Ryan Mcdonald

Camilo Duran scored twice in Celtic's 3–0 win over LASK at Parkhead, prompting manager Martin O'Neill to describe his performance as world class. The Colombian forward's volley and curling finish put Celtic in a commanding position before the second leg in Austria and continued his strong record in elite European competition. Although naturally a striker, Duran has adapted positively to playing on the right wing to accommodate Kasper Hogh, while also embracing the team's defensive demands and settling into life in Glasgow with his family.

Celtic defeated LASK 3–0 at Celtic Park in the first leg of their Champions League playoff, taking a commanding advantage into the return match in Linz. Benjamin Nygren opened the scoring with a superb strike before Camilo Duran scored twice, including a second-half goal created through a slick passing move. LASK threatened early and had a goal disallowed for offside, but Celtic improved after the opening stages and defended effectively to secure a potentially decisive lead.

Cameron Carter-Vickers says he is happy at Celtic and has no intention of following the club’s recent departures. After returning from a nine-month Achilles injury lay-off, the defender is motivated to help Celtic qualify for the Champions League and avoid a repeat of their previous Kairat Almaty disappointment. He believes the squad is stronger than at the same stage last season, highlighting the quick impact of new forwards Kasper Hogh and Camilo Duran. Carter-Vickers has started Celtic’s first three matches since his return but says he is still rebuilding full fitness and sharpness ahead of the European tie against LASK.

LASK manager Dietmar Kuhbauer says Celtic face greater pressure in the Champions League playoff first leg, despite LASK being confident it can cause an upset. The Austrian champions, seeking their first appearance in the competition, aim to attack rather than sit back and believe qualification would bring major financial and sporting benefits. Kuhbauer praised Martin O'Neill while emphasizing the need for LASK to perform at its highest level, and goalkeeper Lucas Jungwirth said former St Mirren player Miguel Freckleton had provided advice about Celtic's atmosphere.

Celtic avenged last season’s 2-0 defeat at Tannadice by beating Dundee United 4-0 in the Premier Sports Cup, extending their winning run to 12 matches. New attacking signings Kasper Hogh, Camilo Duran and Haissem Hassan helped transform the mood around the club, while Benjamin Nygren continued his excellent form with a goal and assist. Despite the emphatic result, Martin O’Neill needs midfield reinforcements before Celtic’s Champions League play-off against LASK, particularly after Arne Engels’ £22 million sale, Paulo Bernardo’s departure and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s suspension. Michael Nicholson is under pressure to complete further deals before the transfer deadline.

Celtic winger Sebastian Tounekti credits coach Shaun Maloney and the wider coaching staff with helping him become more confident and effective in the final third. After an underwhelming first season, the Tunisian marked his first start of the new campaign with a goal and an assist in Celtic's 4-0 win over Dundee United. Tounekti accepts that competition for places has intensified following Celtic's major attacking investment, but says he is ready to earn opportunities through hard work and performances. His improvement could lead to a start against LASK in the Champions League play-off first leg after representing Tunisia at the World Cup.

Celtic defeated Dundee United 4-0 at Tannadice to reach the Premier Sports Cup quarter-finals and build momentum before their Champions League play-off. Benjamin Nygren was named the standout performer with a nine after contributing a goal and two assists, while Camilo Duran and Sebastian Tounekti impressed with goals and assists. Auston Trusty opened the scoring, and Celtic secured another clean sheet despite Dundee United hitting the woodwork five times. Several squad players benefited from rotation, including Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Colby Donovan and Liam Scales, while Haissem Hassan struggled after limited preseason involvement.

German midfielder Mika Baur has completed a £6.8 million move from Paderborn to Celtic after a three-week transfer negotiation. The 22-year-old described the attention generated by Fabrizio Romano's leaked announcement, praised Celtic's coaches and squad for helping him settle in Glasgow, and said former Celtic winger Nicolas Kuhn encouraged him to join. Baur is eager to experience Champions League football, hopes to emulate Kuhn's success against German clubs, and views Celtic as a potential platform for a future Germany senior-team call-up. He is relocating with his girlfriend Emma and their dog Karl.

Celtic remain hopeful of signing Real Oviedo winger Haissem Hassan for an initial £6 million before Champions League registration deadlines, despite interest from other clubs. A move for Fares Ghedjemis appears unlikely after Frosinone valued him at £18 million, while Celtic are also negotiating over Mika Baur with Paderborn. Martin O’Neill wants a left-back, with Greg Taylor a possible target, but Celtic have dropped their interest in James Penrice. Reports of a £4 million bid for Las Palmas goalkeeper Dinko Horkas were denied.

Celtic defeated Kilmarnock 5-1 at Rugby Park to move top of the league, with new £11 million signing Kasper Hogh scoring a first-half hat-trick. Arne Engels, Benjamin Nygren, Kieran Tierney and Camilo Duran also impressed, while Luke McCowan added a late goal. The performance gives manager Martin O'Neill several defensive and attacking selection decisions ahead of the next match, particularly concerning Auston Trusty, Liam Scales, Alistair Johnston and the club's squad depth.

Kilmarnock host Celtic at Rugby Park on Sunday, August 9, with kick-off scheduled for 1:30 p.m. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Main Event, with streaming available through Sky Go, NOW TV, and for eligible overseas subscribers through Kilmarnock TV and CelticPlayer. Kilmarnock are unveiling a new £1.5 million hybrid grass pitch after replacing their synthetic surface and will seek a response to their 4–3 defeat by St Johnstone, while Celtic aim to extend the momentum from their 1–0 win over Dundee. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill's availability remains uncertain after a midweek health scare.

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is recovering in hospital after undergoing a minor procedure and may miss the club's Scottish Premiership match at Kilmarnock. Chris Sutton says O'Neill's health must take priority over football, although the 74-year-old is expected to be discharged within 48 hours. If he remains unavailable, assistants Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham are expected to take charge. O'Neill recently returned as Celtic's permanent manager after guiding the club to a domestic double during an interim spell, and Celtic began their title defence with a 1–0 win over Dundee.

Celtic opened their Scottish Premiership title defence with a narrow 1–0 win over Dundee, secured by Benjamin Nygren's second-half header. Record signing Kasper Hogh missed several chances on his debut, while Camilo Duran appeared less effective after being moved to the wing. The result did little to ease supporter frustration, with “sack the board” chants returning amid concerns that Celtic have made only two signings after releasing 14 players, just before a crucial Champions League play-off against LASK. Dundee impressed despite a depleted squad, giving manager Steven Pressley hope of avoiding relegation and pushing for a top-six finish.

Celtic will host Dundee at Celtic Park on Monday, August 3, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. The match will mark the unveiling of Celtic’s league flag after their narrow title win over Hearts and the start of their bid for a 57th top-flight championship. Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Main Event will broadcast the game, while Sky Go, NOW TV, CelticPlayer and DEETV provide streaming options for eligible viewers.

Celtic, seeded in the Champions Path, will learn their Champions League play-off opponent on August 3, with first legs scheduled for August 18 or 19 and returns on August 25 or 26. Potential opponents include Viking Stavanger, LASK Linz, NK Celje, Aarat-Armenia, Kairat Almaty, Levski Sofia, Aarhus and Sabah. Celtic must submit a 25-man squad by August 13, with limited late additions permitted. Defeat would send the club into the Europa League league phase, while qualification could generate about £40 million and guarantee eight league-phase fixtures.

Celtic are continuing a major summer rebuild after releasing or losing 13 players, with manager Martin O’Neill expected to make further additions before the transfer deadline. Pre-season has left five fringe players—Adam Montgomery, Paulo Bernardo, Reo Hatate, Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Johnny Kenny—uncertain about their futures. Bernardo, Hatate and Balikwisha appear most likely to leave, while Montgomery could depart if another left-back arrives and Kenny may return to Bolton after recovering from injury. New forwards Kasper Høgh and Camilo Duran, along with Callum Osmand, have further reduced Kenny’s prospects.

Kasper Hogh has completed a club-record move from FK Bodø/Glimt to Celtic for more than £11 million, signing a four-year contract with an option for an additional year. The 25-year-old Danish striker, who scored 54 goals and provided 22 assists in two seasons in Norway, says he is eager to play in front of Celtic's supporters and contribute as a team-focused box striker. After scoring against several elite European clubs and helping Bodø/Glimt reach the Champions League last 16, Hogh is expected to support Celtic's attempt to qualify for the competition and secure its associated financial rewards.

Tore-Andre Flo’s £12 million move to Rangers in 2000 made him Scottish football’s record signing, but he was judged harshly while Celtic striker Henrik Larsson was scoring at an extraordinary rate. Flo scored 38 goals in 72 appearances yet was labelled a flop because of the comparison. Former Celtic player Vidar Riseth believes Kasper Hogh, Celtic’s new £11 million target or signing, can avoid a similar fate because he will not face a Rangers striker producing 50 goals a season.

Celtic drew 2-2 with AC Milan in an entertaining pre-season friendly at Celtic Park. Camilo Duran opened the scoring after a Strahinja Pavlovic error and then assisted James Forrest for Celtic's second. Milan responded after half-time, with Francesco Camarda converting a penalty and heading Samuel Chukwueze's cross to equalize. Both sides had late chances, but neither found a winner. The match gave Martin O'Neill's Celtic valuable preparation before the start of their Premiership title defence, while the club also moved closer to signing Bodo/Glimt striker Kasper Høgh for a reported club-record fee exceeding £11 million.

Jens Hjerto-Dahl suggested that Tromsø’s Europa League match against Hradec Králové could have been his final appearance for the club, amid reported interest from Rangers and Cardiff City. Rangers have reportedly had a £5.3 million bid rejected, while Cardiff are prepared to meet Tromsø’s £8 million asking price. Rangers also missed out on defender Sankhoun Diawara after AC Milan agreed a £1.7 million deal with Troyes. Meanwhile, outcast Danilo has arrived in Brazil to complete a season-long loan move to Botafogo.

Celtic will host AC Milan at Celtic Park on Saturday, July 25, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm. The pre-season friendly will not be shown on television, but subscribers worldwide can watch it on CelticPlayer or purchase a one-off £8.99 Match Pass. The match follows fan frustration over Celtic’s limited transfer activity and another expected low attendance, with the top tier of the stadium closed.

Bobby Madden reflects on major refereeing flashpoints from his career, including controversial decisions in high‑profile Celtic and Rangers matches. He defends his calls involving Leigh Griffiths, Alfredo Morelos and Ryan Kent, attributing some missed incidents to the intensity of Old Firm derbies. Madden also details how a disputed decision during a Europa League game led to a negative mark from an observer, halting his progression toward UEFA’s elite refereeing category, a setback he considers the biggest regret of his career.

Alan Brazil plans to return to talkSPORT in early August following months of recovery after a life‑saving liver transplant. He reports continued improvement despite ongoing treatments and medication side effects, expressing optimism about resuming broadcasting for part of the week. He shared the update while speaking with colleagues and thanked supporters for their patience as he works toward a full return.

Graeme Souness has emerged as a potential candidate to replace Steve Clarke as Scotland manager, with Frank McAvennie arguing that his stature and leadership could make him an ideal choice despite his long absence from management. Clarke stepped down after Scotland’s World Cup exit, prompting the Scottish Football Association to consider several high-profile contenders, including Roberto Martinez, Rafa Benitez and Darren Fletcher.

Kasper Schmeichel reflects on the moment he realised his career was ending after a damaging performance against Stuttgart revealed the severity of an underlying shoulder injury that ultimately forced him to retire. Despite fan criticism in his final months at Celtic, he recalls his two years in Glasgow with affection, praising the club’s passion and intensity. Schmeichel expresses regret at not being able to say farewell on the pitch but values finishing the season with a league and cup Double. Uncertain about his future after working as a World Cup pundit, he plans to explore roles in football, including coaching, directing, or potentially owning a club.

Celtic have contacted AEK Athens about left‑back James Penrice as they seek cover for Kieran Tierney following Marcelo Saracchi’s decision not to return. Penrice, who joined AEK from Hearts last summer, had previously been tracked by Rangers, but no renewed bid has been made. The move comes as former Celtic striker Kyogo secures a long‑term deal with LA Galaxy after unsuccessful spells at Rennes and Birmingham.

Martin O’Neill details his heated on‑air exchange with broadcaster Jim White following Celtic’s dramatic title win over Hearts, saying he has not spoken to White since but harbours no ill will. He defends Celtic fans after the post‑match pitch invasion, disputing claims that Hearts players were assaulted and arguing the incident was exaggerated. O’Neill maintains the celebrations did not tarnish the achievement and suggests the reaction would have differed had Hearts won. He also praises Derek McInnes for his work at Hearts and expects him to strengthen Rangers in the coming season.

John Barnes reflects on his brief and turbulent spell managing Celtic, arguing his win rate was superior to Steven Gerrard’s at Rangers but that internal politics, media hostility and a series of injuries and player issues undermined his position. He describes early success overshadowed by unrest within the club, major injuries to key players like Henrik Larsson and Paul Lambert, and Mark Viduka’s desire to leave. Barnes says the environment made his job untenable and believes he was harshly dismissed despite early promise.

Ipswich Town have opened transfer talks with Celtic for Daizen Maeda, aiming to quickly secure a deal as the forward seeks a move to the Premier League. Maeda, entering the final year of his contract, has expressed a strong desire to play in England after a previously failed move to Wolfsburg. New Ipswich manager Gary O'Neil has made him a priority target, while Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has stated he will not block an acceptable offer. Maeda reiterated his ambition to challenge himself at a higher level and is awaiting negotiations between the clubs.

Liam Scales praises Cameron Carter-Vickers as the best centre-back in Scotland and highlights how much Celtic missed him during his seven‑month injury absence. With Carter‑Vickers now fit for pre‑season, Scales expects the defence to strengthen significantly. Scales reflects on stepping into a leadership role last season, earning the trust of manager Martin O’Neill, and captaining the team in Callum McGregor’s absence. He speaks positively about O’Neill’s return and his straightforward defensive philosophy. Celtic continue preparations for their final pre‑season matches before beginning their pursuit of a sixth consecutive league title.

Liam Scales says Celtic must significantly improve to secure a sixth straight Premiership title after an inconsistent season marked by managerial changes. With rivals Hearts and Rangers strengthening, he stresses the need for stability and a better points return. Scales highlights tactical development under Martin O'Neill, the value of a full pre-season, and the impact of new signings, including striker Camilo Duran. The squad aims to refine its playing principles and adapt tactically to increased competition across the league.

Martin O'Neill plans to sign another goalkeeper despite Viljami Sinisalo starting the season as Celtic’s likely No 1, stressing the need for competition following Kasper Schmeichel’s retirement. He indicated Maik Nawrocki may leave due to limited opportunities amid interest from German clubs, while Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Paulo Bernardo also face uncertain futures after failing to secure regular roles. Pre‑season offers them a chance to impress, but O'Neill acknowledged that departures remain possible.

Martin O'Neill says he accepted his Celtic contract without asking for transfer guarantees from Dermot Desmond and remains confident signings will arrive despite a slow start to the window. He praised the recruitment team’s ongoing work and indicated the search for a new head of recruitment is not a priority, with Mark Cooper effectively fulfilling the role. O'Neill noted that while he generally avoids signing players based solely on World Cup performances, he remains open to exceptions, citing past success with Joos Valgaeren.

Sporting Lisbon defeated Celtic 4–1 in a pre-season friendly in the Algarve, exposing defensive weaknesses in Martin O'Neill’s side. Celtic struggled throughout, with multiple errors contributing to Sporting’s goals, although new signing Camilo Duran provided a bright moment by scoring on his debut. Several young players featured due to the absence of World Cup participants, but Celtic’s rustiness and fatigue from intense training sessions were evident as Sporting controlled the second half.

Martin O'Neill confirms Jota will return to Lennoxtown after more than a year of ACL rehabilitation but remains months away from a first‑team comeback, likely around Halloween. O'Neill says he must exclude the winger from short‑term plans until he nears full fitness. Celtic have issued a contract offer to free agent Kelechi Iheanacho, while O'Neill denies awareness of renewed Nottingham Forest interest in Arne Engels. Camilo Duran may miss the Sporting Lisbon friendly due to illness.

Martin O'Neill signals he may lose several key Celtic players this summer, with Daizen Maeda seeking a Premier League move and Arne Engels expected to attract further bids after Nottingham Forest’s previous £25 million offer. Reo Hatate is exploring options away from the club, while Benjamin Nygren is also drawing interest after a strong debut season. O’Neill expresses a desire to keep the players but acknowledges the uncertainty as the transfer window progresses.

Callum McGregor's future at Celtic is uncertain as his change of agent and interest from Saudi Arabia have prompted transfer speculation. Martin O'Neill plans talks with the 33‑year‑old captain but admits a major offer could force the club’s hand despite McGregor's importance to the team. Celtic have strengthened their coaching setup by recruiting set‑piece specialist Ross Grant from Hearts as O’Neill works on tactical adjustments during a training camp in Portugal, aiming to make the team more direct while maintaining continuity.

A final‑day Scottish Premiership showdown left the Forrest family divided as brothers James and Alan appeared as substitutes for Celtic and Hearts. Celtic secured the title with a late turnaround, giving James another major honour while Alan was left disappointed after Hearts’ strong season fell short. James reflected on the emotional impact on his family, the intensity of the title race and the quality of Hearts’ challenge. He also noted the significant changes underway at Hearts following the departures of key figures as Celtic prepares for renewed competition next season.

James Forrest revealed that teammate Kieran Tierney was responsible for playing Tina Turner’s The Best during Celtic’s dressing‑room celebrations after securing the league and cup double, a playful jab at rivals Rangers who traditionally use the anthem at Ibrox. Forrest described the act as good‑natured banter, noting that fans had embraced the song in recent seasons as well.

James Forrest urges Celtic to retain Callum McGregor amid renewed uncertainty over the captain’s future following his switch to a new agency and links to a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia. Forrest emphasises McGregor’s leadership, influence and hunger for further success, arguing his departure would be a major loss. McGregor’s decision may depend on Celtic strengthening the squad, with new signing Camilo Duran already impressing in pre-season. Forrest believes increased competition will elevate the team and welcomes further additions during the transfer window.

Celtic completed the £6 million signing of striker Camilo Duran, who expressed excitement about joining the club and aiming for Champions League success. Manager Martin O'Neill confirmed that discussions have advanced with Kelechi Iheanacho and Marcelo Saracchi over potential returns, while also acknowledging numerous transfer links including Mory Gbane. O'Neill indicated further squad additions are planned but noted that negotiations remain ongoing.

Martin O'Neill explains he needed weeks to decide whether to remain Celtic manager after leading the club to a dramatic league and cup Double, admitting he lacked the energy to commit immediately after the season. The board allowed him time to deliberate as they considered potential younger replacements, and O'Neill eventually agreed to continue on a one-year deal with an option for another season. He consulted family and close friends before committing and is now preparing his squad intensively for the fast-approaching title defence and Champions League play-off. Recruitment and managing the demanding schedule are identified as key challenges ahead.

Cameron Carter-Vickers reflects on his nine-month recovery from an Achilles injury, returning in a pre-season match as Celtic prepare to defend their title. He highlights last season’s dramatic comeback under Martin O'Neill, praises key figures such as Callum McGregor, and expresses determination to contribute fully after missing the USA’s World Cup campaign. He stresses the need for strengthening the squad, with new signings and ongoing transfer negotiations seen as essential for Celtic’s Champions League ambitions.

Martin O’Neill said his own delay in deciding to remain as Celtic manager caused the hold‑up in finalising deals for coaches Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham. He also defended renewing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s contract, expressed understanding over Reo Hatate’s desire for a new challenge, and praised Liam Scales’ development while noting his upcoming suspension. Celtic’s preseason opened with a draw against Shelbourne, a test O’Neill considered valuable as the squad prepares for training in Portugal.

Martin O’Neill is pursuing a return deal for free agent Kelechi Iheanacho as Celtic look to reinforce their squad, with negotiations ongoing to bring the striker back for pre‑season. Camilo Duran is close to completing a £6 million move from Qarabag, but O’Neill aims to add at least one more goalscorer. Celtic are also attempting to re‑sign Marcelo Saracchi after a loan bid was rejected, with left‑back depth a concern. Johnny Kenny continues his recovery from injury, while the club seeks another goalkeeper to compete with Viljami Sinisalo following Kasper Schmeichel’s retirement.

Camilo Duran is close to completing a £6 million transfer to Celtic, with Martin O’Neill confirming the striker will undergo a medical before joining the squad for pre-season training in Portugal. O’Neill expects additional signings as recruitment efforts continue. Yang Hyeon-jun will miss the early-season derby against Rangers due to his call-up for the Asian Games, fulfilling military service obligations. Celtic opened their pre-season with a 1-1 draw against Shelbourne, featuring the return of several players from injury and loan spells, and offering opportunities for academy prospects.

Dermot Desmond observed Celtic’s 1-1 preseason draw with Shelbourne as the club continues to push for much-needed squad reinforcements, highlighted by the imminent signing of striker Camilo Duran. With several key players absent and many academy prospects filling the squad, the match underscored the urgency for transfer activity ahead of upcoming Champions League qualifiers. Cameron Carter-Vickers made a welcome return from injury, while fringe players such as Maik Nawrocki and Michel-Ange Balikwisha attempted to re-establish themselves. Youth talents including Joseph Haney and Thomas Hatton impressed during significant minutes, but the overall display reinforced the need for new arrivals as Celtic head to Portugal for further preparations.

Scott McDonald recounts how his successful period at Celtic ended abruptly under Tony Mowbray, whose lack of trust and squad changes pushed him toward a transfer despite his strong goal-scoring record. He describes tension over selection decisions, particularly after being benched against Rangers, and explains how Gordon Strachan’s move to Middlesbrough influenced his decision to join the club. McDonald reflects on later reconciling professionally with Mowbray and enjoying a productive spell at Middlesbrough before moving on, describing the period as formative despite its challenges.

Rangers defeated Raith Rovers 5–1 in a behind‑closed‑doors friendly as new manager Derek McInnes continued preparations for the upcoming season. New signings Ross McCrorie and Dan Neil featured, while several players were absent due to World Cup duty or scheduling. Goals from Lyall Cameron, Tuur Rommens, McCrorie, Nedim Bajrami and Ryan Naderi secured a convincing win before Raith scored a late penalty. Rangers will next travel to Spain for a training camp after scrapping earlier plans for Austria.

Neil Lennon predicts Hearts will struggle to replicate last season’s title challenge after losing key figures, arguing the club’s spine has been weakened. He expects Rangers, now led by Derek McInnes and strengthened by British and Scottish signings, to push Celtic much harder for the Premiership crown. Lennon praises Martin O’Neill’s impact at Celtic and anticipates new signings once the World Cup concludes, emphasising the stability and composure O’Neill brought to the team.

Neil Lennon defends Steve Clarke following Scotland’s World Cup exit, criticising what he describes as an excessive backlash from supporters and media that he believes contributed to Clarke’s decision to resign. He highlights Scotland’s achievements under Clarke, including qualifying for three major tournaments, while arguing that the team lacks a superstar player to change big matches. Lennon distances himself from suggestions he could replace Clarke, stating the role should ideally go to a Scottish manager.

Scott McDonald urges Celtic to sign Motherwell midfielder Elijah Just, praising his goal-scoring runs from midfield and comparing him to Stiliyan Petrov. Just’s club-record fee is expected to be high following strong performances domestically and at the World Cup. McDonald warns that other clubs are interested and believes Celtic should act quickly. He also comments on Celtic’s pursuit of Qarabag striker Camilo Duran and discusses uncertainty surrounding a potential return for Kelechi Iheanacho, citing questions about fitness, cost, and long-term reliability.

Ange Postecoglou has been appointed head coach of Al-Nassr on a two‑year contract, reuniting him with Cristiano Ronaldo and placing him in competition with Brendan Rodgers in the Saudi Pro League. The move follows mixed spells at Tottenham and Nottingham Forest after a successful period at Celtic, as well as punditry work for ITV during the World Cup. The appointment comes after Jorge Jesus led Al-Nassr to a long-awaited league title, with the club now backing Postecoglou for its next phase.

Paul Lambert argues that Callum McGregor is not irreplaceable at Celtic and warns that believing otherwise is dangerous as the club prepares for significant squad changes under Martin O’Neill. He stresses the need for long-term planning and stronger competition in midfield, noting the absence of a clear successor to McGregor. With several fringe players expected to leave and new signings anticipated, Lambert highlights the importance of improving the squad and maintaining consistent performance as Celtic aims to build on last season’s success.

Paul Lambert expresses confidence that Martin O'Neill will demand the necessary transfer backing from Celtic’s hierarchy after last season’s failed recruitment contributed to a Champions League exit. Despite shareholder Dermot Desmond’s pledge of substantial funding, Celtic have yet to make signings while rivals strengthen. Lambert expects strong dialogue between O'Neill and club leadership, arguing lessons have been learned and the manager will insist on improvements to compete domestically and in Europe.

Celtic are pursuing Las Palmas goalkeeper Dinko Horkas as they seek a replacement for the retired Kasper Schmeichel, though competition from Olympiacos and Sevilla and concerns voiced by Las Palmas president Miguel Angel Ramírez complicate the move. Horkas impressed in Spain’s second tier and remains under contract for two more years. Daizen Maeda set a new World Cup record with 78 sprints in Japan’s match against Brazil and, despite hinting at a possible new challenge after a successful season with Celtic, downplayed the physical strain of the performance while emphasising his focus on pressing and team contribution.

Daizen Maeda signaled his intention to leave Celtic, saying Japan’s World Cup loss to Brazil made him realize he must reach a higher level. Despite earning praise for his performance, Maeda said he needs to improve and advance his career. A previous move to Wolfsburg fell through, but Celtic expect renewed interest this summer, with manager Martin O’Neill prepared to allow his departure. Maeda expressed pride in Japan’s progress and gratitude to supporters after their narrow knockout defeat to Brazil.