season book holders have until 4pm today to get their packages bought..

Here’s everything you need to know:

PRICES

– Adults – £114
– Concessions – £90
– Under-13s – £81

DEADLINE

Season Ticket holders have until 4pm today, (Saturday, September 2) to secure a seat for these upcoming games.

HOW TO BUY

Online – visit eticketing.co.uk/celtic  – no booking fees apply.

By Phone – Call 0871 226 1888* (option 1). Lines are open today until 4pm – no booking fees apply.
Please ensure that you have your client reference and payment details available when you call. 

In Person – visit the Ticket Office at Celtic Park, open today(Saturday, September 2) from 10am until 4pm. 

 

Half a dozen Celtic players took part in a bounce match last night, Livingston, I think I heard someone say, and they all did very well, and although I haven’t paid to much attention to it, no one got injured and they even managed to influence the way their team played, but then half a dozen seasoned top level players will make a difference to any side, and no doubt the lesser players in the team would have upped their game alongside them.

There’s another run out for them on Monday, against some part timers, and as long as everyone comes through it unscathed, then I suppose the chance to play with different players can only widen our lads experiences.

Though I’m not one for the strip. It looks silly.

If this was, say, an international team, under the arm of the SFA, I’d be saying that if Celtic threatened to withdraw their players, just as the side looked like it might go somewhere, we could perhaps get rid of some of the freeloaders currently in office, and maybe begin to clear up the stench surrounding the Scottish game…

 

 

But there are some good things about our game, and Celtic are right out there doing their bit. Before the next home game, against Ross County this month, there will be another collection for the benefit if those who are going through a rough time.. as the Evening Times explained..

CELTIC will join forces with several charities on the football club’s next match day for a major foodbank item raising drive.

Fans attending the home match against Ross County on Saturday, September 16 are urged to take part by donating what they can.

It is part of an initiative with Glasgow NE Foodbank to address issues of poverty and hunger in society by collecting items and distributing to those in need.

The Invisibles, a local voluntary organisation helping Glasgow’s homelesscommunity and Refuweegee, a community-led charity set up to ensure that all refugees arriving in Glasgow are welcomed to the city in true Glaswegian style, will also be taking part in the item raising drive.

A spokesman for Celtic FC said

 “We would like to invite all supporters who are attending the match against Ross County to bring along a donation if they can – even one item from the list can make a huge difference to someone’s life.”

A list of items that the organisations need include adult men’s trainers that are no longer needed, size six upwards; cartons of fruit juice, teabags, tinned fish, tinned fruit and vegetables, and tinned pudding including rice and custard.

The club said there will be three drop-off stations. The clover on the Celtic Way is the main collection and the West and East entrance areas along Janefield Street will also be used.

A spokesman for Celtic FC added: “We would like to sincerely thank all Celtic supporters for their continued backing of Celtic FC Foundation’s initiatives, including this developing partnership with the local foodbank.”

Now the hullaballoo over the transfer window is beginning to die down, lets be happy in what we have, and not worry about what we don’t. and if we have a little bit spare, lets give it to those who could use it…

( Hey , Peter…Will this do ? I fancy that gig at the View…)

 

Yesterdays picture…

Image result for strange photos from history

Mick Cass September 1, 2017 at 10:36 am · Edit · Reply →

Caption: It’s true! The driveway really is heated… 

Today, lets wallow in the past… memories or captions for this, from Lisbon Lion on twitter..

 

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6 years ago

Caption
When the photo a building takes you back to your childhood and you remember screaming across the top terrace on Christmas morning in your new Celtic strip at Mach 10 against a headwind with a chill factor of “Siberia in the Summer”.
Hoopy Days cheers Ralph 😉
I was Kenny Dalglish back then …

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

CS, do you remember the days when they used to lite bonfires in the Celtic end when it was freezing, though I think you might be a bit too young. The Green Brigade would heve been in their element.

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago

I think you are remembering the scarves being set alight at the other end in the days of the Old Firm,those were the days,when both clubs colluded to make plenty money,wouldn’t happen these days,would it?…..

6 years ago

No a bit before my time I think Andy though with poor attendances I could see the need for that in the old Parkheid’

Gerrymac
6 years ago

HD – I can remember as a youngster, being in the Celtic end early sixties, with my dad and fires being lit on the spaces in the terraces using green citizens/pink times to keep warm. The heated stantions were rubbish in those days

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago
Reply to  Gerrymac

Gerrymac, do you remember the bugler in the Jungle?

Gerrymac
6 years ago

No I can’t remember that but my dad was always a Celtic end man and the fires were during my under 10 years so early 1960’s. I didn’t progress to the jungle until the 70’s with my teenage mates.
Parkhead was what he always referred to when we were going but I do remember him teaching me that Celtic park was one of only a few grounds in Scotland named after the club that played there, as opposed to Cathkin, Pittodie! Firhill etc

6 years ago

Theres a wee thing for the older bhoys (and ghirls) among us…
Celtic Park or Parkheid ?
You see for me one screams CFC and the other PLC
I much prefer the latter though you don’t often here it being used on the net nowadays.
What say you?

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Parkhead (I’m posh ;)) for me.

Agreed that CP seems to have been a modern P(L)C rebranding marketing exercise to create an USP (yawn).

of course pre 70s maybe Celtic Park was the fashion as these things do change over time.

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  The Cha

Parkhead,always and forever….

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago
Reply to  The Cha

What, a modern PLC rebranding? Nonsense.

6 years ago
Reply to  The Cha

You’re pumping David Bekham?
Had no idea you were a Tim hen 😉

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Always Celtic Park, the Park or Paradise, never Parkhead.

Honest Hoops
6 years ago

Caption; the pigeons are slowly surrounding the greatest support in the world

6 years ago

It would appear to me that outwith all he usual pish surrounding the Transfer Window that Brendan Rodgers is fairly content with his lot at Celtic?
Of course there are those “in the know” that may well know different but I do believe that his plans are not as short term as some would appear to think?
I have read some comments on here in the past few days that suggest he might be for the off (if his plans don’t match their expectations I may add-just an observation) if we hadn’t signed an £8m Defender from Juventus or wherever?
Here are the facts that we do know:
Brendan signed a new 4 year deal (there’s that £8m spend btw)
He is happy with his current squad (injuries aside)
He is happy with the level of player being brought in
The Club is actively targeting his choices of player that fit in with his vision of how we should play
Lastly he is ahead of Schedule having qualified twice for the Champions League in just over 12 months
Now whilst this may not fit in with a number of folk still bleating after the window it is fairly apparent he is happy enough with the situation and looking forward to the Season as a result?
The team has improved dramatically over the past 12 months and the navigation of the Champions League qualifiers has beenbetter than in recent years and given that this side put a show up last Season against a very fancied Man City I see no reason why we can’t put up a decent fight yet again against two of the Worlds best sides?
Anderlecht have had a poor start to their Season I believe Brendan is fairly confident we can secure European football after Christmas and as a result PERHAPS target our targets again in January?
I’m with Brendan there is plenty to be happy about even if we failed to add that big signing this time round?

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Yes,at over £2 million a year,I think he’s happy with his lot.Pitting his wits against er Hamilton and Ross County(great goalie-CG).Nice work if you can get it,toe the line.
P.S.Much poorer people,could you please donate to the charities while some are having five course meals and lovely wines in hospitality…

6 years ago
Reply to  Rob O'Keeffe

Were you not one of the guys on here screaming we spend millions on a player good enough for Europe?
How much do you suppose the will be on?

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Nope,screaming? Nope.Possibly asking for CL class players to be sourced by our “scouting system” by scouring the markets throughout the continents and bringing in some gems that don’t break Peter’s bank.Maybe a couple of defenders that are above average,cover for KT who takes some amount of punishment and a nice big forward(not injury prone) that Shorty can play off.Not too much to ask,is it?….

6 years ago
Reply to  Rob O'Keeffe

So quite prepared for the Club to spend millions on a defender who might make it work on the Park but not prepared to spend millions on a Manager proven to make i on and off the Park?

Just a bit hypocritical in mind that Rob.

6 years ago
Reply to  Rob O'Keeffe

make it ‘

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  Rob O'Keeffe

Thanks,Peter.He’ll be gone in 2,we won’t…….

P.S.Some of the new,not very good players at Liebrox are on big bucks so peanuts analogy not always correct.

FredCDobbs
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

never mind the stats, look at the quality of the football. For me thats the difference. This is the best football we have been playing for a decade or more. By the way for those who rekon celtic havent improved look at the way we tore Astana a new shitter. The return leg was never in doubt neither and we fucked them with no central defence.

onward and upward.

6 years ago
Reply to  FredCDobbs

Spot on Fred plenty to be optimistic about 😉
HH

6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

The football has been fantastic at times too Fred and perhaps something we all agree on?

Apart fae John obviously.

FredCDobbs
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

The good news is that everyone has already written us off for this CL campaign 😉 even some of our support. That can only be a good thing.

speed kills, big time

HH

Gerry
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Charlie you have used words like content and happy enough which is indeed what we should be. The concerns raised by fans over the last few days have been valid though; as a squad we are stronger on paper than this time last year and even the end of May. If Boyata and Simunovic had played 90% of our games together I’d be happy going into the CL as that may be the level of player we can get. But even returning from injury soon they will only be match sharp by the end of October.
And while I agree it’s tough to bring players to Scotland, I’m sorry that’s their job. If it was easy I could do it. A lot of our football overhead is on scouting, so find those players that are better than what we have, and will come to our club, or piss off and be useless elsewhere.
Btw if someone had said in May we’ll swap Simo for Sackho I’d have said and how much cash are we getting? £26m FFS!! Funny thing is the EPL isn’t the only place we need to shop, so whining about it is pointless. Over to the scouts then and see what they can find for January.

6 years ago
Reply to  Gerry

I agree Gerry like you I want the best we can get when we can get them.
I don’t think it’s down to the the clubs failure to scout them as I believe Brendan will already have a list of potential targets going into any window?
I think it comes down to availability and the will of these targets to come to Scotland?
Out League thanks to our SFA is a very difficult sell outside of our borders no one really thinks very much of the standard I don’t think?
As a League it’s underfunded and under sold by muppets who wouldn’t know what a negotiation was if it fell on their heid.
Our coefficient is ultimately inefficient and it’s causing us no end of difficulties when it comes to a draw in the big League.
Pot 4 means major problems for sides in our position you are getting put in with at least 2 sides capable of winning it.
No matter who we brought in that player would still have to be bedded in (how long that could take is impossible to guess) and would still have to face 2 or 3 of the worlds best attackers.
If the Managers says he’s comfortable with the situation then so am I because up till now he’s been proven to be more right than wrong.
This side we have on their day (or night as the case may be) can give any side a game.
That’s a major step forward in the space of a year.
I hope we still get busy in Jan the cash is there so at least that’s no obstacle.
HH

Cortes
6 years ago

Caption: The original flat back four.

Pat Higney
6 years ago

Caption: “mammy, the toilets are blocked at the stadium again, there’s a wee queue waiting to use our loo!”

Pat Higney
6 years ago

Great point reference the SFA and our players, such a one sided relationship. It would be the most ironic statement in Christendom if we did pull the players out and the SFA countered with Celtic being underhand and using our strong position to force them to be held to ransom to achieve an agenda!

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago

Toeing the party line,for over £2m a year,perish the thought.Scotland strip looks quite nice unlike some right tat I’ve seen recently.

Caption: Bobby Sands R.I.P.

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  Rob O'Keeffe

It was “towing the party line” and I assume he was referring to the bloated rotten carcass of the PR Dept. 🙂

Uralius
6 years ago
Reply to  Rob O'Keeffe

Remember that people tartan thing?

Tim Buffy
6 years ago

Haw, Fergus! Thae bastards in the hooses can see the gemme fur nuthin.
Ye’ll need tae dae sumthin aboot it.
A big stand wid be a guid idea.

Jez
6 years ago

Caption:-
‘I told you not to feed them!’

Monti
6 years ago

LAWWELL OUT!

6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

🙂 🙂 🙂

6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

What as in “out” out?
I thought for a second there that the heated driveway dig was some sort of euphemism x 😉 x

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Nah, not at mo, as we may need him as an emergency CH in CL.

6 years ago
Reply to  The Cha

Why not he’s been sweeping up the millions the last two years with terrific efficiency;-)

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Boom! boom!

Uralius
6 years ago
Reply to  The Cha

Brilliant lads.

Martin67
6 years ago

Caption: In the heat of Barrowfield

SteveNaive
6 years ago

Silence around the Celtic make up and success of the Scotland team is deafening. The MSM and the blazers, so desparate to get to Russia, can only focus on that. Inside they must be churning but wait til they miss out…guess whose fault it will be ?
Johnny Hayes…sorry, not from my balcony.Not good enough to come on and change it in the league never mind CL.
Get Christie back.

6 years ago
Reply to  SteveNaive

Hayes was Aberdeens best player for nearly 4 years his ability changed many a game for them.
You might not rate him but our Manager obviously does.
Good luck to the guy hope he smashes it in a Celtic top.

Uralius
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

I think he is very underrated. He can play traditional or inverted on either wing and he’s good movement through the middle. I hope he gets the game time he needs to gel with his teammates.

6 years ago
Reply to  Uralius

Agreed Uralius he can also play at Left Back when required.
Which given the treatment KT has been receiving recently in games is probably a good thing?

Yoker Bhoy
6 years ago

There are several ways to protest against SFA corruption and incompetence but I’m against the idea of using Celtic players as pawns in such a protest because the bottom line is that they want to play for their country and that’s good enough for me.

Uralius
6 years ago
Reply to  Yoker Bhoy

I agree I always hated seeing children used as weapons in divorces.

Turkeybhoy
6 years ago

Celtic fans turn their backs en masse at the sight of Ian Ferguson keeking oot his windae,in Janefield St.

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  Turkeybhoy

His arse was oot the windae? Ooft, not a pretty picture.

jimmybee
6 years ago

If any Celtic supporter is not happy with the way things are on the playing side, then it is time for you to stop going. I dont really know what more you expect from a manager and the players.

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  jimmybee

If you mean how the current players and manager perform then I agree.

If you mean that it doesn’t matter that we don’t have a fit CH then I profoundly disagree.

The last minute panic pursuit of Denayer and the Croat would also suggest it was full on headless chicken mode in play.

ROB O'KEEFFE
6 years ago
Reply to  jimmybee

New players, not injury prone or stepping stone type…

6 years ago
Reply to  ROB O'KEEFFE

Any player that comes to Celtic who is Champions League standard will have one eye on their next move.
Unless of course they are over 32 and looking at us as the last chance saloon.
Maybe you should start naming these players in case the Club are reading these posts and unaware of their availability?

The floor is yours…

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Above my pay grade…..but give me the boodle and I would search the planet to bring quality players in,unlike Yootube Chris Davies….

6 years ago
Reply to  Rob O'Keeffe

So in effect you don’t know of any and because you have shown your arse you now deflect the subject by focusing on and slating Brendan’s No 2?

Get back to yer X box Rob and leave the running of Celtic to the Professional’s.

jimmybee
6 years ago

Caption: old board say 23.000 attended.

jimmybee
6 years ago

Was that pic not the centeneray season match against dundee?

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago
Reply to  jimmybee

No, the old roof is still there which was replaced in 86.

jimmybee
6 years ago

Cheers m8

Jez
6 years ago

Caption:-
‘Brendan is not the messiah, he’s a very naughty naughty boy!’

Jez
6 years ago
Reply to  Jez

That should have read :-

‘Brendan is not the Messiah, he’s a very very naughty boy!’

mike
6 years ago

The sun comes up at Celtic Park,
the east end dugs begin to bark,
the grounds men up with the early lark,
why is it the dugs do bark,
its only O Keefe the west end shark,
looking for somewhere his roller to park,
Roller you say, aye steam roller. anywey where wis I,
cultivating, preening, marking the lines,
cutting the grass with sharpened tines.

Polis instructions by Inspector McLeod,
polis sheltering from the nimbus cloud,
control must be forced on the large Celtic crowd,
no flares, banners or songs will be allowed.

Supporters arrive at a steady pace,
bobbing and weaving singing Grace,
strips and pants gleaming bright,
the green and gold separated by white,

The game goes to plan,
another Celtic win,
another three points harvested in,
the highlight for me was sixty seven,
phones lit up, mahn that was heaven.

6 years ago
Reply to  mike

Quality 😉

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Good or bad?…..eyes right….

mike
6 years ago

50 million pounds for an average player,
50 million pounds for a player with 12 months left on his contract,
Near 200 million for a bampot,
Crazy, how can FFP rules allow such madness, how daft are chairmen to sanction that.
Over 1.2 billion pounds spent in one transfer window for one league,
They will get burned when live streaming comes in and reduces Sky and B.T. Watch all the David Murrays (shite) run for the hills and the taxpayer left to bail them out!
Post gone fishing, caught fuck all.

Dum dum dum dumbydooah.

mike
6 years ago

We attack as a team and we defend as a team (Brendan Rodgers.)

Monti
6 years ago
Reply to  mike

You give us all your money, buy everything from the club superstores, buy your season books, spend big in the food halls, stay as long as you can and spend as much as you can in the Kerrydale suite, don’t forget your paradise windfall tickets and match programme……in return ladies and Gentlemen we bring to you……Nir Bitton & Kristoffer Ajer.

” We try to be world class in everything we do ” – Lawwell.

6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

I can see how this year is going to pan out for you Monti….

LAWWELL OUT
PISH
LAWWELL OUT
PISH

Repeat x 52 weeks…

Monti
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

CS,
I can see how this year is going to pan out for you:

Eeeee

Aaawwww

Eeeeeeee

Awwwwwwwww

6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

You need a new joke book Monti Les Dennis wants his back.

ROB O'KEEFFE
6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Don’t forget to give plenty to the charities while we stand and laugh at you from our gangster filled hospitality suites, feckin joke…

6 years ago
Reply to  ROB O'KEEFFE

Welcome to the modern game.
Sold its soul a long time ago Rob.

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Sadly,true…..

6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Go watch the video released by Sheffield Utd via the Bleacher Report about what happens behind the scenes on Deadline day it’s on the twitter feed link at the top right of the page.
It’s a fucking nightmare for Clubs dealing with agents.

CarllJungleBhoy
6 years ago

Caption: “The big hoose must stay open.. wait,… naw.. wrang hoose”

6 years ago

‘ how much am I getting for reading this statement Peter’ Brendan Rodgers. How many times do people have to say we are not talking about competing with EPL teams. Everyone knows that is madness. It might be a sign of ambition if they competed with League 1 teams. This is the EPL deflection. ‘Players cost loads in England therefore we would be as well buying no one’ Aye right Brendan, Ajer will be ready and Boyata is a top notch defender and you are delighted with everything at Celtic Park Including the pies. I can’t afford a Masserati but it doesn’t mean I am going to start getting the bus. There are other options, you just have to work and look for them. It is called planning and preparation and can happen before August the 22nd.

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  john

Bang on.

It’s like the CL where the talk is how we can’t compete against the likes of PSG and Bayern rather than Anderlecht who we should be targetting.

6 years ago
Reply to  The Cha

Anderlecht currently si in 11th spot in their League with 1 win in 5 games.
I think we have more than enough about us to compete with Anderlecht bud.

If we haven’t we shouldn’t be anywhere near the Champions League.

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

It’s not just competing, it’s beating (in a non-violent sense)and finisher higher than them to (at least) gain Europa League progress.

6 years ago
Reply to  The Cha

I’m fairly confident that if we turn up for both games that we will.
I would be hopeful we could perhaps nick a result at home against one of the other two as well?
A backs to the wall shit or bust effort like Barca 2012.
Anything is possible?
A good run in the Europa would benefit the fringe players with less experience also.

The Cha
6 years ago

Caption: “You cunts over there in the Director’s Box doing bugger all and taking hundreds and thousands out of the club, we’ll soon replace you with others who’ll take nothing like that”.

Monti
6 years ago

A real Celtic would be aiming to win our group, not sneak into the Europa with our tails between our legs!

Until Desmond & Lawwell fuck off and are replaced with people who put the dressing room first, we will just always be glad of the invite.

Celtic should be stronger than what we are on the continent.

” Build a side for Europe and Scotland will take care of itself ” – Jock Stein.

ROB O'KEEFFE
6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Totally correct..

bgbhoy
6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

I get that mate I do…

but even the English premier league clubs have not been competing in the ucl recently

what right do we have in this current league?

Monti
6 years ago
Reply to  bgbhoy

bgbhoy,
I don’t want us to spend recklessly chasing European success, i just think we have weaknesses that we could solve with the introduction of higher calibre players.
Not world stars, just better than what we have!

HH

6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

I’m fairly certain we tried to Monti and had the deal with Coetzee come off I think there would be less moaning about the window given we retained all of the players we want to keep?
If the type of player we want become available then we will pursue it but the fact of the matter remains they must want to come to Celtic first?

bgbhoy
6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

I don’t see Rodgers as the kind of guy who would take no for an answer.. if he says he is happy I think he is

Europe will be another harsh lesson this year.. unless we through 30 million (that might get you 1 really great player) then 3rd is all we can hope for

6 years ago
Reply to  bgbhoy

We just threw £8-10m at Brendan in his new contract.
Money well spent methinks.
Low risk high gains 😉

Uralius
6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

The fact that Berra and Mulgrew are considered international defenders……

6 years ago
Reply to  Uralius

I actually said we should look at bringing Mulgrew back as a CB.
Not the quickest but knows how to defend.”

FredCDobbs
6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

we are

6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Monti you need a reality check.
We entered the draw in Pot 4 for numerous reasons but the act remains as a Pot 4 team your odds are increased greatly against qualifying for the later stages.
UEFA have ensured that the big money league sides have as easy a qualification as is possible.
In days gone by every name would have went into the draw and you might have had a real chance of a kind draw?
Not so now we are forever destined to play at least 2 major sides each time we get there.
That will continue to be the case whilst the rest of te Scottish Clubs fail to make inroads in Europe and our National side a laughing stock in International terms?
We have been punching above our weight for decades and it’s only getting worse as the Financial Chasm widens to even bigger extremes.
I don’t like it any more than you do however I and many others can accept that is how it is.
We go in and give it our all and hopefully take a few big scalps on the way?
Europa is our only route to success now I’m afraid tand as Mike has eluded to the Money is the priority so we can at least have a side worth the name of Celtic.

Monti
6 years ago

Caption: A young Pedro Caixinha looks on in fear at what the future holds.

mike
6 years ago

Jock Stein was the most forward thinking manager that ever walked this earth, but even he would struggle to lead a team against the obscene money that Brendan Rodgers has to compete against.
For me Celtic reaching the group stages of the C.L. is the holy grail, everything else is a bonus, mibbee the bed wetters should leave the managing of the team to Brendan, he is much more qualified than they are and if they don’t like to support the club then other clubs would more than welcome them.
Oh we hivny got this, oh we hivny got that, what a shame, get a life ffs or gtf.

6 years ago
Reply to  mike

Spot on.
I’m pretty certain the big man would have looked down on last Season with a smile as wide as the Clyde?
What a magnificent tribute this side gave to his and the Lions magnificent achievement.

Well said Mike.
HH

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

True,Big Jock and the Lions who have passed will feel even taller….

charlie
6 years ago
Reply to  mike

hail hail mikeybhoy

mike
6 years ago

That post above was the second one that never appeared, so I’m ofski.

ROB O'KEEFFE
6 years ago

I notice Celtic only give ST holders a short time to purchase packages then the prices shoot up for the nons, funny that, but World Class cash building…

charlie
6 years ago
Reply to  ROB O'KEEFFE

well buy a fuckin season book and you wulnae need tae greet ffs

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  charlie

Charlie,I thought about that,for a split second and decided not to buy into the corrupted Scottish “game”…..

D'Fhinnein Mick
6 years ago

A walk through the ages as 20th century technology meets 19th century housing and 17th century occupants.

Devoy45
6 years ago

Although there is plenty pish on this site, none of it has ever been spoken by jimmybee and Charlie Saiz. Celtic Football Club is in a good place right now, under Lawwell and Desmond. Perhaps we should be run by a Russian oligarch or a Qatari sheik? The best people to run the club are the Celtic fans themselves. That’s up to the younger generation. If the way we are run is good enough for Fergus McCann it is plenty good enough for me. Lawwell and Desmond brought us Brendan. Some on this site wanted David Moyes or Roy Keane, for feck sake, the same as a majority of Celtic supporters once wanted Lou Macari!

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  Devoy45

Pish.

Monti
6 years ago
Reply to  The Cha

😉

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  The Cha

Only Ralph wanted Lou…..

Monti
6 years ago
Reply to  Devoy45

” none of it has ever been spoken by Charlie saiz “?
Devoy, ( In my best Samuel L Jackson voice ) Motherfuckering bullshit

6 years ago
Reply to  Devoy45

Canny argue with any of that … 🙂 🙂 🙂

Cheque is in the post Devoy as agreed 😉

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Is Devoy toeing your line?…..

bgbhoy
6 years ago
Reply to  Devoy45

well… weve moved on but……

6 years ago
Reply to  bgbhoy

… we’re still playing one up and high press with emphasis on the wide men.
I know no need to keep it going 😉
Here we go 7 in a row ….

bgbhoy
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

hahaha no issue with the system

just the dumpling trying to employ it

6 years ago
Reply to  bgbhoy

Agreed a far better Manager deploying it with much better results.
He did still get results though as the history books will show.
In a strange way it was probably a good thing Ronny did get the job as Brendan didn’t need to do the overhaul that Deila did?
The main thing is the titles kept ticking over and he RD brought in a few players that suit the system in place.
I have no problem with backing a Manager that at least tries to do the righ thing.
Rather that than some of the clowns we have had previously who delivered hee haw (for you Monti 😉 ) and put us back years with woeful results.

TicToc
6 years ago

Caption: (I know it’s not Paradise but allow poetic licence)

As Peter Pigeon said to Dermott Dove: “HaHaHa, look at the view we get for nothin’ and all them proles pay a fortune to be crammed into restricted viewing areas, HaHaHa; you’ll have another large Remy, Dermott? It’s free too”

TicToc
6 years ago

A truly brilliant Diary today, Ralph, and one that I hope achieves its aim; presumably to re-unite our mental supporters as we go into the new season after the silly season has upset the cidercart. Brendan’s statements have certainly reasssured me although I retain my views on our central defence. I was very hopeful when the Zagreb player Benkovic? was mentioned but, regardless, it’s now onwards and upwards, “walk on, walk on, with hope in your hearts…”
I’ll read the comments later and reiterate it was a typically brilliant Diary.
HH

6 years ago
Reply to  TicToc

I have come up with a cunning plan…
We play DeVries in goal v PSG and Bayern and have Gordon as a deep lying sweeper wearing another keeper top with the old 70s setup “Nearest the goal saves”.

Genius 😉

6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

NGS’

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

More of a cunning stunt.

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  TicToc

I believe your tongue is firmly in your cheek,there is to be no more toeing lines,unless it’s Ralph being told where to go by Peter(not the Saint)…..

6 years ago
Reply to  Rob O'Keeffe

Correct 😉

Devoy45
6 years ago

Thanks for the cheque Charlie Saiz.It will buy me a few more packs of Werthers.
For an auld fart, I’m surprised how the younger ones on this site can be reeled in. Here’s my best bait:
Mention Ronny Deila (the guy who got us fit and playing 4-2-3-1 and won us two on the way to 10 in a row).
Praise Efe Ambrose (the guy who played his heart out for us and like all defenders made a few mistakes)
Even slightly give credit to Lawwell or Desmond who are nowhere as bad as the Kellys of old.
Once, it was defending Broonie (I always have)
Once, it was defending Forrest (I always have)
Saying we can get better players by developing the good ones we already have.
Not saying “pish” as the height of cool wit.
Motherfucka? Well, you should keep your mommas indoors!

Here’s our best 11 when fit (3-5-2)
Gordon
Lustig/Simunovic/Tierney
Roberts/Brown/Rogic/Armstrong/Sinclair
Griffiths/Dembele
Hayes/Ntcham/McGregor/Forrest/Boyata all to figure.

Now, here is one unpishable statement:
Some of my ancestors died in An Gorta Mor.I am proud to support Celtic. I am proud of its heritage and purpose.It has enriched my un-rich life. My fellow Celtic supporters are (mostly) the salt of the earth. My health is not so good now but I would like to live to see 10-in-a-row.
C’mon you Bhoys in Green. 10 in a row! Hail,hail
Finally, I hope Tom Campbell is keeping well. We need some of his stuff on here.

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  Devoy45

Perceptive/Pathetic
Insightful/Insipid
Superb/Stupid
Honest/Hypocritical

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  Devoy45

I hope you see 10 and more in a row but please,please can you arrange a new goalie and new right back in the next window?
P.S.Ronny still Roars…

Yoker Bhoy
6 years ago
Reply to  Devoy45

I like the shape of your best XI + others to feature Devoy but don’t forget about our new sharpshooter (no airgun pun intended) Odsonne Edouard. I’ve just got a feeling that he could become sensational for us this season.

jimmybee
6 years ago
Reply to  Devoy45

Devoy lets hope we all live to see the bhoys reach 10 in a row. It will be extremley hard for us as the establishment will do all it can to stop us. But with the manager we have we will achieve it.
I am delighted Paddy is back, and the club nearly got him full time. But sadly its just another season loan.But lets enjoy him while we can.
Your starting squad is very strong but im still of the opinion Big Tom is an impact player instead of a starting 11 spot.
I would continue with Brendans trusted 4231.
Gordon
Lustig Jozo Boyata Tierney
Brown Ntcham
Roberts Armstrong Sinclair
Griff.
Young players Ralston Miller to come in at full backs. Eric, Ajer to cover centre backs.
Forrest Hayes to cover the wide areas
McGregor Bitton Rogic Benyu to cover the midfield area
Dembele and Edouard to cover the forwards.
I believe this is the strongest we have been for such a long time.
I can understand Brendan not worrying about the centre back positions, he trusts the players more than our fans do. We have to trust him and the players to do the best they can.
The south african was the top target it was a blow he isint fit enough.He coukd have been a good yin.
They players will give their all and we need to give them that backing back, instead of groans and moans when mistakes happen.
When we played with bitton and ajer, the midfield kept giving the ball away putting them under pressure. Im sure this was just one of those games.
Im excited about the champions league, i hope all our players play the way they can, if they do then we could be the shocks of the tournament being the underdog is the Celtic way it brings out the best in us.
There are many great teams across europe not in it,Arsenal Ajax etc lets enjoy it all, after all if theres gonnae be a show then the Glasgow Celtic will be there.
Cant wait.

Bgbhoy
6 years ago
Reply to  Devoy45

Totally unfit under deila auld bhoy. Acknowledged by players and new management alike. We where breathing out our arse last 30 mins of games

6 years ago
Reply to  Bgbhoy

Was that down to Deila or perhaps some were working harder than others?
You can get past the fact a clique developed under his time at Celtic and that clique had a serious influence in the dressing room.
His inexperience at this level was his Achilles and ultimately down fall.
The ideas were right as have been proven by Rodgers.
A fitter Celtic playing a high press and using a single striker are now hallmarks of the side.
The Opinions on Deila are split but the fact remains without his influence in changing the setup over 2 years Brendans alterations would have taken longer than they did.
Meanwhile the trophies ticked over so not as bad as some seem to think.
Deila aside the bulk of the arguments that raged in here were about the following:
1 Playing with 1 main striker
2 Dropping Commons
3 Sticking religiously to the same System

1 We still do and it’s been very successful
2 He never played again under Brendan
3 This is no longer the case as Brendan set up is more flexible

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago

He didn’t get the players fit. If you can remember, our players were blowing out of their arses after 40 minutes. All the dietary nonsense he presided over was dumped as soon as Rodgers arrived.

6 years ago

Players like Tierney and Griffiths thrived under Deila where as others never.
Thing is the system and approach Brendan favours were already in place when he got here.
He’s just moved it up a few gears and got rid of the problem areas Deila had.
Sinclair’s arrival had a large hand in that as the left side was the main problem area.
When he arrived the side was better balanced allowing us to utilise both wide areas in equal measure.
He got Forrest fit,Tierney bedded and Griffiths scoring for fun.
It wasn’t all as bad as some makeout.
He had his failings of course and could have handled the clique a bit better than he did.
His inexperience was his main failing in that respect.
Devoy is right though he still delivered the goods and kept the run rolling over.
If we do reach 10 IAR Deilas name will be there regardless of how you or I feel about it and that’s all that actually matters.

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

He didn’t get Forrest fit and was responsible for disillusioning many who were part of the squad. I remember getting shot down in flames for suggesting that the players we already had were more than capable of performing at a much greater level, rather than most suggesting a clear-out, when all that was required was a manager that was competent.

The Cha
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Don’t forget that the 53 (and counting) unbeaten domestic run is a joint effort between the Norwegian Blue and Brendan.

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

I have replied but the post has gone amiss. Needless to say, I think you really are a bit soft in the head when it comes to Deila. He was hopeless on so many levels.If you put him in the Aberdeen, St Johnstone and teams of that ilk during his stay at Celtic Park, he would have either been relegated or certainly been close to the drop.

Monti
6 years ago

Correct

6 years ago

I just deal in the facts Andy.
He took a ten from nowhere and won his own Countries Title with an unfancied side.
That’s the facts.
He won 3 titles a Celtic and certainly didled out of the chance to win one more.
History will be kinder to Deila than some of the Support.

6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

A team’
at Celtic’

Steve Jobbs ya twat.

Monti
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

CS,
Nurse Ratched

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago

In his recent interview,Ronny stated that John Collins was fitter than a few of the players when he came in.Some bought into his ways,Griffiths,as CS stated,not fat boy Commons though and others I’ll not mention but should be ashamed of themselves.

6 years ago
Reply to  Rob O'Keeffe

Commons Mulgrew and to a certain extent Brown downed tools I believe which was the beginning of the end for Deila.
Others thrived under Ronny like KT and Griffiths players who wanted to learn and up their game.
Griffiths 40 goals are a slap in the coupon for those who moaned for 2 years about playing 1 main striker?
No such complaints under Brendan as it continues to get results.
Deilas ideas were the right ones as has been proved to be the case under Brendan.
James Forrest was suffering injury after injury previous to Deilas arrival it was Deila who stated that perhaps resting him more and putting less strain on Forrest than Lenny previously would solve the issue.
That would have seemed to have fixed the problem.

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

Again you talk as if fact. I think I know a bit better than your goodself.

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago
Reply to  Rob O'Keeffe

Deila was a liar, plain and simple.

6 years ago

This one goes out to all the cowardly wife beaters and abusers out there in cyber land

https://youtu.be/O4rJUtJM3aM

Monti
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

What?

6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Just highlighting abuse through music 😉

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Bizarre.

6 years ago

Domestic abuse affects 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men in their lifetime.
I don’t find that bizarre I find that repulsive and shocking so when I listen to a piece of music like the one above that broaches on the subject I think it’s only right to highlight it.
There could be someone suffering abuse reading this right now and only needs a wee push to seek help?
For those who perpetrate such things same goes for them.
I grew up in an environment where this affected me as a child whilst it wasn’t in my own home it was close to home so I feel quite strongly about the issue.
If me highlighting it on here makes you feel uncomfortable then of course I apologise but I won’t apologise for highlighting it.
HH

henkesdreadlocks
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

I find it bizarre that you would randomly post about such an issue on a football fans site.I have absolutely no discomfort in you highlighting it, but as I stated,I find it slightly unusual.

charlie
6 years ago
Reply to  Charlie Saiz

ffs did you have a follow follow moment sodgerboy

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago

Spain v Italy on ITV4….some classy football…..

6 years ago

Coetzee was an 800 grand prospect who was not going to be considered for a CL place until Peter slapped Rodgers into shape and told him Roberts is costing money and instead of calling Lawwell out in public Rodgers elevated a 20 year old South African who has never player in Europe to a first pick to placate the stupid ‘In Brendan we trust’ brigade. Brendan has been dragged into the tent and is just like Deila, a mouthpiece for the board. We will see in the next month. I am willing to be wrong. I hope I am wrong but I have a sneaky suspicion that Celtic will receive a bit of a thumping in Brussels, ending the CL for another year. Over the past 5 years Celtic have a 20 million profit on players. To go with the CL money and the season tickets. A lot of money. With more to come. Plenty of cash for DAimlers and heated driveways. I will be absolutely stunned if Rodgers is at Celtic next summer if results are embarrassing in Europe. He will see it as pointless. I mean 10 in a row and beating absolute shite every week , only fools like us can get excited about this.

jimmybee
6 years ago
Reply to  john

Bring it on win lose or draw. We are at the top table where a lot of clubs want to be but arent. So what if Peter gets a salary you dont like, tough shit.
If you think Brendan is a mouth piece for the board i believe your way of the mark.
Its going to be great i for one cant wait.

charlie
6 years ago
Reply to  jimmybee

ime wae you jimmy b

6 years ago
Reply to  john

80 Senior games under his belt and 23 full International caps at 20.
Wanyama was an £800k prospect by the way with 50 Senior games under his belt and 11 International Caps when he arrived at Celtic.
That panned out ok.
As for the rest of your downbeat pish… pass.

6 years ago

20 caps for South Africa, playing against who? African Nations football is rubbish. A very low standard. He has not played football to a professional standard. So we just pray that every signing of this standard makes out. Not a full-proof strategy. I suppose it is the kind of strategy that makes you 20 million net.

charlie
6 years ago
Reply to  john

an awful lota african nations guys are playin all over the world ffs

6 years ago
Reply to  charlie

Spot on.

FredCDobbs
6 years ago
Reply to  charlie

not at ibrox

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  john

Sorry old chap,there is no next,oh sh.t……

charlie
6 years ago

psg will come over thinkin who the fuck are these guys and weel bite them oan the arse and frighten the life oot the lottathum efter that its game on COYBIG

charlie
6 years ago

brendan knows what we need but he is sure as fuck no gonny spend money oan mugs so hav a little faith tims ……..huns kiss ma arse

charlie
6 years ago

right now ide take third in the group cause imo we could win the europa this year ye need tae walk afore ye can run

portpower
6 years ago

Happy Father`s Day to all the Aussie Celts.

Brekky in bed:
Vegemite and runny eggs on toast with red sauce.

Fingers crossed for a bottle of single malt for afters.HH

charlie
6 years ago

port hows tricks mate and hows wee spencer dain have ye got him as crazy as you yet he he

portpower
6 years ago

G`day Charlie,how they hangin`?
The wee mahn`s like his Pop,a blether Bhoy.

charlie
6 years ago
Reply to  portpower

port tell the wee crackpot a wis askin furum

portpower
6 years ago

Here`s a wee song for Vinegar John.
Once bitten twice shy John.Though we`ll no admit it.

Enjoy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3zXXKqn1Qc

Big fit talentless athletes is not the Brendan way.
We`ve all our boots there,sitting and a waiting.HH

charlie
6 years ago

john the zombie is a runt -ralph should really geeum a dunt -but hes jeest actin like a cunt- so fuckum ……….ha ha ha ha hows that for poetry ya mugs

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  charlie

Poor,please desist from further efforts……please…..

charlie
6 years ago

ma bhoys say fuckum da dont let a depressed hun put ye aff e tims ha ha ha ha ….ime no wan for grassin bot imho that john wans a zombie

charlie
6 years ago

no that ime good at judging character but sometimes a think yees ar awe fuckin huns on heer wae yer depressin talk ……up the ra ya mugs yees ha ha ha ha ime still laughing

Rob O'Keeffe
6 years ago
Reply to  charlie

Please desist from calling people mugs,that’s Peter’s job and they’re known as ST holders,thank you.

charlie
6 years ago

god bless the GREEN BRIGADE cause a wish a wis young enough tae run wae they crackpot but alas mrs charlie says a dae enough dishin oot mike the fermers rusled lamb ha ha

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