The Lotw Review 06/07
The league was won, at a canter, until recently, as was the Scottish Cup which had a few scary moments and we were a 120 seconds from going oot. The icing on the cake was qualification for the CL last 16.
So it’s probably Europe that this season will be best remembered for. That night against Man Utd was a perfect game. It had everything that you want as a fan. Tension, excitement and elation. Naka scored and it was like hanging on in a cup final. 10 mins from the Holy Grail.
We were like Indiana Jones getting chased by that big baw and nearly so nearly getting caught. I’ve spoken so often aboot how CP reacted when Arfur saved that pen from Saha. The place shook so much a tsunami-hit Greenock. I still get goose pumps thinking aboot it.
The game before against Benfica, oor performance was so guid it should be framed and mounted in the Tait gallery. It was a European performance from what looked like a mature European team. It was played at pace and directness with bucketfuls of gallusness. It gave us hope we could replicate that kind of form all the time.
How wrong could we be. Oor away form in the group stages was shocking apart from Manchester. It wisnny until oor trip to Milan did the team seem to grasp how to defend away from home in Europe and oor manager seemed to guess how to set his team up.
We got a lot of kudos for oor performances in Europe this year. We were difficult to overcome at home and oor performance against Milan in the San Siro gave us hope that wie better players in the midfield area’s and bit of pace upfront we may start nicking things away from home.
The domestic fair was a mixed bag. Well, it only really became a mixed bag after we won the bloody thing, which was in November or August when we trampled PLG rejuvenated 2-0 at CP. A game both KM and The Grav looked like players.
After defeat at swinecastle in the second game of the season, the hoops went 28 games unbeaten. A run that went roond the hooses twice and where we also gained the knack of going a goal doon and coming back either to win or draw.
Who can forget Hearts at CP when, Scotland’s numero uno palmed the baw into the back of the net or the second half salvage job that the hoops performed at Easter Road? Salvage jobs became the norm, Tynecastle as well 1 doon at halftime- as the team showed they had grit, determination and no shortage of talent to come through this period unbeaten.
It tailed off towards the end. Performances and legs got weary and defeats were more forthcoming than victories. But I’m a fan so I have already forgot aboot that part. Also this has been oor worse domestic performance against r*ngers for many a year. That has too change next season. 1 win, 1 draw and 2 defeats is poor against a poor r*ngers side.
The cups. We gave up the CIS trophy after a defeat on pens against Fawkirk. A game, which both teams didnae deserve to lose. We have played worse this season and won. The Scottish Cup nestles in CP again after a run, which saw us beat Dumbarton, Livi, Inversenkie, ST Johnstone and Dunfermline. 4 lower division teams, if ye count Dunfermline.
The game against Inversenkie was the highlight. We were so poor in that game another exit was staring us in the face wie 120 seconds to go. Upped popped oor reformed h*ns to save the day and probably cemented their place in the Cup Final 11. So Celtic, so us, in the Scottish Cup. The other games were played at the time where grind and grit was getting us through games so they were all instantly forgettable.
It’s been a great season. As GS say’s 3 trophies won, if ye count the CL and discount the last few months, which we will. So as is now the norm in these situations I’m going to go through the Double winning team…
Arfur Boruc- The Pole in the goal has become the best Celtic goalie since Simpson. In his two short years he has shown ability between the sticks that we thought that them across the river only were privy to. CL nights were his best moments but domestically he kept us alive wie saves late on in games when we were hanging on to 1 goal leads.
Perfect season then for Arfur? Nae, he sold two goals against the h*ns which I will hold against him. But he gets extra points for being as mad as a brush and for his own personal flag day.
Rating 9
Lee Naylor- Journeyman from Wolves we cried. Maist natural left back we have had in decade we cried by the time November came aboot. He has an engine, he likes a tackle, he is ok on the baw and like any player wishing to endear themselves to the hoops support wears his heart on his sleeve. His interview when he signed summed up the guy. He was overwhelmed to have joined us. He couldnae stop smiling. A smile that was as broad as anyone the day we won the league.
He tailed of towards the end but who didnae?
Rating 8
Mick McManus- Played for a few months wie an injury that others would have succumbed too. He was like a bear wie his right foot stuck in a trap. In Europe I thought he would be weak. He proved me wrong. His performances in the CL were, while not faultless, and were guid enough to make me think he will do a job for many years to come.
Distribution has been poor this season and he has looked shaky the last few months but I’ll put that doon to his partner in crime. Also oor lack of clean sheets means his rating is not higher.
Rating 7
Elvis- Now never loved Elvis. Always thought he was an average centre half who had a non descript career but always shone in average SPL teams. Apart from a monumental performance on his return to swinecastle he has done nuthin to change ma mind.
In fact he know pays for playing for Celtic as when he used to man handle BBJ or Sutty he would get away wie it. Now he gets pulled up for it regular. Distribution poor lacks pace but in times of siege defending he is ok. Cup final was a game for him to forget.
Signed only because Balde broke his leg and makes Balde look decent. Are we hoping Gretna is looking for a Braveheart?
Rating 4
Gary Caldwell- another “dodgy” signing when he was announced. Some saw a baw playing centre back not seen since Stubbs others a bombscare. During the course of the season we saw both. Injury robbed him of continuing his guid form and on his return his rusty ness and lack of mobility was exposed at full back.
Apart from that game in Lisboa I canny remember him having many howlers at CL level or domestically- he annoyed Jim Jeffries, which is always a plus- and maybe it’s no coincidence that we stopped playing fitba through the middle when he got injured. Will GS see him as a midfielder or 1st choice CB remains to be seen?
Rating 6
Bobo Balde- Never really seen much of Bobo in what could be his last season gracing the hallowed turf of CP. 6 games was his lot as Caldwell, Mick and injury all took it’s toll. I feel GS has already earmarked the £30,000 a week for elsewhere.
He done nuthin wrong when he did play, the usual failings were there but he was just Bobo.
Rating 5
Darren O’Dea- Young guy, big future. Debut at left back then shone at CB in the league and CL then struggled at LB for the last two games. GS seems to have a tendency to play guys who are not full backs at full back. Anyway, a CB who scored a few goals and snuffed oot Inzaghi and Gillardino in Milan are not to be sniffed at.
Will be aiming for Elvis zoot suit next season.
Rating 7
John Kennedy- Faultless display on his return against Killie, followed up wie two rusty looking ones in the final two games. Still looked better than Elvis had done though for the few months before that. Next season can’t come quick enough for him.
Again, will be aiming for Elvis zoot suit next season.
Rating 5
Mark Wilson- injury blighted season where his promise has been blunted wie lacklustre displays, which have been mostly due, we hope, to returning to soon from injury. Showed determination playing 35 mins wie a broken foot at Old Trafford but that knackered his season.
Rating 4
Paul Telfer- never thought the adage we’re going to miss you when yer gone would apply to the Telfmiester but it does. When he was gone we saw that he did nuthin wrong while he was there. A player who knew his limitations but was steady, unspectacular and reliable.
His last game was against AC in the San Siro. He wasn’t outplayed and he played as if he was facing Grimsby in the Simod Cup. He just sank to his knees had a wee look around him at the final whistle and left quietly.
Rating 7
JJPD- Looks ok. Scored a cup final winning goal. Unsure aboot him defending but he looks the part going forward. Solid cover for next season in the SPL only. Don’t think he has enough in his locker to be 1st choice.
Rating 5
Aiden McGeady- Oor Macca’s love child started off great then faded quicker than an evicted Big Brother contestant. Infuriating habit of disappearing in big games. His form up until the New Year was great, he has improved from previous seasons, has added the knack of scoring goals to his game, not enough mind you, and is the most natural talent we have produced in decades. Still lacks the final baw and maybe awareness of the game in general. On his day though he is a joy to behold.
Tommy Burns said he has the talent to do whatever he wants. When he starts doing it in big games then we have a player as long as he keeps progressing. I fully expect him to better next year.
Rating 7
Derek Riordan- Unfairly a bit part player, but when called upon his natural eye for goal shone through. His goals record is guid and for a while the glamour for him to be JVOH strike partner reached biblical proportions. He knows the support love him, see the cup semi final, but does oor manager love him?
Questions have been asked aboot his temperament, attitude and the fact that he might be struggling to adapt to being at a big club. After the last game of the season, GS had a go a certain players. The week later Deek was an unused sub in the cup final.
Could Deek’s Celtic career be coming to an end?
Rating 6
Jiri Jarosik- Now, here’s the enigma. Jiri was a centre midfielder who only played once or twice as a centre midfielder. In both games, I can remember, he done well. He has been used as a winger, in the hole and a centre forward. He never impressed in any.
He will now be used to recoup monies spent on Scott Broon. Not a failure just misunderstood by the manager.
Rating 2
The Grav- Blue chip baldy who has shown flashes of play making ability. Blue Chip baldy who has shown all the signs of a dug chasing a polly poke in the wind full of Tizer and Caramac. Either guid or bad never in between. Another who will be visiting estate agents doon sooth very soon.
Not misunderstood, just no very guid most of the time.
Rating 3
Neil Lennon- Final season, a season too far for some. His performances in Europe showed his worth his performances against lesser SPL teams showed what he lacked. Lenny is a dinosaur in the modern game. His position as a defensive mid is a role for athlete’s wie speed of thought and a range of passing far above Lenny.
Still all the pro’s in the know say he was a leader; an integral part and he will be missed. Sure he will as the away fans will have nae one to boo. He bowed oot a winner but a subbed one. Say’s it all.
Rating 6
Paul Hartley- Oor Zico, dummied the H*ns and joined us in Jan. He has never reached the heights of his last couple of years in a Hearts jersey and looks mair like Paul Hartley of Hibs. Needs a decent pre-season and an explosive start to next season or we will begin to doubt signing players from the SPL is worth the bother or that his guid few season where just flukey.
Rating 3
Evander Sno- Built like a boxer tackles like a flyweight Jessie. Some fantastic performances, some dodgy but that’s to be expected from a 19 year old rookie. Again, the two games against Milan made him. He didnae look oot of place those nights and it look like he had learned from his rabbit in the headlights performance against Benfica away.
Rating 6
Naka- “turning Japanese, I’m turning Japanese I really think so…..” so we were this season. The man produced the best 25 minutes performance I have seen since Lubo against Dundee Utd in December. He scored the goals that won us the league and qualified us for the CL last 16. He can change games wie a flick of his Beckhamesq left boot.
He was more prominent this season than last. He is the only un-droppable in the team. When we look back on this season we will remember Naka…
Rating 10
JVOH- Injury has probably robbed us of making a decent judgement on the big man. His legs and hammies seem as delicate as a china tea set. Before he was caught wie a dose of the Phil O’Donnell’s he was a perfect focal point. When he returned he came into a struggling team, lacking ideas apart from lumping aimless baws up to him.
His goal record speaks for itself. Next season we hope to see the early version of him and not the Phil O’Donnell one. Oh and if he gets a decent strike partner
Rating 7
Kenny Miller- unfortunately oor doubts aboot him where confirmed. Every second touch was a tackle and he lacked a killer instinct in front of goals. In a season when we didnae create many chances the fact that Kenny needed 15 chances to score 1 he was doomed from the start.
He had a purple spell, scored in Europe and against his former employers he also kept us in the cup. His fantastic work rate willnae make up for lack of goals. But he was oor best player in the cup final. Enough to save him though?
Rating 4
The Beats- Play, score, injured for two months. Touch that sometimes-matched Kenny’s. He has ability I’m sure of it. Just he will need to take his injury prone hammies elsewhere to prove it. Just to inconstant to make it at the top level. Will be seen at CP playing for Motherwell in 10 years time…
Rating 3
Magic- The pole who scores the goals was sadly absent this year. The quickest he has moved since Jan was when he was jumping around on the podium when we collected the league trophy and when we collected the Scottish Cup. He would have been the perfect foil for JVOH if he wisnny injured.
Played well against Benfica at home and eh….i canny think of any other game he played well, oh he scored the winner against the sheepies at home. Eh, that’s it.
Rating 2
Forza The Hoops
posted by Keving at Thursday, May 31, 2007
109 Comments:
First?
That was the season that was ....
For me, last season like that one before, was satisfying from the point of view of winning the League.
The other cups are a bonus and a decent European run is the cherry on the cake.
On the other hand, apart from a few exceptions, the week in/week out performances have been dire to watch.
If I was being cynical, I could say that our Gordy has had certain things in his favour regarding his 2 league wins.
Season 05/06: The Bratislava debacle left a team geared for a European campaign with only the domestic scene to contend with.
A clear advantage over the huns who struggled to compete on both fronts.
Season 06/07: The PLG effet as well as the Hearts implosion gave Celtic the initiative which they took. But would Celtic/GS have got away with the results of the last few months if there were one or two teams pushinhg for the title?
Granted, you can only beat the teams in front of you but I still have lingering doubts.
For me Season 07/08 will be the test of the real worth of GS as manager of Celtic.
We will be involved on the European (hopefully) and domestic fronts. The huns are rebuilding for a stern physical challenge. Other teams like Hearts, aberdeen and Hibs are always up there challenging.
If we can repeat this season's silverware plus a last 16 CL along with the performance levels we all want to see, then I will be convinced.
See me? See hard to please?
Six
I never reviewed GS my reasoning is 4 trophies in two years means he has been successful. Yes, at times we have been poor and of course there are circumstances, which factored in to us winning the league at a canter.
But in 05/06 the team looked like it was improving, 06/07 we signed players to improve the team and they have failed in terms of increasing the entertainment levels but succeeded in trophy terms.
Bottomline is we are disappointed in GS’s signings and the fitba we had to endure. I’m GS is disappointed in this as well. I also think if the race would have went to the wire we would have still had the desire and hunger. I think it was shown in the Killie game and towards the end of the cup final.
The greatest testament to this team is 05/06 the h*ns struggled playing in Europe and then playing domestically. We didnae. Unbeaten after every CL group game in the League.
That shows a team wie guts and spirit if not a guid bit of skill. Think GS deserve credit for his 1st choice team having the mindset of not knowing when to give in during that spell.
But they all deserve a kicking for the end of the season…..:-)
When was the Celtic View player of the year? I think that I went for McGeady. Obviously I put a curse on him. :-)
Who would you not expect to better in the team?
Artur, Naka and...?
The others have to hold on to their position. There are a few who are still the choice of the boss. Mick, Lee Naylor, JVoH. Of the new guys Brown will play. That leaves five positions up for competition. Two at the back, two in midfield and one up front. It`s up to the players to win the positions!
First, they need a good holiday!
:-)
agree with most of your ratings for the season.
regarding the signings for next season i am happy so far.
brown will obviously give us something extra in midfield and should be a great success.
mcdonald i believe will do very well, does anyone else think he is very like maloney the way he plays and runs at people. he also has a massive bum as well just like shaun.
killen is a good signing for nothing. he gives us more of a phsical pressence, knows wot the spl is all about and scores goals.
hopefully now we can get a "WOW" signing possibly 2 with another really good midfielder and forward coming in if possible and a few going in the opposite direction and i will be delighted.
appiah, fletcher or koumas for midfield.
bellamy, frei or mackay for upfront.
sorry i'm getting excited and dreaming now but u never know.
Ian- it was a few weeks back, Naka won it wie Aiden the young player.
I agree wie yer undroppables but these bhoys are there on merit and reliability. Broon is a stick on starter. If we have 6 reliable players then rotating the other 5 should not be a problem as long as they are off decent quality.
Seven
Ratings I must admit everyone of the players got at least one mark off for the end of the season.
Skippy the larged arse kangaroo!!!!! I’m having that!!!! Yer right though he could play from a wider area, pace and directness.
Wie regards to Killy the nature of the deal makes me think we had a knock back from someone and he was next doon on the list.
WOW signings. Depends on who goes oot but it hink we have another 3 to go. 2 WOW and one who could do well.
I want one to be Fletcher and the other to be Bellamy…..but I like Komas and Barton….
I watched the Celtic v Blackburn game last night from Ewood Park on Celtic Tv. I was struck by the energy and power the hoops played wie that night. Nae great pace in the team but the closing doon of players was awesome.
That is something team 3 has too have. Mair energy.
...and passion, Kevin, don't forget the passion.
That's a prerequisite when you play for the Celtic. How many have got it?
Robbie Fowler`s agent is a fly man. I hope! Heard on Five Live that Celtic are in for RF. I hope it can be classified as a dodgy rumour.:-/
oh, and the willingness to turn up at Inverness on a Wednesday night in darkest February
:o)
Six aye we need passion. I'm sure some have got it. See Ian's six mainstays for next season.
Ian- i just got e-mailed the Robbie Fowler story.
Find it hard to fathom i mean what do we want wie a washed up scally property developer....?
Skippy the larged arse kangaroo lines up today for the Soccerroos against Uraguay taking the jersey from Mr 80percent.
\o/ \o/ \o/
That's the way to do it!
Otherwise, your ratings Kevin: Naka should be on 9 just like Artur, unless you wanted to give him 11 initially
:o)
I did want to give Naka 11...did i not say the ratings were oot of 12:-)Nae..Arfur went doon to an 8 but got an extra point for bashing into fergie wie a champions flag...
Skippy the large arsed Kangaroo replacing Viduka who is moving from the smoggies to the geordies...for an 80%er he has got some signing on fee's in his time..
Brrrrraaaaaaaaaaaazzzzzzzzzziiiiiiilllll...sorry went all John McBeath there...
Had a quick swatch at the Australian fitba' web site - pretty neat.
Especially the Matildas - widna mind a, erm, waltz with that Joanne Peters!
Sorry to lower the tone of the thread, lads (too much time on my hands when the boss is away).
I’m probably missing something regarding the appointment of Smith. In fact I feel the appointment is in line wie a number of appointments that have been regular in Europe over the years where ex-players get chief exec positions.
Now I’m sure all of them haven’t had experience of running big businesses and I’m sure Smith’s inner dealings wie the meeja, as an agent and his educational background, account and business degree means he is probably better qualified than most ex-players for that type of role.
Now, I don’t listen to him in the meeja, I have never heard his comments aboot him not hearing offensive songs or him bringing Celtic into the debate. If he did do that then he is just doing what the meeja in this country do as see Gerry McNee wie the corrupt Blatter yesterday.
I know nuthin of his links wie the RST.
But, for me the reaction of certain boards reeks of scaremongering and paranoia. We are shooting the horse withoot it running it’s race and breaking it’s leg.
It’s a case of wait and see.
Smith must score...
Not so sure.
Seems a bit lightweight for the job, but who knows, they are all numpties in blazers at the SFA anyway.
One thing is sure, he is no longer on 26quid a week.
On a more important subject, seems that Joanne Peters is Swedish
:o)
Gordon Smith was a pundit who was always fair to Celtic until they started winning things. His attitude changed somewhat from then.
Good call Kevin, he is the new `Director of Football` of the SFA. :-)
Pat Nevin could have done it too!
Agree..Mr Smith is an Ex Brighton player not really the same Kudo's as what's on the Kaiser or Platini CV's.
Still if he comes a knocking wie injustice then he will feel ma wrath. But until they i will keep a safe distance and let play the play commence.
Had a look at the Matilda's...better looking than the English women fitba team....
oh naw...i'm John McBeath again...sexist, racist and judgmental....
Ian
Is that the same Pat Nevin who stated before he took the job at Motherwell that...
He was no longer a Celtic fan due to the support being rife wie secterian bigots?
Still, he has a great taste in music....
Sectarian bigots? Surely Motherwell top that league!
Musical taste. Does that include BOTOB? :-)
I'm sure in Mr Nevins younger days, like us all, he did partake in that little ditty.
Nae use denying it, we are all sons of the jungle....
This is the only fitba free month of the year with the friendlies and league starting next month. Let`s bask in the relative quiet!
Fitba' free month?
Shurely shum mishtake?
Fairies V Scotland
Matildas V Korea
Apologies! I was looking from my point of view although let it be said that I go to Scotland home games as it makes me feel great not to be a member of the tartan army! :-)
Any truth in the "Doumbe away" rumour?
Maybe he doesn't fancy Inverness on a Wednesday night in darkest February, which is fairly understanable when you hail from Cameroon.
Oh well, if it means I can now stop drinking Perrier wi' a slice of lennon...
A lurker on this site told me that yesterday regarding JJPD. I huvnae read it confirmed and the lurker is still adament that Robbie Keane is joining Celtic..:-)
If we have better line up, he is no great loss to tell you the truth.
He didnae do enough to be a must have...
A new 5 year deal at Spurs! That would be difficult to believe that he would rip that up to play in the SPL.
The players signed should be better than what is currently available. I`m not totally behind signing players from the SPL when there are good players in reserve waiting for the chance.
When signings are made think about Bjarnasson, Wilson and Sno.
Totally, agree players signed should be better than what is currently available. Looking at his scoring record this season, Killen is better than Beats and Miller. I think there GS will have to be hard on some to get them moving elsewhere.
And, if the yougnsters are good enough they will play - look at Frosty this year. Look forward to seeing more of Bjarnasson next season.
We need a squad of 22 players with no passengers.
Hoping for a draw in tonight's France v Ukraine. But looking forward to see how 19 year old Nasri fits in just behind Anelka, in a 4-2-3-1.
He's being hailed as the new Zidane, still very young in years but he plays with an old head. Exciting prosect indeed.
Vive le fitba'
:o)
Skippy's team lose 2-1 to Uruguay by seemingly he played the full 90 and "performed with distinction".
30th?
France and Italy both won but Ukraine lost. If the Scottish team can win in the Faroes then it can be an interesting Autumn with three big home games to come.
I`ll miss the crunch Ukraine match but what to do, go to Hampden or visit Rome with my wife?
I think we know the answer.
Happy to be mediocre? England bring back Beckham and the media circus starts again. Oh what a shambles. :-)))
Forza Celtic, forca Sevilla.
Carling on the Celtic top will be a thing of the past as a ban on alcohol advertising on football jerseys is announced.
22 Players with no passengers - can see a number having top leave including most of those signed in the last 12 months. Doubt it will happen.
Loving the read as usual and if Carling is dumped then great but I hope that what ever we do is seoparate to TFOD.
No more joint deals as that is complete nonsense.
Hail hail one and all
Ian, isn't the ban on alcohol advertising on jerseys just for kids?
Even so maybe they've got XXL in kids sizes too :0)
Don't see why we can't do a separate deal for the jersey ads, we are already going down separate avenues for the shirt deals. Anything that can be done to get away from the OF tag is fine with me. Can you imagine some big Japanese firm taking a fancy to the hoops? Don't think they would care if the ugly fans stopped buying their produce.
Don't know when the Carling thing finishes though...
Scotland are now 4th in the group, which is probably about right and probably how it will finish up.
France are very impressive, even last night when they weren't at full strength. Italy are Italy, and Ukraine are a useful outfit - at least on a par with the Scots if not better.
My wee pal Nasri had a more than decent game last night, although I was very impressed by Anelka who was often on his todd up front but always a real threat, and of course he scored a great goal to wrap it up.
Go to Hampden or romantic sejour in Rome? No brainer.
Say hello to Auld Benny for me :o)
yes the ban is just on childrens jerseys lhads.
anelka did look good, see he is touting himself for a move to man utd.
Wie regards moving players on, conversations over the weekend have lead me to believe that “fans” outside ra sellick think The Beats is a cracking player. I must be missing something and if this opinion is reflective then we should have no trouble moving him on….if he takes a wage cut.
22 players nae passangers sounds guid. Barney and Frosty I hope will feature more.
Ian- fear the Ecosse will struggle.
Beckahams baw for Terry’s goal was class I must admit…..
Baldy- if the rumours are to be believed Celtic have been trying to get oot of the Carling deal. They will make mair money going alone.
Six & Baldy – I fully agree it’s time to end all this old f*rm nonsense. We have nuthin in common wie them except being in the same city, which unusually for me I was doon the Great Western Road on Saturday, it’s very posh in the west end unlike the east end…..
All- Scotland will finish 3rd in the group if they beat the faroes and win the remaining hame games apart from Italy. As long as Italy keep winning I think we could sneak 2nd.
Kamamra and Komas the story today….9 million the pair. Dearer than the 2 for a pound white cotton socks oot side the thistle centre them….
Rangers make an offer of £400,000 for Steven Naismith.
Bless their cotton socks.
I would swap the Beats for him in a minute though.
£400,000? Can they afford white cotton socks two fer a pound..?
Think the ET has them upping their bid to a "decent" £600,000 and a set of trackies.....
That Evening Times fellow, Darrell King is an apologists for the blue meanies!
No doubt we`ll be hearing how unreasonable Killie/ Wigan are for holding back these players.
Think Wigan are being unreasonable, i mean Lee McCulloch is a big coo and them wanting over £1 million for him is laughable.
We should put a £700,000 bid in for Naismith just to price the h*ns oot the game....
But, yes both clubs are unreasonable, do they not know that when the darkside comes calling they are meant to fold like a poker novice on a Las Vegas table?
40th?
I would like to see THEM in a bidding war for some of their targets with the mini-huns or another SPL outfit, for example.
Methinks that we are operating at a different level.
The mini h*ns seem very quiet recently. Can we see them bidding for any Scottish player and really, can we see any Scottish player wanting to go there?
A quick talk wie Elvis and Zico will put The Beats off setting foot in Edinburgh.
I really do hope we are operating on a different level, but I think we will be dipping oor toes in the same pool as them for some. I mean, see McDonald, Hartley etc…..
Rumours today- Koumas to Villa, Viduka to the Toon, everyone wie two legs to West Ham….
I think that teams like Sunderland can raid the Scottish market as effectively as the Rankers. If Naismith has impressed enough that is. Let`s face it he wouldn`t get too many games at Celtic. :-/
With any luck mad Vlad will make a bid for Jiri.
He wants a move to the capital or Russia, so the diet huns fit the bill.
"Coach Strachan wants to keep me" Aye right, on yer bike JJ !!!
Billy Davis wie his meagre budget will raid SPL teams. He is lining up a bid for the Scottish Di Canio and has already bought Pearo and Teale.
He will be watching the Faroes game wie interest.
Naismith could be a target for him, mind you they do have that boy Barnes....
But as Ian said he widnae get a game that often for us..so i'm not worried.
Oh, JJ well done GS for keeping the price up by giving him the impression he wants him to stay
I'm half expecting the "important part of the squad" line to be trooped oot as soon as a bid comes in...
Aiden McGeady!
(No 46) :-)
Scott McDonald has appeared at Celtic Park, another new man in them hoops.
The Skipmeister!
Michael McGovern!
(No 47) :0)
Was he the goalie on the bench in the CF?
Will Scotland beat the Fairies?
I just learned that Skoosh is out with a knee injury:o(
So now everything hinges on Capt Trackies' calf muscle...
Anyway, put me out my misery, who is "the Scottish Di Canio"?
Morning couple of things caught ma eye this morning
£1.4 for Naismith now wie all promoted EPL clubs interested.
MON has approached The Hoops aboot naka. Never will happen, I fully expect this to be knocked back like Disco Deek from all Edinburg pubs now he has been fingered in his on-going trial. Bashing bouncers not big and not clever.
Welcome Skippy the short large arsed bush kangaroo.
Mark Viduka has agreed in principal to join the barcodes. Does his principals include not changing his name from Marko to Mark and going on sick leave for a few weeks after he signs, quoting stress, gangsters and lazyitis?
It’s a Faro-day for the Scots. Wee Shaun gets a start that will be strange for him.
The Scottish Di Canio is none other than oor Faddy or Fuddy as he is known around LOTW. He disnny have the ability to be as gallus as he thinks he is.
Yes, Mr McGovern was on the bench at the CF. And who is number 48?
Is it Teddy?
Captain trackie is injured...it's doon to oor Zico and Fletcher...
50
GIRUY.....
Fifty FIRST!
Any number that can be divided by 17 is all right by me!
I heard some of a discussion on Engerland last night on 5Live (your official Beckham station) International football brings out undesirable traits in some people.
Some other numbers.
Michael McGovern is No 47
Scott Cuthbert 49
Nicky Riley 51
Simon Ferry 53
Will we ever see them in the top team?
Having not seen a lot of the players mentioned Ian, I would say the keeper will always be a back up and will move on, Scott Cuthbert has some stiff competition in front of him at CB, Nicky Riley seems to be a McGlincey clone, small skilful and maybe could benefit, like Paul McGowan and Gardyne, of going oot on loan.
Mr Ferry, I reckon would have made the 1st team squad, along wie Charlie Grant, if fit. He might need a year oot on loan to regain the sharpness that he has lost.
I have always said Ferry was Stan P’s natural replacement…
Hopefully next season squad numbers will be 1 to 22 with no passengers.
Faddy=McFadden, is that right?
And Big Eck is still on the happy pills: "We can still qualify".
Like numbers that can be divided by 17, it's mathematically possible...
Any more of this type of drivel and we could make 60!
Six- wie the Killen and Skippy's squad numbers being 33 and 27 respectively then 1 to 22 seems as far away as Button Moon wie Mr Spoon...
yes, correctamondo it's Oor James McFadden whom the guy i gie a lift to every day is adament that MON fell oot wie the board over lack of funds to sign him...
I'm off home to find oot if qualification will still be possible in 3 hours time...
Only £400,000 for Beatts? Someone is having a Giraffe
Look lhads we are a CL team therefore if we are going to maximise the value of the team, we need to get top dollar for our players.
Here in England there are serious rumours of West Ham offering £20m for Andrew Johnson. Can i just repeat that? £20m!!!! plus £90K a week.
Some Sheff Wed defender is being valued at £3m! Look our players are playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world, in the CL and a few of our ex players have just played major roles in their tespective teams improvements this year.
Miller, Wallace and Varga at Sunderland
Pearo at Derby
Doyle at Cov (now valued at £2m)
Stan at the Villa (Maloney's free kick has excited a fair few of my work colleagues as well about his potential and his scoring tonight will only help)
Wigan are valuing Lee McCulloch as £4m and sorry but Beatts on potential alone is worth more than that to a Premiership club. The Beatt has scored in Europe, is now an established member of the Scotland squad having scored this season plus has scored in other games aginst Man U and Chelsea.
If we are to seriously want to start bringing players in and then selling them on to the Super-rich EPL for a profit so that we can perhaps compete a little, then we have to get top dollar for our goods. £400K would be like saying, fine we'll sell naka and Artur for a combined fee of £4m as they can't be that good cause they are only playing in Scotland.
I would have thought after selling Stan for £6-8m and Wallace for £850,000 our fans would start to reassess the value they put on our players. Looking at the £400k value most have on the Beatts, sadly not.
For the record, we should be looking for min £1.5m on both Jiri, Kenny and Tommy too. The Epl is awaSH WITH MONEY AND APART FROM THE TOP 6 clubs, most teams would be interested in our squad. Honest.
If we are to sell then at least get the right money - please
Hail hail by the way
Good stuff B`meister!
I think that you are right. I`m not sure that we`ll see any more strikers but the midfield and defence may be next.
A win for Scotland and the interview at the end referred to `Celtic fans` websites` as being the only doubters about Gordon Smith being the Exec of the SFA. GS said that Celtic supporters had apologised to him about that. :-)
Baldy- agree wie absolutely everything you say. But where is this £400,000 for Beats coming from?
The market in England is oot of control. The 20 million for AJ, is just laughable, even £5.5 for Barton is OTT. The English market feels like it’s shopping at the highest level while really it’s buying TKMaxx quality but paying Harrods prices.
All oor ex players have done well this season. Remains to be seen if Pearo, Varga and Wallace feature in the EPL. Maloney will be a success I’m sure of it as all in he is a decent player.
Back to the beats, will he be used as a pawn in a potential transfer deal wie the Baggies or shipped of to Derby or such. In either case his value should not be less than £750,000 to a Million when we sit doon at the table.
Ian- was at a BBQ last night, I know a school night, and as the burgers and lager flowed I heard a wee rumour that was heard via the meeja that we had put a £8 million bid in for Michael Owen. Came from his sisters, cousins, twice removed seemingly.
GS needs to buy another quality striker an international class striker. I’m sure we will see one coming through CP’s gates.
What was the interview you alluded to?
The interview was Richard Gordon talking to Gordon Smith. No mention of the technical points made by `tic fans though.
All pals together!
We Celtic supporters don`t expect to get a job unless we`re qualified to do it. Funny that.
60!
Zat a record?
I think at 400K we would be better to hold on to the bhoy Beats, he is a handy big guy to come on in the last 20minutes against flagging SPL defenses.
However, if an offer of a million came we would have to let him go.
I think we all wanted him to make it but his recurring injury problems have never allowed him to fulfill his potential.
Kevin, when are you coming up with a new thought provoking thread - not easy I know during the close seasom - but that's what blogmeisters were invented for ;o)
heard the michael owen rumour myself but i also said viduka was on his way back so that shows how much i know haha.
i think we should definetley punt beattie anything near 500k or over and we should snap the other teams hand off and wish the beats all the best.
Michael Owen - i'd love that, read a few interviews where he has explained that his cousins are all big Celtic fans.
Don't know idf you got the same MOTD (wed Night) when he said he was a Toffee growing up. I couldn't believe that, considering he played for Liverpool and he was so open about his allegiances as a kid. Can't ever see the sam,e sort of comments in Glasgow.
The £400,000K was a figure i read mentioned by a few people who still think we got a good price for Stan (CQN). When you look at what Villa paid for the unproven Ashley Young, i think perhaops we let him go for £4m too little.
I wou;d be sad to see Beatts go as I still believe that he has it in him to becom a great, although even I realise that at some time he has to be let free as he spend smore time with the physio than on the pitch.
But if we are to sell him to England, the fee must be over £800k with add ons up to £2m. If Arsenal can claim upwards of £4m for their u21's we have to look to get something similar(ish) for ours.
I know that the money is crazy down here, but if we are ever to compete we must make sure that we get a piece of teh action and I can't see how else in the next 2 years we are going to get this Sky money without a new TV deal?
hail hail
Finally, after years of torture, brogues wie shellsuits and drunken escapades during boring CIS cup games a phone call there ended it all. A nice lady from CP, when threatened wie anti social behaviour and not being accountable for ma actions, or cousin’s actions mair to the point we have been relocated.
A seat round the corner, close to the North Stand and lower doon. View of the Kingston Brig no more…maybe? Above the corner flag, nearly in the auld jungle. It’s nearly a homecoming.
It’s so close to a homecoming, it’s like the episode of the littlest hobo that was never shown, the one when he was close to home but got run over wie a pick up truck before he could get in his porch and eat a bone….
Can you guess it’s nearly hame time and I’m bored?
Writing drivel is better than thinking aboot spending £4million on Marlon Harewood and are we trying to sign Freddie Ljunberg, that ugly wee Kezman fellow or Cissie wie the dodgy hair? Oh and the live feed from the cricket disnny seem to be reaching ma office…IT meanies I tell ye….
Till tomorrow….
60, GIRUY.....
Eh, who broke the blog?
I posted comment number 60 last night at 4.30, as there was no other comments. Maybe too many comments:-)
Baldy- Ian Rush was also an Evertonian as well. Disnny seem to matter on Merseyside as much as up here. Mind you I have spoken to some bitter blue’s in ma time. Dates back to the European ban and their thoughts that Everton should have had at least one European cup.
I agree you look at Arsenal and they can punt their youngsters for fair cash. Think maybe it has something to do wie that all that have left them have went on and done well.
The more that leave us and do well the higher the price will become for or fringe players. Come to think aboot it oor fringe players in recent years huvnae really had much sell on value…Momo anyone?
Six- The site is going in for a re-fit and a new launch will be happening soon. No new posts until LOTW 07/08 is launched.
It was always ma aim to have the review as the last post of the season.
I see Celtic are going to have their very own Matildas.
What are we going to call them - The Ghirls? Na, too obvious.
If they are any good, they would have to be the MoCuishles.
If they are rank, the MoCamaras.
Anyway, look forward to the calendar :o)
Only slightly related, is your version 07/08 gonny have photies?
Six- i was thinking aboot going to watch the womens team...but MrsG put the kybosh on that.
I have just talked MrsG into get a fandangled new laptop and wireless connection. So photies are a possiblilty and maybe videos. Will need to spend time playing aboot wie blogger, which i cant do at the moment.
Finbar has left the club but Barney is signing a new deal.
Good news for the Tic -- skippy not selected for Asian Cup squad.
He can concentrate on his Celtic pre-season -- intelligent decision by Socceroos coach, who reckons at 23/24 he is more "one for the future".
It’s slow, news wise today. All the rumours are being rehashed, Appaih, Rossi, Bellamy etc. stopped reading the hoops sites , only reading the news sites, the big papers The Times etc from now on.
Rumours little rumours all a bit Fleetwood Mac.
Has anyone else noticed that every player we are linked wie Newcastle, Aston Villa and West Ham are linked wie as well….?
Och, it’s that boring in the fitba world I’m thinking aboot going to Jamie Langfield’s wedding , I mean it will be great if he gets pished!!!!
Guid news aboot Skippy, the guy could be oor main foil for JVOH if all oor transfer targets go elsewhere…
Have the hoops not got a women’s site set up yet….?
Celtic woman strips...
...looks really good...
...unspoiled...
...by sponser's name.
Jamie Langfield’s wedding? Divorce first, maybe. Not surprised the huns offered him a contract.
Ma pal whose cousin works in the Celtic shop, in Stirling, has just called.
Pub 5pm was his cry. Too right.
Drunken conversations regarding who would be better Bellamy or Owen to partner JVOH will be the norm by 7pm this evening...
My quest to find oot if his cousin can get me a top withoot a sponsors starts after the 5th pint..
Wonder if Jamie Langfield told Calderwood he looked like a tangoman wie ants in his pants or that him demanding £100,000 for him was shocking.
71st? (a prime number)
The Spanish league race resumes and may even be settled this weekend.
I`m for Sevilla but we may have to settle para(for) la Coppa del Rey! :-)
Does wearing unsponsered top make you look like a big Jessie?
If so, JJ should be wearing one on a permanent basis :o)
However, if I'm going to buy the new top, it's got to be without the Carling - heard a rumour about availability in July but maybe your mate's cousin knows for sure.
Will keep an eye on Sevilla, here's hoping they can break the Real/Barca monopoly.
Well i'll gladly look like a Big Jessie.
Forgot aboot Espana still having the wears to be decided. Suppose Seville would be a victory for the wee man, but los glacticos are in poll position at the moment.
Six- yer man Nessi(sp) has certainly came to the fore over the last few internationals.
Can we swap him for Beats and Miller?
Samir Nasri - he's starting to make a name for himself, unfortunately it looks as though it's going to his head...
The nearest we've got to him is Aiden. Maybe with a bit more confidence and a free role just behind the front two, he could start to live up to the hype.
But sometimes I wonder if we can afford to have Aiden & Naka playing together...
With 2 games to go, Sevilla could just sneak it - we've seen worse
:o(
But I digress.
Back to the facinating world of woman's tops...
...only joking!
Back to the fascinating world of CFC giving HUGE vickies to RFC.
'Naismith, aye, we might be interested...'
Ha ha ha -- love it.
PS
Personally, I think we have enough great WEE players, what we need is great "think bobo-stature here" players.
Pre season friendly 29th July, Celtic v A C Parma. I wonder if my mate will have returned my Teamcard by then? That`ll be 4 weeks tomorrow since I`ve seen it! :-(
Six- would love to see Aiden or Naka in a free role, but I agree wie the fact we play two of them at times. If we add a bit of creativity to the middle of the middle then maybe only one will get the nod week in week out.
Naismith, do we need him or is this pretence just a wind up tool. Being asked to be kept informed for me makes me think that we are looking to punt 1st before deciding. Again is he any better than oor own small skilful baw players?
If we signed him, Broon apart, I would be slightly non plussed by oor business so far.
Sore today, charity game yesterday, left wing berth for me, wide open spaces, lonely on the wing…oh, and one r*ngers team ended up wie a trophy after a sneaky victory 4-3 on pens….
Mrs Baldy already asking for new Celtic top (Size 10)
Got into trouble when I opened Ofeeshall site and there was a pic of the lovely new signings. Had to prove I wasn't on any dodgy sites.
Have tickets sorted now for Peterbrough and QPR. Anyone else planning a trip down here to Engerlund?
Baldy
Baldy- oor pre-season jaunts always fall at the sametime as MrsG birthday and oor wedding ann.
Huvnae been able to talk her into a wee weekend in Peterborough or then London.
Always wanted to go to the Fulham games but something always came up.
I'm still awaitng confirmation of a sponsorless top....
im booked up to head down to newcastle in july can't wait.
reg naismith, he is good but i know wot u mean is he any better than riordan etc?
i agree also that in certain games we get over-ran sometimes when playing naka and aiden.
seemingly birmingham have offered 3.5m for kamara from west brom.
i would take him in a second if we can't afford bellamy.
Haven't seen enough of Kamama to say whether he is worth £3.5 or not.
All i can go on is when WBA were in the play offs all the pundits reckoned that if they got up he would still be plying his trade in the Championship the following season.
Now i know pundits know nuthin...but he isn't exactly box office blue chip die hard 4 sort of signing is he?
he is a cracking player who would be superb up here.
Cracking he maybe but WBA are asking £6 million now according to the BBC rumour mill.
Scary figures now being banded aboot for medicore or average players.
The sky money is kicking in big time.
Is PL trying to compete wie EPL teams or is he lurking in the background hoping the Newcastle or West Ham money men don't see him?
So much for my interests in summer sport. That`s Tim Henman out of the Artois tournament. What were you guys talking about? I saw the Herald sport section, that was good of them to promote Rangers v Ajax and Chelsea. Should help the ticket sales! :-)
ian - i am struggling already without any decent games to watch.
kev - shows wot the pundits know if wba want £6m for a guy the pundits said wouldn't have went to the premiership with them if they had went up and premiership teams and Celtic are being linked with him.
i agree tho for that type of money we could do better.
i hope lennon is succesful at forest.
Ian- we were talking aboot Kamara from West Brom, who is a bit like Camara but wie a K.
Seven- I notice Fulham, i think, bid £7 million for both Kamara and Komas. Bid rejected.
Listened to Radio Snide this morning and what a laugh it was. Shug Keevins done basically a R*ngers good news, well kind of guid news, and hope broadcast.
He should have just came on and went
"we are the peeeeepul and we shall overcome....beleive..."
Wonder how their season ticket sales are coming on?
In fact oors must be slow as well as now the offfesssshil site is promoting an open day for you to get moved...due to people not renewing.
Where's the waiting list?
For me that shows the product is waning...
Komas and Kamara are now available for £10million according to the BBC rumour Mill.
Does that mean if we offer £9 and The Beats we get him as the same rumour mill has WBA wanting The Beats?
Even then is the deal worth £9 million, even then do we have £9 million to spend?
Barney, not the dinosaur, but the Icelandic midfielder has signed a 3 year deal wie the bhoys.
From what i have seen i hope he gets the chance to impress next season.
agree £9m is a lot of money especially from 2 guys from the championship.
our manager/scouts etc would have to be 100% sure.
as you say though do we have £9m in the 1st place and are we even interested?
good news about barney, looks to be a good prospect.
The world has officially gone mad. £17 million for Darren Bent. A striker who husnae scored 20 EPL goals ever. A couple of England caps, no European experience, well will he need it at the Irons?, and he is worth £75,000 a week.
Now if I was a Hammer then I would be seriously worried aboot Curbs splashing that amount of cash. I mean he has spent £121 million pounds since their Icelandic saviour took over. where did it get them? saved from relegation by the skin of their teeth.
paying loads of cash for the mediocre rewarding the average. rewarding failure.
This is the world we are trying to compete in. A world that teams like WBA think they can get £10 million for two guys who failed to shoot them back to the EPL.
In the words of the Stone Roses “Stop the world i want to get off”
90?
The CBPL - is that what it's called now? - sees us hosting a Naismith-less Killie in the first game.
The Uglies (with or without lifetime supporter Fowler) won't fancy their wee trip up to Inverness.
The we've got two away games while they've got two at home.
You would think it was hard to work out successive home and away games for everybody.
Anyway, bring it on !
Six you have me...CBPL?
The fixtures have me reaching for ma paranioa pills..how easy could they make it for them?
4 winnable games oot of four for them. While we go to grounds we struggle big time.
It shouldnae matter, but it does...
meant to say the sponsorless jersey, while not planned, the amount of interest in it has got the beaks twitching.
could be a problem wie Carling but a decision on whether they will be available or not should be made in July.
ma insider says probably not....
CBPL = Clydesdale Bank Premier League(is that what it was before, don't remember?).
Anyway, we seem to have a hard opening 5 games of so compared with you know who.
The heated balls were again picked out by innocent hands...
As long as it doesn't have any influence on CL quelifiers.
was it not just SPL? or the HBOS SPL?
Does that mean we get to keep the trophy? As surely the Clydesdale will have a new cup?
Heated Baws? Nae, i think the computer was programmed by a Billy and it wisnny Billy Gates...
The qualifying round we are in the 1st game is between Fawkirk away and the Sheep.
Could have a massive influence....
I`m still on my summer sabatical but I have to help get the thread to 3 figures. SPL? You`re having a laugh! :-)
Oh aye, I had a wee look at the Sun and iain king was going on about the rankers. Osasuna should shape up and take what`s on offer and young Naismith is only thinking of one club. How`s that for a summary? Plus ca change...
Come on the Bhoys!
Prior to the Derby, was it a couple of weeks ago, I heard an interview with Cockney Rebel owner Steve Harley who mentioned a horse that was running that day called `Declaration of War`. Not being a punter I didn`t back it but it won at 9/2. ( in a race prior to the Derby)
Anyway if you look out for this horse it could be worthwhile. This information is only useful to horse backers, do you know any?
Ian, the derby was the day of the semi final against St Johnstone.After the game i was back in the boozer and the derby was aboot to start.
The name Cockney Rebel jump right oot like a sair thumb. A wee 10 spot on it later and ma night oot was paid for!!!!!!
I don't back horses, usually, but a backed authorized last week. Today the gadge on talksport said "Bentley Biscuit" is one to watch at ascot next week....
enough of this horses rubbish, fitbaw site for fitbaw people, i'm so glad the hoops are looking to serie a to spend their luca.
better value for money.
Kevin you are havering, the Derby was twa weeks ago. :-) (You are probably thinking of the Grand National)
Still as you said, enough!
Do you think that Wattie has come in with a late bid for Bent to gazump West Ham?
Value for money in Italy? Could be a new thing.
Ian- i did back Cockney Rebel and spent the winnings after a game...i did..i think, i canny remember..but maybe ma havering shows ma lack of knowledge concerning horse racing....
Wattie for Bent? Aye, he has offerred Sebo, Svennson, Papic and Novo, a set of trackies and a pre season friendly plus insalments of £200,000 now and £200,000 next season.
Think they have a chance?
An italian international, right un cap but i counts, and an ex 10 million player, both regulars last season and not bench warmers for under £5 million.
I think that is value...
Is this an open goal? Am I related to Peter Van Vossen? I`m hoping that the quality of player coming in is suddenly raised, just like when Jiri and the mad Thomas were signed. :-)
was expectin the blog to explode....100 comments!!nae prize though i'm a skinflint and this blog is not a slave to the advertisers wage...put if anyone is willing to give me freebies:-)
well done Ian...no yer not van vossen..yer Alan Partridge...back of the net!!!!
i too was impressed when we signed Jiri and The Grav...hopefully guys of similiar ilk but better application are being lined up...etims rumour mill is good today
Frei, Appaih, Makaay, scholes!!!, fletcher???..still lack of full backs being linked...
Bhoys
I'm off to Mallorca for a wee week R & R. Just found oot i will watch the La Liga finish in the place that could have a big say in where the title ends up.
How exciting, but i'm sure Mallorca will be full of Barca and Madird fans somehow....
Anyway adios..i'm sure i will be refreshed and ready to rant when i return....
That`s great! Have a fine time Kevin. :-)
YNWA KTF and ALOTBSOL!
Mallorca for a week?
Alright for some, eh.
ALOTBSOL = Muchos del sol?
As for the Spanish fitba', I reckon Barcelona will sneak it.
Mallorca - hope you enjoy it, am off to Miami next week for the belated Honeymoon with the children in tow.
Was in Glasgow Thursday Night for work reasons, amused that the State of Alert at the Scottish Executive was so prominently displayed.
Was my first time at Glasgow Airport and went straight into the Celtic Shop. Made all the Top Directors at where i work have to wait for me, while I dived in to get Dad's father's day present. to be fair though, they were really good about it.
Bent apparently turned down £90K a week now and waiting to go to the Pool, explaining why he refused the Hammers. Is he any better than the Beatts - I doubt it, he's just as injury prone IMO and yet to score at the highest level - International football.
I think Real will win it - not that I have any preferences over there, but the paranoia in me reckons that they will get a penalty tonight.
All the best everyone
baldy
The Spanish title finale is similar to the situation in the Netherlands. The 3rd favourites won that so forca Sevilla!
Have a great holiday Baldymeister, I always enjoy your posts! :-)
Massimo Donati has been signed from AC Milan!
A big `SI`!
excellant looks to be a top signing.
Have i missed much?
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