Despite smashing records and setting new ones last year, Celtic could be in for a tough test in the Scottish Premiership in 2018/19, as a renewed Rangers and their fresh manager Steven Gerrard look set to go toe-to-toe with the Bhoys. Even the oddsmakers aren’t sure what to make of Celtic’s chances this year, whilst they are clear favorites on sites such as Betolimp, they are certainly longer than they have been in previous years. I plan to keep my eye on Betolimp South Africa to see what kind of chances they give the Hoops in the Champions League once the preliminary stages are over. Ahead of the new season then, let’s take a look at what is going on in the green and white side of Glasgow.
Derby Switch
The first Old Firm match of the season will now take place on Sunday, September 12 and it will kick off at 12 noon. This fixture doesn’t need to have its flames fanned but the fact that Steven Gerrard will be taking on his old boss Brendan Rodgers, does give the game even more spice.
Rodgers Headache
Brendan Rodgers has spoken glowingly about the impressive permeances of Celtic boys Dedryck Boyata and Michael Lustig, after each of their respective countries qualified for the World Cup last 8. Unfortunately for Rodgers however it does mean that the two players will not be available for selection in their upcoming Champions League qualifier against Alashkert. Rodgers spoke about the players to The Daily Record.
“It’s fantastic for them. I’ve obviously been in contact with them throughout the tournament through text and what have you. I’m delighted for Dedryck. He’s had a great run in the team there before coming out for Vincent Kompany but he’s still very much a part of their squad. It’s brilliant, the quarter-finals on Friday for him.”
Tierney Out?
News has broken this morning that Everton are readying a bid for Celtic star Kieran Tierney, who had a stellar season with Celtic last year. Early reports suggest that Celtic would be reluctant to let their star player go, but they could be convinced if there was a player coming the other way.
Another Level for Moussa?
Moussa Dembele was simply outstanding last year as Celtic romped to yet another SPL title, and manager Brendan Rodgers is tipping the Frenchman to take his football to another level this year. Rodgers has spoken glowingly about the application, work ethic and the attitude of the young attacker, and says that physically he is in the shape of his life, and ready to show the world just how good he really is. There was expected to be a lot of transfer talk about Dembele, with suitors lining up around Europe, in spite of this however, it has been smooth sailing so far, allowing Demebele to focus on putting the work in on the training ground.
