Celtic Banter Archive February 15 2015

 

Use our rumours form to send us celtic transfer rumours.

15 Feb 2015 22:30:48
hi ed and all. Sorry if this is old news but there are some different views being put forward regarding drinking inside grounds especially in an election year. Would just like to ask anyone who cares to express there opinion. Ed I know you don't drink but if you want to give your op I'd love to hear it. My op is we can't be trusted. And that's the harsh reality. But I'm open to listening to those who think we can be.

Believable2 Unbelievable2

{Ed007's Note - Totally agree, it's a recipe for disaster. Why are Scottish people so preoccupied with alcohol?}

That's the problem I've got mate, I take a drink but I'm not demanding that I can't stop for 2 hours on matchday sadly a lot of people are demanding the rite to have that privelage. I sincerely fear the worst if it's allowed back.

Agree1 Disagree2

{Ed007's Note - It's a Scottish thing, if something's not going the way you want try adding alcohol. Drinking at football games in Scotland is about two things, clubs wanting money and politicians wanting votes, it's as simple as that. If the football was better having a beer would be irrelevant and if you're not going to games because you can't have a beer you should maybe have a look at your lifestyle choices.
We all know not everyone has as sensible an approach as you, Gary.}

15 Feb 2015 23:17:44
The banning of alcohol to the "plebs" in the stadium serves no purpose and is unfair.

It is unfair because people in the best seats are allowed to drink.

It serves no purpose because people just drink before the game and arrive at stadium losses up anyway.

Just do away with the stupid ban and allow clubs to make some extra cash by selling beer.

Agree3 Disagree1

Saw Jim Murphy on the news, think its just another blatant electioneering ploy, I like a drink, but its the minority who like a drink too much that go doolally inside the ground that the no drinking law is in place for, and all the scottish clubs have got those guys, so I think the no drink law should stay in place.

Agree2 Disagree1

I am Irish and I can see no good reason why alcohol should be served at a football match. I enjoy a drink but I don't think a stand full of a crowd of people drinking is wise or safe.

Agree1 Disagree1

{Ed007's Note - We also need to take into account that alcohol can affect asthma and even trigger asthma attacks, never forget we have the Asthmatic CSC to think about before anything else.}

A recipe for disaster sums it up in one phrase!

Agree1 Disagree2

{Ed007's Note - Imagine if they were selling alcohol inside Hampden a fortnight ago, there would have been no control over it and that's where the problems start. The next argument would be the prices are too dear in the stadium so people will want to bring their own in.}

Rab - define plebs. I ask this because drunks and thugs come from in all shapes and sizes and from all walks of life from the mega rich to the out of work. When alcohol gets a grip common sense goes right out the window. How many people have blamed their actions on too much drink and been full of 'genuine' contrition the next day. Do you really believe that society has progressed that much that we can be trusted? You heard the musical lilts being aired across the terraces at Hampden (from both sides though I have to say unbiasedly that mostly from the undead side of the ground). Some people think that there is a Prince from Holland sitting on a big white cuddy suggesting a fifty shades of grey relationship with the head of the Catholic Church. On the other side we have the troops mustering to launch Nelson's column into orbit and marching off into the sunset draped in an Irish tricolour (even though they were born in the Suffering General) to meet a friend called ira. Sorry, the booze ban was the best thing that happened and it must stay in place in my opinion.

Agree0 Disagree1

Was taken to an American Football game and while I am not a great lover of it I have to say they are civilised about it and treat it for what it is, a competitive game. Barbecue and beer in the car park before the game (no line of stewards separating the rival fans). Drink up at the bar during the game and no 'us' and 'them' seating. We were mixed where I was. Lot of banter and joking but no one half blootered looking to fight to the death to defend his teams honour. Even on the receiving end of a thrashing there was no fighting. Every fan accepted it for what it was, discussed how they would have picked a better team and better plays. that's civilised supporters. Can you ever see that in Scotland? Especially Celtic Sevco.

Agree0 Disagree0

Why is it not banned at Rugby?

For me its not the alcohol itself that's the issues here, its the blatant principle involved that working class people (which football is) need this but sports like rugby don't? You either stop it at all sports and concerts or none at all.

What next guys, austerity cuts are fine because folk on low incomes/benefits are lazy?

Agree4 Disagree0

16 Feb 2015 08:13:23
I agree with you Rab. Why not let people buy a pint in the stadium instead of turning up for the game late after having one in a pub somewhere instead. I don't see any reason why there would be more trouble as long as it is policed properly.

Agree1 Disagree0

Mrs e as you used rugby as an example I will do the same. At rugby fans of both sides can sit together with a bottle of beer. I want you to think for a second of the carnage that would cause at a football match. I know a lot of people can be trusted and I will put you into that bracket despite knowing nothing about you. However it only takes one and I think there are a lot more than one at just about every match I go to.

Agree0 Disagree1

16 Feb 2015 12:18:31
Tinytim I think you're taking this way too far. What's the difference between having a few pints at the London Road tavern or wherever or having a few pints in the stadium before the game?

In england they serve alcohol in the stadiums and you don't hear of any trouble there. You're not allowed to take it up to your seat so unless you want to watch the match on the tv downstairs, people are going to have a drink at half time only.

I think it would be good way of bringing in some revenue for our clubs

Agree2 Disagree0

I am not much of a drinker and don't really bother if I have a pint before the game or not . But saying that the revenue that bringing drink back to the grounds would be a great income for a lot of clubs how much would a person Drink during a game 2 or 3 pints at most not going to get drunk on that and as people on here say they have a drink out side the ground before the match so they have alcohol in there body's anyway so why not let them have a drink inside? if that is what they want to do better the clubs get the income than the bars outside as long as the clubs stay vigilant to the fans that look drunk/or to much already not to sell them

Agree2 Disagree0

Mrs E. Rugby fans have proved themselves responsible, football fans, well, speaks for itself really. As I pointed out, so many sports can do it sensibly. I'm sure there is the odd one or two who get a bit ot. However, football tends to attract more than its fair share of knuckledraggers who just want to fight and cause trouble. HenriksT, I wish we could be trusted but we can't. We can't let go over religious bigatory after 325 years and we think that after 20 odd years we can act civilized with a drink! The facts are there to see. Yes people have a last minutes gulp in the bar but you don't get the violence we used to get and that is because of the ban. I am for keeping the ban because it was brought in for a reason and that reason has not gone away. In my opinion.

Agree0 Disagree1

16 Feb 2015 15:29:40
Absolutey no way. The minority will ruin it, no doubt about that. And what about families? Can't we live without a pint for a few hours a day?

Agree0 Disagree1

I hate when I am sitting down to watch the game, and people plough in past me to get to their seat 5 mins after game started . Then at random intervals people who have imbibed before the game disturb me going and coming from toilets . Ten minutes before half time, some hungry fans head out to try to beat queue for food . Fans coming back from food kiosk up to ten minutes after half time . Then they who have to travel far ( all 30 miles ) start leaving around 70 mins . If we add fans going out to buy alcohol and coming back there will be no point in a cantankerous old pensioner going to the match, getting annoyed every few minutes .

Agree0 Disagree0

-Tiny Tim

"We can't let go over religious bigatory after 325 years and we think that after 20 odd years we can act civilized with a drink!"

Totally agree. The fact I still need to seriously consider what pub I can/will watch a Celtic game in, says it all.

In interest of full disclosure, I don't drink - I never saw need or had a taste for it - but if people can't go 90 minutes without a beer, it says more about them than our stadium laws.

Agree0 Disagree2

16 Feb 2015 17:51:56
It's not about whether or not people can go 90 mins without a drink. We see programmes all the time about English football hooligans and British tourists in the likes of Spain. But according to some on here we can trust the english fans to have a drink but not the Scottish? What a load of nonsense. Many fans have a drink before and after the game and there's no trouble. Allowing fans to have a drink at a bar inside the stadium (like the champions club or kerrydale suite already do) and at half time will make next to no difference in terms of trouble. But might make going to the football on a wet Saturday afternoon slightly more enjoyable

Agree1 Disagree0

Totally agree with Henriks Tongue.

This isn't about going 90 mins without alcohol - let's face it, if you can't then there are much bigger issues to be addressed and another subject.

This is about the reason it only happens at football and not any other sport or concerts where there are large crowds.

Agree2 Disagree1

Excellent ED. let's never forget the asthmatic CSC!

Agree0 Disagree1

HT and Mrs E, you are either being extremely hopeful, or extremely naive.

A simple thought experiment: if alcohol had been on sale at Hampden last week, who would have happily taken their children, or let their kids go to that match?

We (as a society) can't be trusted with stuff like this. Simple. It's been proven. It was proven every time there was an old firm game.

The fact people can get a beer before or after the game, doesn't mean it's inconsequential to have one during it. I can have laxative before I go to the swimming baths, and I can have one afterwards - but that doesn't mean that taking one during is a good idea.

All that all means is people can have one before hand, or after - and the small bit of time in between shouldn't matter all that much. Most cinemas don't allow alcohol in them. People manage to watch the film just fine.

You guys are all entitled to your opinions, I just think it's a naive, if hopeful, stance.

Agree0 Disagree1

Chris O2 didn, t know you were irish, I'm a Co Meath man Athboy area.killy.

Agree0 Disagree1

17 Feb 2015 00:21:10
Loads of people saying drink should not be reinstated because there would be carnage. However they seem to be overlooking the fact that there are already loads of drunk people in the stadium and this so called carnage dues nit ensue. Let me tell you my normal ritual for a big game when I lived in Edinburgh. Meet mates in pub have a few beers. Buy carry out for supporters bus and drink it all before reaching glasgow. Upon reaching glasgow go to pub near stadium for some more drinks. Buy another cargo for walking to stadium usually half bottle to recant into juice bottle.if you go to any pub near stadium or down Gallowgate you will see loads of wasted people who are going to game.

Agree1 Disagree0

Killy I am from Newry and I believe I am a year younger than you old man.🐵🐵

Agree0 Disagree0

Why would we not take them PP?

You are making the strange assumption that becasue alcohol is on sale, everyone will get drunk and behave like a thug - why would assume that?

Also the laxative you've taken before the game, you'll feel the affects during the game eeeeekkkk lol

Agree0 Disagree0

Chris 02 I have a good friend from newry you may know him Frank Price (aka bobo) another I knew some time ago Martin Fearon.killy.

Agree0 Disagree0

17 Feb 2015 08:37:26
The poeticpatient. You're not getting my point. And the one you made about laxatives? Wtf. We should stop selling sugary drinks because they are bad for you. If people can't go 90 mins without a drink of coke then there's something wrong! Like Rab says, plenty of fans have a few drinks before the match. There's no trouble any more. If they sold alcohol in hampden for the semi final I honestly don't believe there would have been more trouble than there was. The fans were segregated, and plenty of them will have had a drink already.
This is about people being allowed the choice to go for a beer with their mates at a football match. They're going to have one anyway so why not allow it in the concourse of the stadium?

Agree0 Disagree0

-HT

I am getting your point. I just think it's ridiculously naive (and misinformed) as proven by this statement:

"There's no trouble anymore."

My point about the laxatives isn't difficult to comprehend. Just because you can do a and b, doesn't mean c is a good idea. This whole argument is based around the fact that you can do x and y before or after. Good. Then do that. It doesn't need to be inside. And if you are going to use it as a drum to bang your freedom of choice argument, then why don't you do the same for smoking? You can't smoke in a stadium. You can before game, after game. so why can't you enjoy a cigar with your mates at a football match?

If you want to be pedantic about sugary drinks, then to answer your question - no I don't think they should be. They are terrible. But that's a whole other issue - and if you want to start a thread on it, I'll comment on the merits of healthy eating and the like. What I will say is, in this context, I have never been threatened/attacked or chased through Ibrox/Govan etc by groups of aggressive people out of their heads on slush puppies.

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - Great point about the smoking ban, I said the same thing to a friend last night.}

17 Feb 2015 14:33:27
I thought it was a bit strange when they first banned smoking in the stadium that you could smoke in the concourse but not in the stands. However the smoking ban prohibits smoking in all parts of the stadium so I don't really get where you're coming from with that one. I don't fancy sitting next to someone with their smoke blowing in my face! But perhaps you're the type of guy who gets annoyed with a lot of things, particularly if you don't do them yourself. Get down off your high horse. When was the last time there was trouble?

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - I don't want to sit next to a guy reeking of drink and slevering a load of $hit in my ear. It's illegal to drink and smoke inside the stadium so if they are going to change the law regarding drink then why not smoking?

This is about people being allowed the choice to smoke at a football match. They're going to have one anyway so why not allow it in the concourse of the stadium?

HT-

The only thing that annoys me about this, is the hypocrisy of it all.

I'm not on any high horse. I gave my opinion and said you are entitled to yours. You are the one banging the drum. Who exactly are you trying to convince?

Agree0 Disagree0

17 Feb 2015 15:57:56
I'm not trying to convince anyone. In simply saying that in england it's ok for them to sell alcohol but for some reason we can't be trusted. It doesn't make sense. If selling alcohol in the stadium, sensibly of course, will make the club some extra money and perhaps attract a few more punters along who would otherwise watch it in the pub, then where's the harm?

Ed I can't take that comment about smoking seriously because it's a completely different issue. Passive smoking has been proven to cause illness. Probably the reason smoking is banned in public places all around the world!

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - You can walk down a street smoking, you can't walk down a street drinking, why not?}

17 Feb 2015 19:00:39
What's your point ed?

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - You don't get much more of a public place than walking down the street yet it's alcohol that's banned why is that? If somebody is standing having a beer in the concourse of the stadium why can't smokers have a smoke in the concourse? As of now both drinking and smoking are illegal and against the stadium rules, if they are going to overturn one they should overturn both.
If a smoker is expected to sit without a smoke for the 90 mins even though they are addicted to tobacco, unless you're addicted to alcohol, you should be able to sit for 90 mins without a drink.
Not many people who go to games these days can remember drinking being allowed in stadiums, there's no reason to change that now, everyone's used to it and matchdays are now more family orientated, would you take a toddler with you to the game and go for a pint before the match or at HT, would you take a toddler into a pub?
As I said at the start, drinking at football games in Scotland is about two things, clubs wanting money and politicians wanting votes, it's as simple as that. There's a reason why Scottish people are regularly portrayed as drunken clowns on the TV, we as a race seem to have a need to involve alcohol in any activity with a blasé approach that alcohol will solve all our problems, now we're saying it could make Scottish football better ffs! It's ANY excuse for a drink.
One look at the Tartan Army should be enough for anyone to see the dangers of selling alcohol in stadiums.}

17 Feb 2015 19:08:21
************TEXT DELETED FOR STUPIDITY*******

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - I edited your post, I've already met my daily quota of gilfnards I need to deal with.}

17 Feb 2015 19:57:54
The reason you shouldn't be allowed to smoke in the concourse is because of the dangers of passive smoking. If someone wants they're nicotine fix then take an E-cig. Again, it's not about people not being able to go 90 mins without a drink. There's a social aspect. You seem to have missed the point again. If you take a toddler to the game that sells alcohol, does that mean you have to have a drink? The option would be there for anyone wishing it but to say that it would cause problems is presumptuous at best. I'll go back to my point about English games. They have it and no problems. And are us Scots any worse than them?

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - E-Cigs are banned within the stadium.}

17 Feb 2015 20:25:37
You sure about that Ed?

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - I remember reading they were banned from stadiums in England so I'm assuming it's the same across the board. To be honest I'd be more worried about what's in them than what's in a normal cigarette but that's another subject altogether.
Look at people's reaction to this, is their priority to see a game of football or to keep their buzz going? There's people getting so het up about this they'd rather talk about it than football. Ask yourself why, and that's the reason it isn't a good idea, if alcohol is involved there is a lot of people who will abuse it, it's part of the Scottish psyche. You should see the looks you get off people when you tell them you don't drink, you might as well have told them you're Amish.
Not even at football if you go into a pub up here with folk and order a soft drink you get the looks and 'have a real drink', go into a pub in England and do the same and nobody bats an eyelid.
Alcohol and it's problems are ingrained in Scottish culture, we shouldn't be encouraging it. If this happens there will be carry-outs being sneaked in left right and centre, you'll see the half bottles of vodka and wine getting passed about in the concourse and before you know it there's an argument over a fag or someone saying the wrong thing, anyone who can't see that is kidding themselves, it happens up and down the country EVERY weekend.}

Sorry ed just been reading back on the question I asked yesterday and I noticed you we're criticising the tartan army. They are national treasure. Annoying locals for a beer breath kiss. Lifting up there kilts to show woman who didn't ask to see there manhood and urinating and vomiting on national monuments. Please don't have a go at our famous tartan army. They are the country's pride and joy. You may sense just the slightest hint of sarcasm there

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - They're no better than Rangers supporters were and the zombies are - a permanent embarrassment and an occasional disgrace. Imaging the field day the media would have if that was CFC supporters descending on cities and behaving like that, and people want to let them drink inside Hampden!
You forgot to mention the obligatory picture of them kissing some local female's cheek, just to show how nice they really are under all their vulgar alcohol-fuelled behaviour.
I wonder how many people who want alcohol sold would like their wife/daughter to be working in a kiosk or stewarding in the LL stand the first time Sevco visit and they're all scooping there.
As Jimmy Reid said in 1971, 'There will be no hooliganism. There will be no vandalism. There will be no bevvying ... because the world is watching us.'
It's not just Celtic Park we're talking about, it's all stadia in the country, would having beer served inside Ibrox made the atmosphere surrounding the recent Hearts game any better?}

Do you know I sholud have went further because that was on my mind when I was posting. The national disgrace if it was a celtic fan acting in the way they do. I want scotland to win, but I find the tartan army to be major pain the arsenal. Slevering and slurring all over you. Rubbing a child's head as they shout in there faces all rite wee man. Well he was until you decided you wanted invade his space ya pest. And as you've clearly stated only scotland would celebrate that behaviour.

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - Yet Scottish people complain when people describe them as a nation of drunks etc, some Scottish people love it and promote it as if it's something to be proud of. They're nothing but a crowd of drunken middle-class plastic fans acting like drunk middle-class to$$ers and making an embarrassment of themselves and Scotland wherever they go - a Scottish Bullingdon Club.
I'd bet my last £ that everyone would get a surprise if the released the figures regards domestic abuse/violence surrounding the Scotland v England game. We as a country should be promoting a healthier lifestyle, playing up to the gallery like drunken slobs. Look what happens when people like Le Guen and Ronny Deila come in, they're laughed at for promoting a healthy diet etc, it's a joke, Scots would rather look up to Rab C Nesbitt and brag about how much they drank on Saturday, even women are doing, on Facebook at 2 o'clock on a Tuesday afternoon you see the 'wine o'clock' posts appearing, years ago a woman would be mortified if folk knew they were drinking at that time, I had a mate's mam that used to drink vodka in a mug and kid on it was tea she was that embarrassed about her drinking.
Thinking back she should have just flung on a kilt and a CU Jimmy hat and my mate would have seen the funny side of her pi$$ing the couch and setting the kitchen on fire.}

@ED007 Brilliant big chap (rofl) Are you trying to win a Mr Popular award? don't hold back there just tell us how you feel. (y)

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - Pfft, like I care what people think of me, come on! You should feel privileged & honoured that I put my thoughts and opinions on here for you to read. It's hard to keep your personal standards so high but you know if anyone can then it's going to be me.}

I know we are drifting off point but I do wonder wtf goes on In people's heads at times. It wasn't so long ago everywhere you went people were actually complaining that they are no longer allowed 2 pints before driving home from work because the amount they could drink and drive was lowered. Honsetly 2 pints and then drive a car and claim your ok to do so. And back to my original point about not drinking for 2 hours, you could stop the tartan army drinking for 2 weeks and still smell them, with there replica Spain 82 shirt and the same Unwashed kilt they've wore to the last 50 scotland games with no underwear. Well be coming down the road. We know we funking smell you.

Agree1 Disagree0

15 Feb 2015 20:17:48
i like where RD is taking the scottish game. He has been the first in a VERY LONG TIME to highlight something that is so obvious in terms of football "up here"

we have a game "up here" that has tradition pouring out of every part of the game
we like our game up here
we can do with our game up here what we want to do with our game up here
we can play to full houses up here if we want to
we can have fierce competition up here and be happy with the competition
we can play whatever style/brand of football we want up here

RD basically reminded us that we don't have to be anything else other than ourselves

we don't need to apologise for our game up here
we can embrace our game up here
we can promote our game up here (within) and care less about the wider world out there (or should I say, be less concerned about doing a Manchester United or Bayern)

we should focus on what makes our games good and build from there

we are not english and we do not have to compete with the EPL

we are celtic and we have our battles to win and trophies to accumulate, and so long as we are given a product that we can consume.and the game maintains a sufficiently high level of professionalism, scottish football can prosper (even if it is contained within our shores commercially speaking)

imagine for a minute a well run, competitive rangers and a steadfast aberdeen. a financially healthy hearts and a young and dynamic Hibernian with dundee united on the coat tails.

add in a colourful celtic with swagger and class and we have ourselves a professional game worthy of our interest

well done RD for saying that we should look within and stop looking behind to things that will never become of us

Believable2 Unbelievable1

Good post. What you have in fact highlighted is this was Scottish football pre souness and murray.

Clubs lived within their means and transfer cash was, generally, kept in the game up here.When murray, aided by his pet monkey masterston, started throwing cash at rangers every club seemed to do the same.Remember murderwell, on appalling gates signing spencer? Aberdeen too ran up huge debt spending fortunes on players they could not afford.

Time to go back to the future I think.

Agree2 Disagree0

Well said mate actually brilliant piece there and so true I took from Ronnie from day one bought into all his new methods and the direction he was wanting to take our great club and is great to see people changing there minds about him and everything he's trying to do breath of fresh air for someone so honest.Thursday will be our hardest game to date so we can see how far we have come then

Agree1 Disagree0

I may have started out a doubter about Deila but I quickly realised he is probably the best manager we could get . I think he really appreciates been manager of Celtic and he wants to change the playing structure upside down so that we can be successful not only in Scotland but in Europe.

Agree2 Disagree0

I liked deila from the start but I thought it would have taken him a season to get his brand of football up and running so I think we are ahead of schedule

Agree1 Disagree0

15 Feb 2015 20:14:28
I see Rangers are to let Inter train at Murray park with a possible light training match on Thursday morning. Does Mancini not know anything about McCulloch? I bet a few of the Inter players will feel the elbow

Believable1 Unbelievable0

Laughable frankly. Trying to seem like a big club when they don't have the cash for toilet paper at aucenwherie.

Agree1 Disagree0

For a wee moment I was worried about Inter getting use of MurrayPark . However when I realised how poor the last team we played who trained on MurrayPark then I realised we had nothing to fear.

Agree2 Disagree0

Lets hope Durie and co conduct the training sessions.

Agree0 Disagree0

Has anyone noticed if this has affected the odds at the bookies in Celtic to win?

Agree0 Disagree0

Had to laugh at the quote "Rangers to hand Inter keys to Murray Park" what do they think Mike Ashley is gone yo hand them back that easy.

Those keys must get passed about like a dirty movie.

Agree2 Disagree0

I know its not even Rangers property until they pay back Ashley's loan! All the sweeter if we gub them with that mob trying to help Inter out.

Agree0 Disagree0

15 Feb 2015 19:54:44
The BIG ISSUE for the Inter game goes back to the "system" that RD prefers and the players (on form) that we have.

I would be astonished if RD doesn't narrow the game and opts to lose the two out and out wingers. This means that there will no place for Forrest or GMS, or Tonev or McGregor or anyone who can be categorised as a "winger".

RD will (I think) rely on the two full backs moving up in support when the opportunity presents itself meaning that one of the middle 3 will have to "cover" when either full back chosen to provide the width. I imagine that Izzy will be the prime candidate in terms of motoring forward.

If Izzy is to play in the role of left full back and supporting "winger", this means that we can probably go with a more positive approach on the right with Matthews lying a little deeper (as the insurance) giving Armstrong a berth.

RD has to go with an in-form and fit eleven with the right mentality for a full house at Celtic Park. This suggests to me that he may go with Gordon, Matthews, Izzy, VVD and Denayer. That gives us Brown and Bitton as the "anchor midfielders". Johanssen will (in my view) play a more restrained game albeit still supporting one up top. I think that player will be Guidetti. I think Armstrong and Griffiths will play but how and where exactly I am not sure; this goes back to my "narrower" set up proposal. If you assume Izzy can get up the park with a midfielder providing the cover where necessary, this may allow Griffiths to get quite close to Guidetti giving us two up top from time to time (this could confuse Inter) .

The more narrow we play, the more likely we can get the 2 up top when we have possession albeit with an imbalance on the left side (with an over reliance on Izzy to do the work of 2 players).


The other option would be stokes and armstrong (left of centre and right of centre) with Griffiths up top, but I just don't see Stokes's form being good enough to merit a place ahead of the more rumbustious Guidetti.

I think Inter will gobble up ONE UP TOP whoever it is. The key will be getting a 2nd option playing off the main striker quickly; this will come down to "awareness" on the night for me.

This will be an interesting gauge of RD's

mentality
coaching ability
confidence
motivational capabilities

Thursday will be a huge test and I think we will be able to tell a lot about CFC "thinking" from the line up itself but whatever that line up is, I would fireguard where the broadcaster lines them up on the TV and keep a keen eye on the spaces the players behind the midfield take up.

Thursday calls for something a little more bespoke

Just my view mind

Believable1 Unbelievable0

Ronny has already stated we will attack but I suspect we will be a tad more secure at the back. This is a big step up for us and will be an excellent gauge of how we are shaping as a team.

Agree0 Disagree0

The system will not change!

Gordon

Matthhews
Denayer
Virgil
Izzy

Brown
Bitton

Johansen
Armstrong
GMS

Griffiths

Commons to come on if fit. Wakaso also.

Agree0 Disagree0

15 Feb 2015 18:58:38

Believable4 Unbelievable0

15 Feb 2015 19:45:52
Ha ha ED007 this is up there with the guy in the Polish nightclub lol

Agree1 Disagree2

{Ed007's Note - I had a hunch you'd like it :=D

15 Feb 2015 20:52:45
Absolutely priceless .lol

Agree0 Disagree0

Watched it 3 times in a row, hilarious, I'll merit it worthy of a super Ronny Roar.

Agree0 Disagree0

Still laughing at this, even Mrs Jhedi was howling.

Agree0 Disagree0

15 Feb 2015 22:23:23
Class lol funny as fook

Agree0 Disagree0

Brilliant!

Agree0 Disagree0

15 Feb 2015 13:34:36
Been reading through everyone's suggestions/predictions for the lineup on Thursday. Most people seem to have Biton starting alongside Brown. I've been impressed by Biton lately, particularly in the old firm game. However I feel his major weakness is, and always has been, his unwillingness to put in a meaty tackle and stop an attack dead on its feet. This worries me as Inter have some pretty creative midfielders. Guarin and Kovacic in particular will be ones to watch. Kovacic has been rested for Inters game against Atalanta today so I'd expect him to start either beside Guarin deep in midfield or in a role further forward. He's very good on the ball and can often drift past players very easily. I think if we're to win on Thursday we'll have to play a game of controlled aggression and employ pressing for the whole of the game from back to front. Personally I'd like to see Johansen start beside Brown and Armstrong further forward because of their high energy levels and stamina.

Believable1 Unbelievable4

I would set up cautiously with this Inter game and Vigil and Denayer need to be tight.

We cannot be pressing high up the park and leave gaps like we do, no offence to Aberdeen (our nearest rivals) but they are no Inter Milan.

Think he has to go with Brown and Biton and this is where I miss a player like Wanyama - goals, presence and not afraid of a tackle. Mulgrew also brings that wee bit of experience as well, I know not a popular choice but still.

I love that we've added GMS and in particular Armstrong, I would give them both game time but reckon it will be more suited to Armstong.

Anyway, can't wait!

Agree3 Disagree0

Bitton learned his lession diving in last season in his European debut and got sent off . To me one of his main attributes is Bitton' s ability to stay on his feet and make the player in procession waste the ball.
Matthew's dived in yesterday trying to make the killer tackle and the player got past him and we conceded a goal.

Agree3 Disagree1

15 Feb 2015 13:10:31
I see lots of posts regarding who will/will not play v Inter today. I think Ronny will start with Guidetti and bring Griffiths on around 60 minutes. Reason for this? Inter will play a typical Italian away game, sit in and break quickly.The advantage with Guidetti, if he is on it, will be the close control he has.We need to make sure the ball sticks in and around their box, this for me is vital. I also think the atmosphere might bring out the very best in him, he has spoken plenty about dying to see a full Celtic Park, well it will be heaving, and with us in a good place and backing Ronny it might be one of those amazing nights we have now and again.

The reason I think he will throw Griffiths on is simple, pace.Twenty or so minutes to go and Griffiths will be well up for it and might just run them ragged, if our ball retention has been good. This will be a game for full use of all we have in our armoury.I do however have one worry. Matthews. Ponderous again yesterday, he tried a quick throw at two up that led to their goal, and seems to be unwilling to clatter into tackles.Has his injury troubles got to him?This worries me. And let's not forget Effie! game time for him maybe? there's a bigger sweat.

Believable2 Unbelievable0

15 Feb 2015 13:34:32
GJ good points as always, I agree about pace which is why I think GMS will also come on in second half, I hope Ronny plays Griffiths and Guidetti from the start as I feel Griffiths can benefit fom the flicks and knock ons, I wish Lustig was fit but Mathews is more than capable. We should be concentrating on worrying them as I think their confidence might be fragile and if we can score first goal we can win, big ask over two legs so I feel we need a lead of any kind going to the San Siro and 1-0 a lot better than 2-1. But I would also take 0-0

Agree0 Disagree4

Don't know what to make of Guidetti at all? Can't see his future at Man City

Not sure, do you guys?

Agree0 Disagree0

You could be right GJ. My thoughts are we could win or lose this game depending on the full backs.If we play it right they could be a major asset, if not we could be very exposed if they too high up the park. 1 thing for sure the Italians will know this. They may not be a great Inter side but they always know how to win a game by hook or by crook.

Agree1 Disagree0

Hi GJ, some good points but he must start with LG in my opinion Mancini will know Guidetti's game inside out IMO having managed him an will be able to guide his CH's accordingly

Better off with pace and the element of surprise

Agree0 Disagree0

15 Feb 2015 11:39:03
I see people debating about playing Guidetti on Thursday but I think our focus should be on whether Commons, if fit, or Armstrong plays. My preference would be Armstrong as he is more mobile and looks to be good in tackle as well as see a good pass, Commons has not really done it for me in europe but maybe bring him on in second half. My team therefore would be Gordon, Mathews, Van Dijk, Denayer, Izzaguirre, Brown, Biton, Johansen, Armstrong, Griffiths and either Stokes/Guidetti. subs Zaluska, Ambrose, GMS, Forrest, Scepovic, either Stokes/Guidetti, Commons

Believable1 Unbelievable11

15 Feb 2015 12:49:10
If Griffiths starts he has to be the striker for me, the boys wasted out wide. I say bench JG. I'd go for
Gordon
izzy vvd denyer lustig (if fit)
Bitton Brown
Armstrong Johansson
Commons
Griffiths

I'm not keen on Forrest tbh but I'm not sure Gms would be the perfect start either. Stokes even in the rangers game went missing to much I felt and I'm not sure he is good enough either.

Think we need to offload some of these spare attacking players we have in the ssummer and bring in 3 cb's, a left back and a midfield enforcer like wanyama because when browns out we struggle, I like Bitton but he doesn't have the "broonie" as part of his game

Agree1 Disagree0

Darrenbhoy is it Celtic you are talking about or Manchester City .
I think talking about bringing in 3 centre backs and a left back isn't likely for Celtic. We haven't found a war chest , or a money making machine .

Agree0 Disagree0

16 Feb 2015 11:35:26
Do when vvd and denyer leave in the summer what should we replace them with? Happy thoughts?

Agree0 Disagree0

15 Feb 2015 00:32:34
I c young Jay Beatties goal @ half time against Hamilton is up for goal of the month, wot an amazing gesture.
Ed, can Joe bloggs vote.??

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed007's Note - I'd imagine so, it's a popularity poll rather than a GOTM competition. And here's me thinking we're trying to get people to take our game serious as well.}

15 Feb 2015 12:30:20
I see you're point ed. But you can say what you want about Scottish football, clubs, refs etc but with Celtic showing a shining example of charity, from all the stuff with Jay, liegh
Griffiths buying that hearts fan his Xmas presents again after he got robbed, the 10 grand donation to ricksons charity and these are just 3 examples of the amazing things or club do. It's makes us as a country look better and shines some light from all the darkness caused by sevco filled news papers. I think the other clubs in the spl are starting to follow out lead also like Hamilton. We maybe don't have the best product on the field but off it we are second to none charity wise and that if nothing else makes me proud to be a Celtic and spfl fan.

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - And all of that stuff has nothing to do with including a goal a fan scored in the GOTM competition and is irrelevant to the point I made. We're trying to get others not to look at our league as mickey mouse yet we have a 'goal' by a supporter in the official SPFL GOTM competition. What competition, league or cup was the goal scored in? The goal doesn't exist in any records.
Your wee fantasy about CFC being a shining light with everyone following their lead is cute though, and extremely naive.}

Ed I've not been on this thing for long but you haven't came across as a person who gives a funk what people think let alone our over payed neighbours down south. I think it's a nice gesture that even ssn is embracing so just embrace it As a nice touch and don't worry what others think. Cause at the end of the day mate if they don't respect scotish football as it stands then a Good jan goal of the month competition ain't going to change there opinions.

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - What's next, goals scored in the warm up or scored on FIFA on the PS4? I remember CFC supporters war-cry was 'sporting integrity' but like a lot of things it must have just have mattered when it suited them. Why was there no goals from Ricksen's benefit match included?
The entire thing's a farce and once again shows that the people running our game don't have a clue what they're doing. Something else a lot of CFC supporters say - when it suits them.}

The people running our game are frickin brainless there's no disputing that. And I couldn't stand the guy as a ranger but nothing would've given me greater pleasure than seeing fernando getting a pre arranged penalty as a gotm award because no one deserves what that man has been reduced to. Just like young jay. We are very fortunate to be able to life a full and healthy life and for once the people running our game have done a sensible thing. What I'm saying is just embrace this nice little touch in life mate because scottish football is lacking in it:

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - I'm quite capable of deciding for myself what to embrace and spare me your sanctimonious 'we are very fortunate to be able to live a full and healthy life', you don't know me and you certainly don't speak for me.}

Ok ed I will fully retract the wording of my last statement. I wasn't for a second telling you how to live your life. And hope no great offense was taken. To word it differently I agree the game is being run by people and I can't wish fernando well because there is no well from what that man has, just long gruelling pain. I just think it was a nice touch not to be taken to seriously but I'm a sincere non confrontational person so no offense ed.

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed007's Note - You can't make general statements when you don't know everyone's circumstances. Not everyone on here is in the best of health, should Timalloy get a Scotland cap because he has had heart problems and it would cheer him up?
The next thing will be a Fan of the Year, it's a certainty! I've been sick in my mouth a bit just thinking about it, I can see the #celticfamily frothing at the Tweet over that.}

Well like I said ed you are spot on. I was generalising. I am very lucky in life I am healthy my wife is healthy and I am blessed with 2 healthy young kids. But that doesn't mean everyone is the same as me. I wish nothing but well on people. So my apologies once more for generalising. Hopefully I never see you generalising on here or I will call you on it ha ha. Kidding. I still maintain I would love to see that wee chap win the gotm comp. And as for #celtic family I love to see the celtic win and I like a blether about the hoops but you have no idea how far down my list of priorities they are. I live and breath for my family not the celtic family.

Agree0 Disagree0

 
Change Consent