CELTIC return to league business this evening, against Hearts at Tynecastle, and Neil Lennon has made one change to the starting XI. James Forrest returns to the side while Kris Commons drops to the bench.
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New Bhoy Pawel Brozek makes his first appearance in the Hoops’ squad and has been named on the bench.
Hearts v Celtic: Team news
Hearts v Celtic: Team news
By: Newsroom Staff on 08 Feb, 2012 18:38
CELTIC return to league business this evening, against Hearts at Tynecastle, and Neil Lennon has made one change to the starting XI. James Forrest returns to the side while Kris Commons drops to the bench. New Bhoy Pawel Brozek makes his first appearance in the Hoops' squad and has been named on the bench. Kick-off in Edinburgh is 7.45pm and the match is live on Celtic TV. Follow @celticfc on Twitter for live updates.? CELTIC (4-4-2): Forster; Matthews, Rogne, K. Wilson, Mulgrew; Forrest, Brown, Wanyama, Ledley; Hooper, Samaras Subs: Zaluska, Majstorovic, Cha, Ki, Commons, Stokes, Brozek
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THE players could hardly have a bigger or more testing challenge when they return to league business tonight against Hearts at Tynecastle.
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Games in the capital are always tense and close-run affairs and tonight should be no different as Neil Lennon’s side aim to continue their exceptional run of domestic victories.
And we will have live coverage of the match on the club’s official online channel, Celtic TV.
Get all the action from Tynecastle - LIVE
Get all the action from Tynecastle - LIVE
By: Gregor Kyle on 08 Feb, 2012 16:01
THE players could hardly have a bigger or more testing challenge when they return to league business tonight against Hearts at Tynecastle. Games in the capital are always tense and close-run affairs and tonight should be no different as Neil Lennon's side aim to continue their exceptional run of domestic victories. And we will have live coverage of the match on the club's official online channel, Celtic TV. Our commentary team of Gerry Harte and Paul Cuddihy will be on air 10 minutes before the 7.45pm kick-off and we have a variety of subscription packages available for supporters ? in the UK and Ireland and overseas. Supporters overseas can get live video coverage, with the match available to watch again immediately after the final whistle. Meanwhile, supporters in the UK and Ireland can get live audio coverage - with the game up and available to watch from midnight tonight. You can get also get live news updates from the match, as and when it happens, through a variety of official media. Having launched the club's official Twitter feeds last week, we will have live tweets from our reporters at the game tonight. We will also announce any team news, as and when it arrives, via @CelticFC on twitter.com We will also announce tonight's team lines and carry our match report on the club's official Facebook page ? which you can find at facebook.com/CelticFC Then, on the official site, we will have our minute-by-minute report from Tynecastle, which you can follow during the match. After the final whistle, we will also publish our comprehensive match reports. The media team here at Celtic Park will provide comprehensive coverage of every firs- team game as Neil Lennon and his players continue their fight for the SPL title.
Login to http://www.celticfc.tv/ to find out more about the club's official online channel.Short Story
FIT-AGAIN Celtic stopper Kelvin Wilson reckons the competition for starting places at Parkhead is stronger than ever as the SPL title race enters the crucial final third.
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Kelvin Wilson: Celtic defenders are thriving on competition for places
Feb 8 2012
kelvin wilson
FIT-AGAIN Celtic stopper Kelvin Wilson reckons the competition for starting places at Parkhead is stronger than ever as the SPL title race enters the crucial final third.
Celtic head to Tynecastle tonight looking to stretch their lead over current champions Rangers to four points.
And former Nottingham Forest defender Wilson, who returned from a lengthy injury lay-off in Saturday’s Scottish Cup victory over Inverness, knows he can’t take his place in the starting XI for granted, not with Thomas Rogne, Charlie Mulgrew, Daniel Majstorovic and Glenn Loovens all available for selection.
Wilson told his club’s official website: “Obviously I want to stay in the team now but it's down to the gaffer when I will play again and it's going to be hard considering so many are back from injury now.
“It’s a good thing for the gaffer because he has so many players, but it is hard work for us because we have so many to compete with.
?We thrive on it, though. We’re never negative to each other. We won't put anyone down as we are supportive of each other when someone does well and when they are going out to play you wish them all the best.
?Everyone wants to play and everyone wants the same as you so you hold no grudges.”
Celtic haven’t lost a league match for four months since their last trip to face Hearts in the capital.
Victory tonight would make it 13 straight league victories ahead of Saturday’s home meeting with Inverness. But Wilson has taken heed of his gaffer’s warning against complacency.
He said: “Hearts are always up there challenging in or around the top three so they never make it easy for you at their own place.
“We saw last Saturday that Inverness are not an easy side either and I doubt they will come to Glasgow just to sit back. They will want to get something out of the game too.”
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Celtic boss Neil Lennon has praised captain Scott Brown and believes there are similarities between himself and the midfielder.
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Lennon hails Brown
Hoops manager acknowledges midfielder’s impact
Last Updated: February 8, 2012 12:47pm
Scott Brown: Scottish Premier League Player of the Month
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Celtic boss Neil Lennon has praised captain Scott Brown and believes there are similarities between himself and the midfielder.
The 26-year-old made his comeback from injury in November and has played a central role in the Hoops’ impressive run of 15 games unbeaten.
Skipper Brown has just been awarded the Player of the Month accolade for the Scottish Premier League for January.
And, despite recognising some resemblances with his own game, Lennon admits that the Scotland international is better player than he was.
“I think he’s got more attributes than I had in terms of his running power and his eye for a goal,” he said.
Fantastic“He conducts himself very well on the park. His disciplinary record this season is fantastic. I’m not sure how many bookings he’s got, if any.
“In terms of his discipline on the park, it’s never been an issue for me. He was a little bit hot-headed earlier in his career but we all were.
“He has matured a lot quicker than most people have done. I think he’s had to, with the responsibility of the armband.”
Brown will lead the side at Tynecastle on Wednesday as they look to avenge their most recent defeat which was four months ago.
ConfidenceHearts beat the Hoops 2-0 in October but Lennon is adamant the result will not affect his side and believes any pressure to extend their SPL lead to four points over rivals Rangers will be dealt with easily.
“I don’t think it gives it any more importance,” he added. “It’s the most important game of the season because it’s the next one.
“We have a chance to extend our lead at the top of the table and just try to put pressure on everybody else.
“I think we are in a different place to where we were then. Confidence is good. The team is playing very well and they are taking a lot of pride in what they are doing at the moment.
“Whether this brings extra pressure or not, I don’t know. But I’m sure it’s pressure they can cope with.”
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Lennon hails Brown
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You’re not signed in Sign in Sign upHearts v Celtic: team news and preview
Lennon hails Brown
08 February 2012 12:04 GMT
296685Celtic manager Neil Lennon believes there are similarities between himself and Scott Brown - but insists his skipper is a better player.
The midfielder has had a big impact on the Hoops’ current impressive form since making his return from an ankle injury at the end of November.
The Celtic captain has now been rewarded for his efforts by being named Clydesdale Bank Premier League player of the month for January.
Lennon said: “I’m delighted for him, I think he deserves it.
“He is playing with great authority on the pitch and he is an excellent captain.
“He has the respect of the players in the dressing room, which is very important to be a captain of a big club. I think he has matured.
“Getting over the ankle injury, I always felt we would get Scott back to his best and now we are seeing Scott at his best.”
Asked if he sees similarities between himself as a player and Brown, the manager added: “I do, yes. In terms of personality.
“I think he’s got more attributes than I had in terms of his running power and his eye for a goal.
“I’m just very pleased with how he has progressed in the role he has been given. He conducts himself very well on the park.
“He has matured a lot quicker than most people have done. I think he’s had to, with the responsibility of the armband.
“He’s a tough boy. He’s mentally tough, he’s physically tough. He’s not dirty. He looks after himself and he looks after his team-mates very, very well.”
Celtic face Hearts in the SPL on Wednesday night and Lennon said: “We have a chance to extend our lead at the top of the table and just try to put pressure on everybody else.
“Confidence is good. The team is playing very well and they are taking a lot of pride in what they are doing at the moment.”
Polish striker Pawel Brozek could make his debut but defender Mikael Lustig (hip) remains on the sidelines while fellow new signing Rabiu Ibrahim, who has not featured due to red tape, is also not in the squad.
Goalkeeper Marian Kello does not know if he will play for Hearts again after risking reprisals from owner Vladimir Romanov and the club’s board for speaking out over his omission from the team.
Kello missed Sunday’s 1-1 William Hill Scottish Cup draw with St Johnstone and is set to remain unavailable for selection against Celtic after clashing with the Hearts board over his refusal to move to Austria Vienna on transfer deadline day.
With the media assembled for the pre-match press conference ahead of the Celtic game, Kello opted to hold an impromptu briefing of his own to tell his side of the story.
“I don’t know exactly what is going to happen,” said Kello, who is out of contract at the end of the season and says he has not been offered a new deal.
“The situation is very difficult. They should show me respect. For example, if they want me to negotiate a new contract, don’t force me out of here.”
Hearts’ financial predicament is well documented, with a winding-up petition currently being processed through the Court of Session over an unpaid tax bill the club are confident of paying.
Kello appears to have angered Romanov and director Sergejus Fedotovas after the club missed out on a 100,000 euro (#83,000) fee for him.
Kello was unhappy at the 18-month contract offered and being coerced into the move.
He added: “I want to play for Hearts. They said they don’t want me because next season, because of the money problem, they want to work with the youngsters.
“The club have signed two young keepers, I’ve been told. I don’t figure in the future of the club. I was not offered a new contract. They forced me to go and they were saying `If you don’t go, you might not play’.”
The 29-year-old Slovakia international had missed training last week with a back complaint but warmed up for the Saints match and was fit to play.
Kello said: “If I have a chance to play, I will play. I will play 100% because it was the club who gave me the chance to be here, to improve and to get into the (Slovakia) national team.
“I’ve been here for three and a half years. I’ve tried to be honest and fight for the club and they just try to put me down all the time. I don’t know why. I try always my best for the club.”
Midfielder Ian Black serves a one-match suspension, winger David Templeton (groin) is a doubt and left-back Danny Grainger (groin) could be in contention while striker Kevin Kyle (hip) remains a long-term absentee.
Copyright (C) PA Sport 2012.
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?Short Story
Wednesday February 8th Scott Brown rounded off a fine run of performances when he was named Player of the Month for January, after a three man panel revealed their choice yesterday....
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Marian Kello may have been frozen out of the picture at Hearts, but he insists he has no desire to secure a switch to SPL leaders Celtic.
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Hoops of no interest to Kello
Jilted Jambos keeper rules out Celtic switch
Last Updated: February 8, 2012 10:05am
Marian Kello: Still hoping to force his way back into contention at Hearts
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Marian Kello may have been frozen out of the picture at Hearts, but he insists he has no desire to secure a switch to SPL leaders Celtic.
The Slovakian keeper is among those currently paying the price of financial upheaval at Tynecastle, with Hearts revealing that a ‘political’ issue is preventing them from fielding the shot-stopper.
Having snubbed the opportunity to join Austria Vienna during the winter transfer window, club owner Vladimir Romanov informed Kello that he would no longer be considered for selection.
Having been forced onto the sidelines, it was expected that the 29-year-old would look to secure a move away from the Edinburgh-based side.
A switch to Celtic has been touted, but Kello says he has no desire to swap life in the wilderness at Hearts for life on the bench at Parkhead.
At an impromptu press conference called on Tuesday, he said: “Would I go to Celtic? No. And you know why? Because it looks like I would sit there on the bench in the Scottish League and there’s no point in that.
“If you have a 50-50 chance to play, you try it. However, there is no chance to play there because the manager likes someone else and that is the point you must consider.”
HonestKello claims that an ideal scenario would see him drafted back into the fold at Hearts, with it having never been his intention to isolate himself and fuel speculation regarding his commitment to the cause.
He added: “I’ve tried to be honest and tried to fight for the club in every game. But they’re trying to pull me down all the time. I’m reading in the papers that I am not committed to the club. I’m here to tell you that is nonsense. I was not offered a new contract.
“I want to play for Hearts. They said they don’t want me next season because they have a money problem and are going with youngsters. We have two young keepers and I’ve been told I don’t figure in the future.
“It looks like I don’t want to be here but if I have a chance to play I will. Why? Because this is the club that gave me a chance to improve and get into my national team.”
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The inhabitants of Planet Fitba could be forgiven for having an extremely low opinion of my trade. However, that would be like thinking that you knew everything you needed to know about Celtic strikers because you had been Wayne Biggins in the hoops. I spent most of the month of January marking essays from students [...]
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KELVIN Wilson was delighted to return to the starting XI on Saturday for the Scottish Cup tie against Inverness Caley Thistle. And the defender put in an impressive performance as the Hoops booked their place in the last eight of the tournament where they will face Dundee United, conquerers of Rangers.
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Wilson knows that competition for places in Neil Lennon’s squad is fierce, but it’s something he relishes.
Kelvin Wilson ready and eager for action
Kelvin Wilson ready and eager for action
By: Laura Brannan on 08 Feb, 2012 09:06
KELVIN Wilson was delighted to return to the starting XI on Saturday for the Scottish Cup tie against Inverness Caley Thistle. And the defender put in an impressive performance as the Hoops booked their place in the last eight of the tournament where they will face Dundee United, conquerers of Rangers. Wilson knows that competition for places in Neil Lennon's squad is fierce, but it's something he relishes. And, if called upon tonight (Wednesday), he's looking forward to his first taste of action at Tyencastle. ?Obviously I want to stay in the team now but it's down to the gaffer when I will play again and it's going to be hard considering so many are back from injury now,? Wilson told this week's Celtic View. ?It's a good thing for the gaffer because he has so many players, but it is hard work for us because we have so many to compete with. ?We thrive on it, though. We're never negative to each other. We won't put anyone down as we are supportive of each other when someone does well and when they are going out to play you wish them all the best. ?Everyone wants to play and everyone wants the same as you so you hold no grudges. ?I'm going to continue to work hard and I hopefully I will be called upon again soon. If and when that happens I will continue to do my best to try and fight for my place in the team.? Celtic are aiming for their 13th consecutive league win when they take on Hearts tonight, but given that the Edinburgh side?were the last team to beat the Hoops in the SPL ? a 2-0 win at Tynecastle back in October ? Neil Lennon's squad know it's going to be a tough test. Victory will restore the four-point lead at the top of the table, and everyone in the squad is focused on that task. Wilson has yet to face Hearts this season due to his injury, but knows all about the heated atmosphere inside the venue, and hopes to experience it for himself. Three days later he will then welcome Caley Thistle to Celtic Park for the second meeting between the sides in a week. He said: ?I didn't play in the games against Hearts or Inverness earlier in the season because I was injured at the time but they will be very tough teams to face. ?Hearts are always up there challenging in or around the top three so they never make it easy for you at their own place. ?We saw last Saturday that Inverness are not an easy side either and I doubt they will come to Glasgow just to sit back. They will want to get something out of the game too.?
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CELTIC boss Neil Lennon last night warned his players not to get caught up in the notion the SPL title is already in the bag.
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Celtic fans might think title race is over but players must ignore growing euphoria, says Neil Lennon
Feb 8 2012 by Keith Jackson, Daily Record
Celtic manager Neil Lennon at training
CELTIC boss Neil Lennon last night warned his players not to get caught up in the notion the SPL title is already in the bag.
And he urged his table-topping side to show ravaged rivals Rangers no mercy from here on in.
Lennon leads his rampant team to Tynecastle tonight looking to rack up a 16th straight domestic win and restore a four-point lead at the top as they close in on a possible clean sweep.
But the Parkhead manager is concerned that a feeling of growing euphoria among the supporters, evident during Celtic's Scottish Cup win at Inverness on Saturday, might yet distract his players from finishing the job.
A large contingent of fans believe the title race is all but over with Rangers crippled by a drastic slump in form and battling against a backdrop of financial crisis.
But he is determined not to allow his players to take their foot off the gas and was irked yesterday after full-back Adam Matthews grabbed headlines by boasting that Celtic could remain undefeated until the end of the season.
Lennon said: ?We cannot affect or take in what is going on across the city. People will be coming up to the players, slapping them on the back, thinking the league is over and all that sort of rubbish. But we have to keep everything in house and concentrate on what we are doing game by game.
?We are only a point ahead with a game in hand. That can change quickly. Adam created some
headlines which I wasn't happy about. Looking at his quotes they weren't too bad but, even if we do go unbeaten in the league, there is no title guarantee.?It could be seven wins, seven draws and that might not be enough.?
Some supporters were spotted forming a conga in Saturday's Highland win while chanting gleefully: ?We'll be having a party when Rangers die!?
But Lennon said: ?The players are not fans. Some of them have an affiliation with the club but the main thing is they are professional footballers and at the minute they have to play hard, professional, tough football.
?While this run goes on there will be a team lurking out there that wants to take our scalp. A lot of outsiders will want us to fall.
?The boys should be self-motivated because a few of them will remember the hangover from last year and they should want to go one better.
?It's the same with the League Cup. And they will want to have a go at the Scottish Cup again.?
Celtic will face Dundee United at Tannadice in the quarter-finals and it's now three years since they landed a home Scottish Cup tie.
Lennon said: ?Another f*****g away draw! I'm delighted with that. I checked the odds of that happening today ? it was 1024-1. I wish I had put a tenner on it a couple of years ago.
?But if we are going to do it we will have to do it the hard way.?
Lennon believes his players are now displaying the kind of mental toughness needed to turn them into champions.
But he warned: ?You are only one adverse result away from people saying they are not mentally strong enough.
?Over the last couple of years the players have shown they can cope with the big games and the pressure.?
Lennon expects Hearts to offer up their usual fierce resistance tonight.
Asked if he believed the Tynecastle side raise their game against Celtic, he said: ?Oh yeah, no doubt about it. They played well at Celtic Park when we beat them 1-0. It was a tough game and since then they have gone on a good run. So they are capable of doing damage.?
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Rangers consider bringing 35-year-old striker Daniel Cousin back to Ibrox...
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SCOTT BROWN picked up the SPL player of the month award for January yesterday.. now the Celtic skipper has his sights set firmly on landing a league winners' medal.
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Celtic skipper Scott Brown: Coming back from injury was hard but monthly award shows I’m on right road
Feb 8 2012 By David McCarthy
Scott Brown seals the win for Celtic at Inverness with a penalty
SCOTT BROWN says he has matured. Then Neil Lennon tells you his skipper is running about at training with his shirt off in sub-zero temperatures.
Either way, the Celtic midfielder is playing out of his skin and has become the player Lennon always knew he would be.
Brown was named Clydesdale Bank Player of the Month yesterday for a series of storming displays in January that helped Celtic emerge as red-hot favourites for the Treble.
The Parkhead captain leads his men into battle again at Tynecastle tonight as Lennon's side bid to go four points clear of embattled Rangers.
But despite the Celtic support already celebrating a title victory, due to the state of their rivals, Brown isn't taking anything for granted.
Maybe, then, he HAS matured.
?Yes I have,? he said. ?It comes to everybody. When you get to 25 or 26 you know you're not going to be able to run about forever like I used to do at Hibs and when I came to Celtic.
?We know what Rangers can do on any day. They are still a good team.
?They will fight all the way to the last game of the season because the SPL is the only competition they are in now. They will definitely go for it.?
But Brown understands why a support that was in the doldrums in early November as their team trailed by 15 points with two games in hand is now delirious at the prospect of winning the championship.
He added: ?It's hard for the fans. Because we haven't won the title for so long they expect us to do it.
?But we have to go out every week and show them we're good enough to win that trophy.
?Last year definitely hurt. That's why we are taking nothing for granted and working one game at a time.
?There have been a few bad results in this club's history in the time I've been here. We've had Ross County and the loss at Inverness last season. We just want to set that right now.?
Brown is doing just that and leading by example. If a by-product of that is finally getting recognition from his detractors ? and there have been plenty ? then the midfielder is happy enough to take the praise.
He believes being fully fit after three ankle operations and almost two years of pain is the reason behind his resurgence.
Brown said: ?Everyone in their career has a downturn. Coming back from ankle injury after ankle injury was quite hard.
?When I came back at first it was kind of niggly but now that I've got the screw in, it has solidified everything. It feels brilliant now.
?The last time I was fully fit was probably when I first signed and when I won Player of the Year for Celtic. I was injury-free for the whole season. I was sharper, got a good run of games and felt fit.
?But after that, it was always there. No matter what happened I couldn't get rid of it.
?I'm not making excuses. I still played. I tried to give everything I had ? I just wasn't as sharp as I should have been. I should maybe have had a little more rest but I was eager to come back.
?I went for the op and it was still there but since I got the screw in it everything has been ideal ? touch wood. I just enjoy playing for the club. I enjoy the fans, my team-mates and the manager. It's a great place to be and I don't think I'd want to be anywhere else.?
Which is music to Lennon's ears. The Celtic manager knows there is a childlike quality to Brown's eagerness to get stuck into everything he does and Lennon loves it. He also knows there are few players he would rather have in the trenches with him.
Lennon said: ?Scott is a tough boy. He's not dirty ? he doesn't go around elbowing people.
?Sometimes Scott has a few verbals but he is a hardy boy. You see him out in the snow with his top and T-shirt off, running about. He doesn't feel a thing.
?He's like one of those boxers in terms of durability. It doesn't matter how many hits they take they keep coming back at you.
?He's playing with maturity and game intelligence. He has developed himself through his experience.?
Lennon knows his captain hasn't always been a fans' favourite but that has never bothered him. After all, he had his own critics as a player.
The Celtic boss added: ?You never please everybody all the time. Even in the team I played in people would have had their objections to myself, Thommo, Johan, Bobo Balde or Chris Sutton.
Probably the only exception would have been Henrik.?But Scott is making people think again. In the interim period, when I took over from Tony Mowbray, he was absolutely fantastic. And you don't lose that.
?He had injury problems with the ankle but he's pain free now and you don't lose what you have. He's a fantastic athlete as well.
?He helps boys like Victor Wanyama by talking them through games. He's experienced. He has the respect of the dressing room and if you ask the majority of the players in there who they think the best trainer is, he sets a good example that way.
?And Scott sets a good example off the park as well.?
Brown is first pick in a midfield that gives Lennon a headache every week. One he is delighted to have.
He said: ?Midfield is one of the departments where we have been really strong with guys like Ki and Joe Ledley. Wanyama has also been a huge plus for us this year. Then you have Brownie himself and we even have Efrain Juarez back as an extra body now Beram Kayal is out.
?The competition is great and the quality is there for all to see.?
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Lennon says Hearts game is important but the chance to extend the SPL lead can't be passed up.
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You’re not signed in Sign in Sign upNeil Lennon: Celtic can handle title pressure
Lennon says Hearts game is important but the chance to extend the SPL lead can't be passed up.
08 February 2012 07:54 GMT
296691Celtic manager Neil Lennon
Celtic manager Neil Lennon has said that his team can pile pressure on others by picking up three points in their match against Hearts at Tynecastle. The match is Celtic's “game in hand” over title rivals Rangers and a win would open up a gap of four points at the top of the Scottish Premier League table. Hearts were the last side to beat Celtic in the league, back in October before an unbeaten run for Lennon's side saw them make up ground and leapfrog Rangers into top spot. The manager said there was no added significance because of the previous result but that the match had it's own reasons for being a big step in the title race. “I don’t think it gives it any more importance,? Lennon said. “It’s the most important game of the season because it’s the next one. “We have a chance to extend our lead at the top of the table and just try to put pressure on everybody else. “I think we are in a different place to where we were then. “Confidence is good. The team is playing very well and they are taking a lot of pride in what they are doing at the moment.” While keen to see his team's results ask questions of other sides, Lennon was confident that his players would be able to handle the expectation surrounding them as they aim for three domestic trophies this season. “Pressure is pressure,? he said. ?These guys have had the expectation levels for the last few seasons and they are coping very well.
“Whether this brings extra pressure or not, I don’t know. But I’m sure it’s pressure they can cope with.”Ads by Google
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AFTER back-to-back cup ties, the players return to league business tomorrow night and following his outstanding performance on Saturday, one player is particularly looking forward to the trip to Tynecastle.
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Georgios Samaras was one of the key players in the weekend’s win over Caley Thistle, scoring with a screamer from the edge of the penalty box and earning praise from his manager.
But the big striker is not one for dwelling on the victories and as he looked ahead to tomorrow’s match in an exclusive interview on tonight’s Huddle Online, he explained why he has been limbering up for one of the toughest games of the season.
Tuesday on Celtic TV: Sami answers your Twitter questions
Tuesday on Celtic TV: Sami answers your Twitter questions
By: Gregor Kyle on 07 Feb, 2012 17:07
AFTER back-to-back cup ties, the players return to league business tomorrow night and following his outstanding performance on Saturday, one player is particularly looking forward to the trip to Tynecastle. Georgios Samaras was one of the key players in the weekend's win over Caley Thistle, scoring with a screamer from the edge of the penalty box and earning praise from his manager. But the big striker is not one for dwelling on the victories and as he looked ahead to tomorrow's match in an exclusive interview on tonight's Huddle Online, he explained why he has been limbering up for one of the toughest games of the season. ?We will have to be at our best,? said Samaras in tonight's interview on Celtic TV. ?Away games are always difficult, but games against Hearts are very tough. This might not be a night when we can play great football, but there are games like that in the SPL. ?You have to be ready for a battle and it will be physical. But I think we have learned an important lesson this season and we will be ready, physically and mentally, to go and win this game.? In tonight's interview, Sami also answers some of the questions that we have received from Celtic TV viewers through Celtic TV presenter, Gregor Kyle's Twitter feed: @gkOnTheHuddle As you'd expect, there were a few interesting questions, one coming from Daniel McKeown, who asked, on behalf of his girlfriend, why he doesn't pull his hair back in matches. ?I just don't like it and ponytails are for girls!? said Sami with a laugh. ?That's my answer and I hope your girlfriend is going to stop asking you now!? He was also typically honest when asked why he doesn't get his hair cut: ?I am ugly now, but I know I am going to be a lot uglier with short hair! That's my style and it will always be like that ? until my hair falls out!?
You can hear Sami's other answers and get all the news ahead of the Hearts game on our pre-match Huddle Online. Login to www.celticfc.tv to find out how to subscribe.Short Story
CELTIC’S last league defeat came back at the beginning of October when they lost 2-0 away to Hearts, but now Neil Lennon’s side return to Tynecastle tomorrow (Wednesday), looking for a 13th consecutive league win, having produced an impressive run of form.
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And as the Celtic manager explained: “It’s the most important game of the season because it’s the next one. ”
There is no extra significance attached to the fixture because of the previous defeat, though that will serve as a warning – not that any is needed – that it will be an extremely tough fixture against Hearts.
Manager: Hearts game is now our most important one
Manager: Hearts game is now our most important one
By: Paul Cuddihy on 08 Feb, 2012 07:51
CELTIC'S last league defeat came back at the beginning of October when they lost 2-0 away to Hearts, but now Neil Lennon's side return to Tynecastle tomorrow (Wednesday), looking for a 13th consecutive league win, having produced an impressive run of form. And as the Celtic manager explained: ?It's the most important game of the season because it's the next one.? There is no extra significance attached to the fixture because of the previous defeat, though that will serve as a warning ? not that any is needed ? that it will be an extremely tough fixture against Hearts. ?I didn't think we played too badly at Tynecastle before,? said the Celtic boss, ?and for the first hour we were in the ascendancy, but we missed good chances and it came back to bite us. ?Obviously, we lost our discipline a little bit which, again, has not been a criticism of the team at all this season, and we got beat. We were caught on the counter-attack for the second goal. ?So we don't want a repeat of that. I think we're in a different place now to where we were then. Confidence is good, the team's playing very well at the minute, and the players are taking a lot of pride in what they're doing. ?We have a chance to extend our lead at the top of the table and put the pressure on everybody else.? Reports in several newspapers today suggested that Adam Matthews was claiming that Celtic were invincible and would remain unbeaten for the rest of the season. The manager, with years of experience of how the Scottish media can sometimes operate, knows that the headlines don't always match what is said. ?There's still a long way to go,? he said. ?People are looking at the headlines today, which were very naughty in regards to what Adam actually did say. I'm not happy about that. ?Adam didn't say anything wrong, he didn't say anything controversial and he didn't say anything that the headlines portrayed him as saying. ?There is a possibility that we could go unbeaten in the league but it doesn't guarantee we'll win it ? we could have seven wins and seven draws and that might not be enough in the next 14 games. ?So we're not looking too far ahead. I know some of the tabloids are trying to stir a little of trouble up for the players, but I think the players are handling themselves very well.? While Mikael Lustig is still making his way back to fitness, one of Celtic's other new January signings, Polish striker Pawel Brozek is in contention for the Hearts game. ?It's a healthy squad, we've got good depth and the players are champing at the bit to play,? said the manager. ?The players who're coming in are maintaining that vein or form or improving it. I'm delighted and I'd rather be in this position than any other position. ?There's a lot of football left and the players know that, when they're picked, they are the most important players to me. And everyone has that sense of significance to the squad, whether they play or not. I was delighted with the players who came in on Saturday, and I was delighted with the substitutes who came on as well. ?It's not done and dusted and it's certainly not the attitude we're adopting here. Rangers are the champions and they're the champions for a reason, and we have to take on all the challenges that come our way, and overcome them the best we can. ?
“So there is no room for complacency here and anyone showing that won't be playing.?Short Story
Preview followed by live coverage of Wednesday's game between Hearts and Celtic in the Scottish Premier League.
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Hearts v Celtic
Clydesdale Bank Scottish Premier League
- Venue: Tynecastle
- Date: Wednesday, 8 February
- Kick-off: 1945 GMT
Coverage: BBC Radio Scotland & BBC Sport website
Hearts midfielder Ian Black is suspended, while goalkeeper Marian Kello is being overlooked after his refusal to accept a transfer.
Winger David Templeton misses out with a groin injury but left-back Danny Grainger is close to a return.
Striker Pawel Brozek could make his Celtic debut, having joined on loan for the rest of the season.
Mikael Lustig remains on the sidelines with a hip injury and there is no place for fellow new signing Rabiu Ibrahim.
Hearts manager Paolo Sergio: “Celtic have lots of good things. They are a strong team with very good technical ability, fast players. They have all they need to fight for their goals.
“We should know and recognise their capacity and our capacity too. In 10 games we have the chance to beat Celtic two or three times. I hope it is going to be one of those times.
“We are playing against a strong team. They are improving all season and we have to be at our best level to have a good result.
“We have to be much better than we were in the last game at home. Small things make all the difference in the end.”
Celtic manager Neil Lennon: “It’s the most important game of the season because it’s the next one.
“We have a chance to extend our lead at the top of the table and try and put pressure on everybody else.
“The team is playing very well at the moment and they take a lot of pride from the way they’re playing.
“They’ve found a level of consistency within the team and a real belief about themselves. There’s still a long way to go.
“We’re not looking too far ahead and I know the tabloids are trying to stir a bit of trouble up for the players, but I think the players are handling themselves well.”
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Clydesdale Bank Under-19s League
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Lennoxtown Training Centre, Glasgow
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
CELTIC. . .
Six of the best for rampant youths
Six of the best for rampant youths
By: Mark Henderson on 07 Feb, 2012 15:39
Clydesdale Bank Under-19s League Lennoxtown Training Centre, Glasgow Tuesday, February 7, 2012 ? CELTIC…6 (Atajic 30, Watt 31, Fisher 45, Jones 55, 89, 90) ? INVERNESS CALEY THISTLE…1 ? DEFENDER Curtis Jones was the unlikely hat-trick hero as Celtic Under-19s thumped Inverness Caley Thistle 6-1 at Lennoxtown to go second in the league. ? The rampant youths had raced into a three-goal lead at the break thanks to strikes from Bahrudin Atajic, Tony Watt and Darnel Fisher. ? Although the visitors reduced the deficit four minutes after the interval, Jones swiftly restored the three-goal advantage in the 55th minute with an accurate header. ? And in the dying minutes, he volleyed home from the edge of the area for his second, before calmly finishing off a free-kick in the final minute to claim a rare three-goal haul. ? The resounding result saw the young Hoops leapfrog Hibs into second spot in the table, having played two games less than current pacesetters, Hearts. ? And only the heroics of the Inverness goalkeeper prevented the the winning margin from being even greater. ? The young Celts had already threatened the opposition goal on several occasions before Atajic made the breakthrough on the half hour mark. The striker controlled Patrik Twardzik's wonderful left-wing cross and emphatically finished into the far corner. From then on it was one-way traffic. ? Just 60 seconds later, they doubled their advantage. A determined Fisher drove towards the byline and cut the ball back for Watt who duly converted. ? The youths passed up further oppotunities to extend their lead, before the impressive Fisher made it three-nil on the stroke of half-time. Collecting a return pass from Atajic, he surged into the box and fired beyond the keeper. ? The interval brought some respite for the visitors and they managed to pull a goal back minutes after the restart when a striker took advantage of a blocked clearance and rifled a shot into the far corner. ? That sparked an instant response from the hosts. Atajic lobbed a shot onto the bar, before Jones grabbed his first, heading home from an acute angle. ? There was no let-up as the fluent and purposeful approach of the the home side continued to cause havoc in the visitors? rearguard. ? Callum McGregor rattled the bar, Jones had a shot saved, while Watt, John Herron and Twardzik also came close as the Inverness goal led a charmed life. ? However, in the closing minutes, Jones made the scoreline a fairer reflection on the balance of play. ? Forward for a free-kick, the centre-half showed terrific technique to volley in off the post from the edge of the box. ? Twardzik was then denied in quick succession by the Highlanders? shot-stopper, before Jones was in the right place to steer home from a free-kick. ? The in-form young Celts will now turn their attentions to a challenging trip to Aberdeen in the SFA Youth Cup at the weekend as they aim to to mount a successful defence of the trophy for a third successive season.? ? CELTIC (4-4-2) Thomson; Fisher, Jones, Fraser, Chalmers; Herron, Irvine, McGregor, P. Twardzik; Atajic (Lindsay 75), Watt (Kirwan 87) Not Used: Fasan, Findlay, Yaqub .?
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Neil Lennon has said that his new signing could make his first appearance at Tynecastle.
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You’re not signed in Sign in Sign upPawel Brozek could make Celtic debut against Hearts
Neil Lennon has said that his new signing could make his first appearance at Tynecastle.
07 February 2012 14:59 GMT
296649Pawel Brozek Pic: ? SNS Group
Pawel Brozek could play his first match for Celtic against Hearts in the Scottish Premier League on Wednesday night. The Polish striker, who joined Celtic from Trabzonspor on a loan deal with option to buy, is in manager Neil Lennon's plans for the matchday squad. Lennon revealed that Mikael Lustig is not yet ready for first team action while Rabiu Ibrahim will also miss out. For Hearts, Marian Kello is again missing after being left out of the squad following his decision to reject a deadline day move to Austria Vienna. Paulo Sergio has said that he does not expect the goalkeeper to feature again this season. Ian Black will also miss the match as he serves a one-match suspension. David Templeton is unlikely to feature due to a groin injury while Danny Grainger may return.
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Neil Lennon has warned his Celtic side that the race for the Scottish Premier League is still wide open.
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Lennon - Title race still open
Celtic boss says Rangers still in the hunt
Last Updated: February 7, 2012 3:03pm
Neil Lennon: Title race is wide open
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Neil Lennon has warned his Celtic side that the race for the Scottish Premier League is still wide open.
The Hoops can move four points clear of Rangers if they win their game in hand at Hearts on Wednesday night.
But Lennon does not want his players to get complacent as they head into the run-in.
He said: “You worry about that and you have to temper it very quickly.
“It’s all right outsiders coming up and patting them on the back and saying that it’s all done and dusted.
“Well it’s not and it’s certainly not the attitude we are adopting here.
“Rangers are the champions and they are the champions for a reason.
“We have to take on all the challenges that come our way and overcome them as best we can.
“There will be no room for complacency here and anyone showing that will be not playing.”
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- back to top
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NEIL LENNON insists he'll never allow complacency to become a factor as Celtic look to stretch their lead at the top of the SPL.
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Celtic boss Neil Lennon warns his players: Don’t think the SPL title is done and dusted
Feb 7 2012
neil lennon Image 2
NEIL LENNON insists he’ll never allow complacency to become a factor as Celtic look to stretch their lead at the top of the SPL.
The Hoops can move four points clear of Rangers at the summit tomorrow night if they defeat Hearts in their game in hand.
Rangers’ only hope of silverware this season is the SPL championship.
But, despite troubled times at Ibrox, Lennon is not expecting an easy ride between now and the end of the season and does not want that to be the general view of their own campaign.
He said: “You worry about that and you have to temper it very quickly.
“It’s all right outsiders coming up and patting them on the back and saying that it’s all done and dusted.
“Well it’s not and it’s certainly not the attitude we are adopting here.
“Rangers are the champions and they are the champions for a reason.
“We have to take on all the challenges that come our way and overcome them as best we can.
“There will be no room for complacency here and anyone showing that will be not playing.”
Meanwhile, Scott Brown has been named SPL player of the month for January.
The Hoops skipper said: “It’s great to get but I think it’s the team performance that merits me getting the award.”
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Coatbridge St Patricks Day Festival This years Coatbridge St Pats Festival runs for a few weeks starting from Friday March 2nd and offers something for everyone who are looking...
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The Celtic manager has said that nothing has been achieved yet this season.
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You’re not signed in Sign in Sign upNo place for complacent players in Celtic team, says Neil Lennon
The Celtic manager has said that nothing has been achieved yet this season.
07 February 2012 14:11 GMT
296643Celtic manager Neil Lennon Pic: ? SNS Group
Neil Lennon has said that he won't accept any complacency from his Celtic players as they pursue a domestic treble this season.
The Parkhead club booked their place in the last eight of the Scottish Cup last weekend and with a Hampden date in the League Cup final to look forward to, as well as a point lead with a game in hand in the SPL, are targeting a clean sweep of trophies.
As he prepares to take his side to face Hearts in their outstanding SPL fixture on Wednesday night, Lennon said that his side could not afford to sit back if they were to enjoy success.
?You worry about that and you have to temper it very quickly,? the manager said.
“It’s all right outsiders coming up and patting them on the back and saying that it’s all done and dusted.
“Well it’s not and it’s certainly not the attitude we are adopting here.
“Rangers are the champions and they are the champions for a reason.
“We have to take on all the challenges that come our way and overcome them as best we can.
“There will be no room for complacency here and anyone showing that will be not playing.”
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The Celtic midfielder has won the January award for his form for Neil Lennon's side.
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You’re not signed in Sign in Sign upScott Brown named SPL’s Player of the Month
The Celtic midfielder has won the January award for his form for Neil Lennon’s side.
07 February 2012 12:45 GMT
296588Celtic midfielder Scott Brown. Pic: ?SNS Group
Scott Brown has been named as the Scottish Premier League’s Player of the Month for January.
The Celtic midfielder featured in all three of his side’s league fixtures in January, as the leaders finished the month unbeaten.
Brown was also on target in the 2-0 win over St Mirren on January 21, the first of three goals the 26-year-old has scored this season.
The Scotland international is the second Celtic player to win the award in the 2011/12 season.
Striker Gary Hooper was the league’s top player in November, as Neil Lennon’s side completed a clean sweep of accolades.
Brown has only been named as the SPL’s Player of the Month once previously, winning the award in October 2008.
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Celtic manager Neil Lennon believes the Clydesdale Bank player of the month for January, Scott Brown, has more to offer than he ever did as captain.
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SCOTT Brown has been named Clydesdale Bank SPL Player of the Month for January. The Celtic captain has been in outstanding form as the Hoops have maintained an impressive run of domestic victories across all three competitions.
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The midfielder has now scored three goals in as many games - penalties against Falkirk and Inverness Caley Thistle in the League Cup and Scottish Cup respectively - and a stunning strike in the 2-0 away league win against St Mirren.
Scott Brown is SPL Player of the Month
Scott Brown is SPL Player of the Month
By: Mark Henderson on 07 Feb, 2012 12:45
SCOTT Brown has been named Clydesdale Bank SPL Player of the Month for January. The Celtic captain has been in outstanding form as the Hoops have maintained an impressive run of domestic victories across all three competitions. ? The midfielder has now scored three goals in as many games - penalties against Falkirk and Inverness Caley Thistle in the League Cup and Scottish Cup respectively?- and a stunning strike in the 2-0 away league win against St Mirren. ? Now Brown is looking forward to what will be a tough game against Hearts at Tynecastle on Wednesday night, with Neil Lennon?s side looking for their 13th consecutive SPL win, which would restore a four-point lead at the top of the table. ? The Celtic skipper?told the official Celtic website: ?We've got to look at it one game at a time. We've got Hearts on Wednesday and we will be treating that as the biggest game of our season so far. If we go there and get three points, it's brilliant and keeps the momentum going as well. ?? ?I enjoy playing at Tynecastle,? he added. ?It's a good stadium, especially when it's a full crowd and there are plenty of Celtic fans there as well, which makes it great. ? ?It's going to be hard. It's always a good atmosphere there as the crowd is always on top of you. ?
?It will be a difficult game but we just need to keep going the way we are just now and play as well as we can. Hearts will try to play football as well but hopefully we can come away with the three points.?Short Story
Tuesday February 7 In keeping with the pattern of this seasons Scottish cup run, the SFA had a quick look at who was left in the competition and drew...
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Let's cut to the chase. Where is the Ticketus money? The Daily Record allege that the Whyte Knight tapped Ticketus (or ?Ticket Bus? as big DJ called them on Real Radio) for £24.4 million. During a choreographed interview with Tom English in Scotland on Sunday, the saviour of Rangers challenged the accuracy of the figures [...]
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IT’S a busy week of fixtures for Celtic, with a trip to Tynecastle on Wednesday quickly followed by a home game against Inverness Caley Thistle on Saturday.
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It’s the Hoops’ first game at Celtic Park for almost a month and they will play host to the side they knocked out of the Scottish Cup last weekend.
Scott Brown, whose penalty put Celtic 2-0 ahead in that game, is looking forward to playing at Paradise again.
Captain: Fans are a real inspiration for us
Captain: Fans are a real inspiration for us
By: Newsroom Staff on 07 Feb, 2012 10:42
IT'S a busy week of fixtures for Celtic, with a trip to Tynecastle on Wednesday quickly followed by a home game against Inverness Caley Thistle on Saturday. It's the Hoops' first game at Celtic Park for almost a month and they will play host to the side they knocked out of the Scottish Cup last weekend. Scott Brown, whose penalty put Celtic 2-0 ahead in that game, is looking forward to playing at Paradise again. ?Inverness will be trying to get the three points and dent our title hopes,? he said. ?We did it a few times last season, playing clubs twice in the same week, so we're used to it. ?You get to know their game-plan and they get to know your game-plan as well, but I think we'll still have a few more things in the locker.? And the skipper believes that the tremendous backing of the Celtic fans, again in evidence in the Highlands last Saturday, has been another factor in keeping the players focused on their ultimate goal. ?I thought our fans were first-class,? he said, ?and a lot of it is for the fans as well as we owe them for the last couple of seasons and we need to prove that we are the best team in Scotland.?
Tickets for the match between Celtic and Inverness Caley Thistle this Saturday, February 11 (KO: 3pm) are now on sale, priced from £26 adults and from £17 concessions.
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Tickets can be purchased ONLINE, by calling 0871 226 1888* or by visiting the Celtic Ticket Office. ? Tickets are also available in the following Celtic retail outlets: Argyle Street, Sauchiehall Street, Clydebank, Coatbridge, East Kilbride.
Alternatively, why not try Ticketfast, our Print at Home Facility??Simply select Ticketfast at the checkout and your tickets will be sent to you by email!?Avoid the queues and use Ticketfast today!
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THIS year´s Celtic Player of the Year event is already a sell-out, with supporters snapping up tickets for the special occasion in record time.
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The ceremony, on Sunday, April 29 at the Thistle Hotel, Glasgow, is the 10th anniversary of the Celtic Player of the Year Awards, and, as always, there are sure to be a number of players in the running for the various awards.
Last year it was Emilio Izaguirre who scooped the prestigious Player of the Year Award.
Player of the Year event is a sell-out
Player of the Year event is a sell-out
By: Newsroom Staff on 07 Feb, 2012 09:52
THIS year?s Celtic Player of the Year event is already a sell-out, with supporters snapping up tickets for the special occasion in record time. ? The ceremony, on Sunday, April 29 at the Thistle Hotel, Glasgow, is the 10th anniversary of the Celtic Player of the Year Awards, and, as always, there are sure to be a number of players in the running for the various awards. Last year it was Emilio Izaguirre who scooped the prestigious Player of the Year Award. Supporters?will be able to?vote for?a number of categories, including?the Player of the Year Award, sponsored by McEwan Fraser Legal,?and the Goal of the Season Award, sponsored by Tennent?s. Voting will open next month and details to follow on the official Celtic website. ? One award sure to go right to the wire will be the Top Goalscorer of the Year, sponsored by Ladbrokes, with Anthony Stokes and Gary Hooper battling it out for the honour. ? And at this glittering Celtic event on April 29, one of the highlights is always the Special Recognition Award, sponsored by Scottish Leader, which will honour a special Celt. The recipient of this award is only revealed on the night.
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Pawel Brozek is hoping he can impress enough in his loan deal at Celtic to secure a permanent move to Parkhead.
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Brozek wants permanent move
Pole wants to stay at Parkhead after loan move ends
Last Updated: February 7, 2012 9:30am
Pawl Brozek: Polish striker wants permanent move to Celtic
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Pawel Brozek is hoping he can impress enough in his loan deal at Celtic to secure a permanent move to Parkhead.
The Polish striker completed a loan move from Trabzonspor to the SPL side at the end of the January transfer window, and is determined to make an impact.
The 28-year-old has found playing time limited in Turkey and is hoping to justify a potential £650,000 fee if Celtic want to make the deal permanent.
He told the Daily Record: “I am currently only on loan to Celtic and don’t know what will happen after these few months.
“Celtic have a right of first refusal but no one can guarantee me that I will benefit from it.
“Everything depends on me and I just have to play at a level that makes Celtic want to take me out of Trabzonspor.”
Brozek has been training with the squad over the last week to regain full fitness and admits Celtic are working him hard.
He added: “I know the coach was an ardent proponent in bringing me to Celtic Park.
“I had a long conversation with him before my first training session and he made a positive impression on me.
“He told me he really counts on me but he is also looking for hard work on my part. And I must admit in the first session he meant those words.”
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Celtic midfielder Beram Kayal is determined to return to action before the end of the season and defy the medics.
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Kayal targets shock return
Midfielder hopes to return before end of the season
By Pete O’Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. ? Last Updated: February 7, 2012 9:18am
Beram Kayal: Laid low as he recovers from ankle surgery
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Celtic midfielder Beram Kayal is determined to return to action before the end of the season and defy the medics.
Kayal was expected to miss the rest of the campaign after being forced to undergo ankle surgery last month following a tackle by Rangers’ Lee McCulloch in the Old Firm game at Celtic Park.
Israel international Kayal is refusing to give up hope of making a shock comeback before the end of the season.
“I had surgery three weeks ago on my ankle and the Celtic doctor told me to rest for four months so I came home to visit family and friends,” Kayal told the Daily Record.
Improving“More than anything, I hope Celtic keep their place at the top of the SPL and we win the championship.
“I am hoping to celebrate winning the title with the players and am looking to come back and end the season strongly.
“My situation is improving. I am starting my rehabilitation and there is a chance I will come back earlier than planned.
“I already miss football but the main thing is that I come back 100 per cent.”
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Our top men in the know have surpassed themselves by hacking into a mythical email server at The Mythical Scotsman and intercepting a mythical email that shows the original transcript...
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BERAM KAYAL last night vowed to defy the medics and return to join Celtic’s fight for silverware.
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Crocked Celtic ace Beram Kayal vows to return in time to help Bhoys over the finish line in title race
Feb 7 2012 by Craig Swan
BERAM KAYAL last night vowed to defy the medics and return to join Celtic's fight for silverware.
The Israeli midfielder was expected to be out for the rest of the season after a crunching clash with Rangers' Lee McCulloch saw him come off second best in the last Old Firm encounter at the end of December.
Kayal later needed ankle surgery and Celtic stated the engine-room dynamo would be out for at least four months.
Boss Neil Lennon wrote the 23-year-old off for the remainder of the campaign on the advice of the club's medical staff.
However, Kayal is refusing to give up hope of a comeback before the end of the campaign with his rehabilitation now under way in his native Israel.
He said: ?I had surgery three weeks ago on my ankle and the Celtic doctor told me to rest for four months so I came home to visit family and friends.
?More than anything, I hope Celtic keep their place at the top of the SPL and we win the championship.
?I am hoping to celebrate winning the title with the players and am looking to come back and end the season strongly.
?My situation is improving. I am starting my rehabilitation and there is a chance I will come back earlier than planned.
?I already miss football but the main thing is that I come back 100 per cent.?
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Adam Matthews says Celtic were always expected to win the Scottish Cup and that Rangers' exit adds no extra pressure.
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You’re not signed in Sign in Sign upCeltic defender: Expectation to win cup was always there
Adam Matthews says Celtic were always expected to win the Scottish Cup and that Rangers’ exit adds no extra pressure.
07 February 2012 07:59 GMT
296579Celtic defender Adam Matthews. Pic: ?SNS Group
Adam Matthews says Rangers' exit from this season's Scottish Cup does not put any more pressure on his Celtic side to succeed in the competition.
The Welsh defender was present at Monday's sixth round draw, which saw his team paired with the Ibrox club's conquerors Dundee United in the last eight.
Celtic are now the bookmakers' favourite to retain their trophy at Hampden in May.
Matthews though says the expectation to succeed in all competitions was already loaded on the team and insists Rangers' exit has no bearing on their ambitions.
“When you are at a club like Celtic, there are expectations anyway,” he said. “It doesn’t matter if Rangers are in or out. The pressure is still there.
“It was there at the start of the cup and it’s still there now.
“The players enjoy playing with that pressure and will be looking forward to the game.”
The draw handed Celtic yet another away tie in the competition, with Neil Lennon's side now having not been handed a home game since a win over Queen's Park in 2009.
“The players are used to it now,” Matthews said of the draw. “We’ve just got to go to Dundee and do the job.
“We would have liked a home draw because we’ve got great fans and I think we play best at home.
“But we have shown this season that we can go away to places and get key results and I’m sure we can do it again.”
IN DETAIL
- Holders Celtic go to Dundee United in Scottish Cup quarter final
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PAWEL BROZEK reckons he’s ready for a Celtic debut against Hearts after a dose of training-ground torture from workaholic gafferNeil Lennon.
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Celtic new boy Pawel Brozek: I’m fit for debut against Hearts after Neil Lennon slog
Feb 7 2012 Exclusive by Craig Swan
pawel brozek celtic Image 2
PAWEL BROZEK reckons he's ready for a Celtic debut against Hearts after a dose of training-ground torture from workaholic gaffer Neil Lennon.
The Polish striker is champing at the bit after completing his loan signing from Trabzonspor exactly a week ago.
Brozek arrived at Parkhead having suffered a lack of match action with the Turkish outfit and he's desperate to make an instant mark in the SPL.
The Pole is working hard to regain peak fitness and admits Lennon has not given him any settling in time.
Brozek said: ?I know the coach was an ardent proponent in bringing me to Celtic Park. I had a long conversation with him before my first training session and he made a positive impression on me.
?He told me he really counts on me but he is also looking for hard work on my part. And I must admit in the first session he meant those words.
?The coach has a sense of humour because when I walked off the field exhausted after the first workout, he came to me with a smile and said: ?Welcome to Scotland.?
Brozek's desperation for action at Tynecastle tomorrow is understandable after spending most of this season kicking his heels on the bench in Turkey.
However, with the weapons in Lennon's armoury, the Pole may have to wait.
At Inverness last weekend, the Celtic manager had the luxury of leaving top scorer Anthony Stokes out of the starting line-up for the cup game.
Preferred option Georgios Samaras proved that decision spot-on with aspectacular opening goal as the team won 2-0 to extend their domestic winning run to 15 matches.
Brozek knows barriers such as Stokes, Samaras and the influential Gary Hooper stand in his path to the first team but remains determined to make an impact on the Celtic support after his idle spell in Turkey.
He said: ?I could not be happy with the number of matches I played over there but it was not a wasted time for me. I trained and played with some better footballers than me, so today I'm definitely a better player than when I left Poland.
?But I wanted to play more and that is why I wanted to change my club.
?I have joined one of the best-known clubs in Europe and you can feel the size of Celtic with every step.
?However, that also means I will not get anything for nothing here.
?There are two or three great strikers already at Celtic who can score goals, so I've got a hard task.
?But after the year I spent in Trabzon, I have huge hunger to play and I will do everything to convince the coach.?
Brozek is still finding his feet in Glasgow but admits he's savouring the trip to Lennoxtown every morning. With team-mate and compatriot Lukasz Zaluska helping him find a house to bring his family to Scotland, the striker feels he's adapting quickly.
Brozek said: ?The stadium is beautiful. It can accommodate 60,000 people and I know there is a hot atmosphere during matches but the training centre also inspires respect.
?We have four pitches, including one with artificial turf, and all the background areas for fitness and health. There is everything you need.
?For now I am alone as I am still looking for a house and I want to find something where I feel good with my wife and child.
?I knew Luke from before and he's really helped me and is involved for example in the search for housing.
?It's funny because since I signed the sun has literally been shining for me. It's warmer than it is now back in Krakow where the frosts are prevailing.
?I heard the rumours about the British weather being something terrible but that must be regarded as exaggerated. It's been so warm here that I have already managed some Glasgow sightseeing.
?The city is much nicer than Trabzon. Now I know in Scotland I will live better than in Turkey. My problem there was not with cultural differences but the sheer monotony of life.
?Most of the time was spent at training or at home and each day seemed justthe same. Of course I had my family but the monotony concerned them as much as me.
?But I never lacked motivation for my training because, being serious, if someone signs you on a contract and pays you money, you do your duties and I did so 100 per cent.?
Nevertheless, Brozek knows he cannot totally close the Turkish chapter in his career as his deal at Celtic for the time being is just a loan.
The Pole will return to Trabzon unless he convinces Lennon he is worthy of a permanent stay and the £650,000 which would have to be paid.
But Brozek knows the situation and is determined to make his opportunity count. He said: ?I am currently only on loan to Celtic and don't knowwhat will happen after these few months.
?Celtic have a right of first refusal but no one can guarantee me that I will benefit from it.
?Everything depends on me and I just have to play at a level that makes Celtic want to take me out of Trabzonspor.?
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ADAM MATTHEWS last night predicted Celtic’s invincibles can extend their long unbeaten run until the end of the season.
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Celtic star Adam Matthews: Bullish Bhoys can go rest of the season unbeaten
Feb 7 2012 By Colin Duncan
Adam Matthews
ADAM MATTHEWS last night predicted Celtic's invincibles can extend their long unbeaten run until the end of the season.
Neil Lennon's men have won 15 domestic matches on the bounce and are firmly on course to complete the Treble.
Celtic have turned a 15-point SPL deficit into a one-point advantage over Rangers since their last defeat on Scottish soil against Hearts at the start of October.
But, as they gear up for a return to Tynecastle tomorrow evening Matthews insists the possibility of another reverse has not even crossed the players' minds.
Asked if he thought Celtic are capable of going through the campaign without another loss the Welshman said: ?I think yes, definitely.
?We're just taking it one game at a time but we're full of confidence and believe we can keep it going as long as possible.
?We're under pressure all the time anyway and Rangers are still a dangerous team who will be there at the end of the season.
?We just have to focus on our own job and keep the run going. We have two or three players for every position and that gives us confidence before we go on the pitch. The gaffer and the coaching staff also give us belief.?
Celtic lost 2-0 when they last faced Hearts in the capital in the autumn.
But Matthews said: ?I think we've improved a lot since then. We had a few new players at the start of the season but everybody has now gelled and we have strength in every area of the pitch.
?Maybe it helped to go through that at the start of the season. It has made us closer.
?The hardest time in football is when you're losing and we have stuck together really well through that.
?It was tough when we were going through a bad patch but we knew with the players in our squad we could claw it back.
?Maybe we didn't think we could do it as quickly but we were always fairly confident we would do it by the end of the season.
?You can see by our performances now that we are all together.?
Celtic were handed the toughest assignment possible when yesterday's Scottish Cup quarter-final draw paired them with Dundee United, who reached the last eight by winning 2-0 against Rangers at Ibrox.
It is now over three years since Celtic were drawn at home in the nation's premier cup competition but Matthews said: ?I think the players are used to it now and we're confident we can go to Dundee and do a job. We have the players to progress.
?It's going to be tough but we go into it full of confidence and on the back of winning 15 games on the bounce.
?Dundee United are a good team and they are coming off the back of a good win but we are on a good run that we want to keep going.
?We don't fear anyone at the moment as we are the form team. Hopefully we can keep it going against United, although our next goal is to beat Hearts.?
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Celtic defender Adam Matthews says the Scottish Cup holders face a stern test against Dundee United in the last eight.
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Craig Whyte Limerick Contest In a change from our usual Caption contest, we thought we would appeal for Limericks in tribute to Mr Financial Genius and all round teller of full...
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Celtic's Adam Matthews insists they are not under more pressure to win the Scottish Cup now that Rangers are out.
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Matthews plays down pressure
Wales international looking forward to success in league cup
Last Updated: February 6, 2012 7:10pm
Adam Matthews:
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Celtic defender Adam Matthews insists they are not under more pressure to win the Scottish Cup now that Rangers are out.
Gers were absent from the quarter-final draw at Hampden Park after they were beaten by Dundee United on Sunday.
Celtic were drawn against Inverness as they stay on course to win the treble in Scotland.
But, as far as Matthews is concerned, the demands for success at the Hoops are high regardless of whether Rangers are able to mount a challenge.
Expectations“When you are at a club like Celtic, there are expectations anyway,” explained Matthews.
“It doesn’t matter if Rangers are in or out. The pressure is still there.
“It was there at the start of the cup and it’s still there now.
“The players enjoy playing with that pressure and will be looking forward to the game.”
ProgressingHe added: “We are just taking it one game at a time but obviously it makes the competition easier now that Rangers are out.
“There are still some good teams in there and Dundee United is going to be a tough game.
“I think if we get through this one, we’ve got a good chance of progressing to the final.”
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THERE were a few players in contention for the Man of the Match prize up in Inverness on Saturday, with the two front men in particular giving Inverness a tough time all afternoon.
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But as Neil Lennon looked back on the game, he singled out one of the players who has been a driving force in the side since returning from injury.
Scott Brown has been in exceptional form, also turning into something of a penalty expert in recent weeks and the manager commented: “I challenged him before the game, ‘go on and lead the team’ and he is doing that brilliantly.
Monday on Celtic TV: The post-match Huddle Online
Monday on Celtic TV: The post-match Huddle Online
By: Gregor Kyle on 06 Feb, 2012 17:14
THERE were a few players in contention for the Man of the Match prize up in Inverness on Saturday, with the two front men in particular giving Inverness a tough time all afternoon. But as Neil Lennon looked back on the game, he singled out one of the players who has been a driving force in the side since returning from injury. Scott Brown has been in exceptional form, also?turning into something of a penalty expert in recent weeks and the manager commented: ?I challenged him before the game, ?go on and lead the team' and he is doing that brilliantly. ?We missed him when he was out injured and you can see what he brings to the team. He is a quality player.? Speaking exclusively on tonight's Huddle Online on Celtic TV, the manager also explained why he was so pleased with the win that booked their place in the quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup. ?Inverness is a really tough place to come and, in terms of the cup, apart from being away against Rangers, this is as tough as it gets,” he said. ?I am so proud of the players and the way they applied themselves. Their application, quality and team work was there for all to see. And the supporters were magnificent, so it was a really good day for the club.? Also on tonight's post-match show, we hear from Kelvin Wilson following his 90 minutes against Inverness. ?It was a tough game to go into,? he said. ?The wind was blowing everywhere, it was hard to judge the ball at times, but I think Thomas Rogne and I coped with it pretty well. ?We're all looking forward to the game at Tynecastle now and I've not been there yet, so if I am selected, it will be nice to play and I'll look forward to it. But it's down to the gaffer so we'll see what happens.?
Log in to www.celticfc.tv to find out how to subscribe and watch the club's official online channel and get live coverage of every first team game.Short Story
FOLLOWING the frustration of the postponement of Saturday morning’s match with Hibernian, Celtic Under-19s are eager for a swift return to action as they host Inverness Caley Thistle at Lennoxtown tomorrow (Tuesday).
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The clash with the Easter Road side was a victim of the freezing weather conditions at the weekend, denying the young Hoops the opportunity to gain ground in the league table.
Instead, it will merely increase the amount of games in hand the youths have over the teams immediately above them in the table.
Celtic Under-19s eager for Inverness test
Celtic Under-19s eager for Inverness test
By: Newsroom Staff on 07 Feb, 2012 08:05
FOLLOWING the frustration of the postponement of Saturday morning's match with Hibernian, Celtic Under-19s are eager for a swift return to action as they host Inverness Caley Thistle at Lennoxtown tomorrow (Tuesday). ? The clash with the Easter Road side was a victim of the freezing weather conditions at the weekend, denying the young Hoops the opportunity to gain ground in the league table. ? Instead, it will merely increase the amount of games in hand the youths have over the teams immediately above them in the table. ? With that in mind, coach Tommy McIntyre is hopeful that tomorrow's match is spared by the wintry weather and gets the green light. ? Speaking exclusively to the official Celtic website, he said: ?It's always disappointing when a game is called off because you've prepared all week for it. The players and staff were all looking forward to it but it's important to keep them focused. Their mental attitude is a big thing. ? ?When a game is called off because of the weather it's just one of these things. They were disappointed but we've been fortunate enough to train indoors so we've still been keeping the fitness levels up. ? ?Hibs are three points ahead of us, albeit we have games in hand, so it would have been good to get that game against them, but the important thing is we get back on a run of game. The players been doing well, training well and performing for the Development Squad. ? ?There's been a good spirit about the players so hopefully tomorrow's game will go ahead and we can get back into action.? ? Inverness have also endured several postponements in recent weeks. Indeed, they have yet to play a game since the resumption of league action following the winter shutdown. That means they will be an unknown quantity in terms of fitness and their approach. ?It's been difficult to know what game to expect from them,? said McIntyre. ?We pride ourselves on getting as much information on the opposition as we possibly can, but it has been frustrating in the sense that whenever we have went to see them play their game has been called off. ? ?I don't know what level of activity they will have had but I certainly expect them to have played some bounce games. They will be a bit of a surprise package but the important thing is what we do and how we approach the game. ? ?We don't take anything for granted and we will give them the respect they deserve but it's all about our mental attitude, how we focus and how we start the game.?
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Celtic have been given yet another road tie in the quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup after being drawn against Dundee United.
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Celtic draw Terrors trip
Hoops will go back on the road to face Dundee United in last eight
Last Updated: February 6, 2012 3:08pm
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Celtic have been given yet another road tie in the quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup after being drawn against Dundee United.
Holders the Hoops have travelled to Peterhead and Inverness Caledonian Thistle in the previous two rounds and now face a trip to Tannadice in the sixth round.
Peter Houston’s side currently lie seventh in the Scottish Premier League table this season but have finished fourth and third the last two years.
The Arabs beat Celtic’s Old Firm rivals Rangers 2-0 on Sunday to reach the last eight and will provide a stern test for Neil Lennon’s men.
ClashMonday afternoon’s draw also threw up a potential clash between Motherwell, currently third in the SPL, and Aberdeen should the sixth-placed Dons come through their replay with Division One side Queen of the South.
St Mirren also face an all-SPL tie if they come through their replay against Ross County, with the winners of that tie drawn away to Hearts or St Johnstone.
Hibernian travel to Ayr United or Falkirk, who will contest their fifth-round clash on February 15th after Saturday’s meeting was postponed when the Somerset Park pitch failed a morning inspection.
The three fifth-round replays will be played a day earlier on February 14th, while the quarter-finals will take place on the weekend of March 10th and 11th.
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Peter Houston's team will have to complete an Old Firm double to progress to the last four of the tournament.
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You’re not signed in Sign in Sign upHolders Celtic go to Dundee United in Scottish Cup quarter final
Peter Houston’s team will have to complete an Old Firm double to progress to the last four of the tournament.
06 February 2012 14:35 GMT
296503Pic: ?SNS Group
Holders Celtic have been given an away tie against Dundee United in the quarter finals of the Scottish Cup.
The Tannadice side knocked out Rangers in the fifth round of the competition with a 2-0 win on Sunday and will now play host to Neil Lennon’s side, who progressed with a 2-0 victory over Inverness Caledonian Thistle.
Motherwell’s reward for a thumping 6-0 win over Greenock Morton at the weekend is a home tie against either Aberdeen or Queen of the South. The Dons were held 1-1 by their First Division opponents on Saturday and face a replay at Palmerston laster ths month.
Hibernian, who defeated Kilmarnock, will travel to face First Division opponents in either Ayr United or Falkirk. The two sides are yet to complete their original tie, which fell foul to a frozen pitch.
The winners of the replay between Hearts and St Johnstone will play host to the victorious side of another replay between St Mirren and Ross County.
Quarter final ties will be played on March 10 and 11.
SCOTTISH CUP QUARTER FINAL DRAW
Hearts or St Johnstone v St Mirren or Ross County
Ayr United or Falkirk v Hibernian
Dundee United v Celtic
Motherwell v Aberdeen or Queen of the South
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?Short Story
CELTIC will play Dundee United in the quarter-final of the Scottish Cup. Today´s draw sees the cup holders face a trip to Tannadice.
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Neil Lennon´s side booked their place in the last eight of the competition courtesy of a 2-0 away victory over Inverness Caley Thistle, with Georgios Samaras and Scott Brown scoring the goals.
Celtic face Dundee United in Scottish Cup quarter-final
Celtic face Dundee United in Scottish Cup quarter-final
By: Newsroom Staff on 06 Feb, 2012 14:18
CELTIC?will play?Dundee United?in the quarter-final of the Scottish Cup. Today?s draw sees the cup holders face a trip to Tannadice. ? Neil Lennon?s side booked their place in the last eight of the competition courtesy of a 2-0 away victory over Inverness Caley Thistle, with Georgios Samaras and Scott Brown scoring the goals. Dundee United also enjoyed a 2-0 away win, beating Rangers at Ibrox. ? The quarter-final ties are scheduled for the weekend of March 10. More details on date and kick-off time to follow on the official Celtic website. ? The full draw is: Dundee United v CELTIC Hearts or St Johnstone v St Mirren or Ross County Ayr United or Falkirk v Hibernian
Motherwell v Aberdeen or Queen of the SouthShort Story
Billy Davies and Campbell Ogilvie conduct the draw for the last eight of the Scottish Cup at Hampden.
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Scottish Cup draw as it happened
Dundee United’s pairing with Celtic at Tannadice is the pick of the Scottish Cup quarter-final ties.
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As it happened In Summary
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- The quarter-final draw is… Motherwell v Aberdeen or Queen of the South
- Dundee United v Celtic
- Ayr United or Falkirk v Hibernian
- Hearts or St Johnstone v St Mirren or Ross County
Related to this story
- Keir Murray, BBC Scotland
- Dundee Utd to host Celtic in Cup 06 Feb 2012 Scottish Cup
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CONGRATULATIONS go to Celtic fan Lawrence Tynes who last night helped the New York Giants to a second Super Bowl win in four years.
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Much of America came to a standstill for one of the biggest sporting events of the year as the Giants stood up to the New England Patriots in vying for American Football´s Vince Lombardi Trophy in Indianapolis’ Luacs Oil Stadium, a rerun of the 2008 final which the Giants won 17-14.
This time the score was 21-17 in favour of the New York side, with Tynes scoring two field goals and a conversion during the game.
Super Bowl winner Lawrence Hoops it up
Super Bowl winner Lawrence Hoops it up
By: Newsroom Staff on 06 Feb, 2012 12:57
CONGRATULATIONS go to Celtic fan Lawrence Tynes who last night helped the New York Giants to a second Super Bowl win in four years. Much of America came to a standstill for one of the biggest sporting events of the year as the Giants stood up to the New England Patriots in vying for American Football?s Vince Lombardi Trophy in Indianapolis' Luacs Oil Stadium, a rerun of the 2008 final which the Giants won 17-14. This time the score was 21-17 in favour of the New York side, with Tynes scoring two field goals and a conversion during the game. ? And speaking exclusively to the Celtic View before the Super Bowl final, Tynes said: “The past couple of months I've just focused on our football, but once the season's over, I can get back on the Internet and start following Celtic again. “I want to come back to Scotland. I want to take my wife over, and I think my kids are old enough now ? they'll be five in the summer ? for this kind of trip, and to go to a Celtic game would be awesome.
“I went to a hockey game here in New York last week at Madison Square Gardens. They showed me on the big screen and 18,000 people gave me a standing ovation, which was pretty cool, so 60,000 people at Celtic Park would be even better.”Short Story
Monday February 6 Go on, admit it. you haven't stopped laughing yet, have you? With the nation gripped in the vice of arctic weather, Ally McCoist...
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Tuesday Feb 07th
Home Latest News Celtic in the Media Celtic Diary - Feb 6th
Celtic Diary - Feb 6th
Written by Ralph Malph
Monday, 06 February 2012
Monday February 6
Go on, admit it. you haven't stopped laughing yet, have you?
With the nation gripped in the vice of arctic weather, Ally McCoist and his men brought much needed cheer to the freezing populace by chucking the best hope they had of silverware this season. In front of a massive 17,822 Ibrox crowd, his new look Rangers were beaten 2-0 by Dundee Utd.
And there was much rejoicing.
Twenty four hours earlier Celtic duly despatched Inverness Caley from the cup, in the brisk and business like manner reserved for these occasions, with Gary Hooper personifying the spirit amongst the team, chasing down a seemingly lost ball to earn a penalty which ,when converted by captain Scott Brown, signalled the end of any chance of the northern bogey team (if you believe the papers) recording another shock.
Manager Neil lennon was full of praise for his team, saying it was the best they had played in the city for a long time.
The support too, created something of a "carnival" atmosphere, with congas and huddles, and the catchy "We'll be a having a party when Rangers die". Sky TVs switchboard was jammed with complaints and canceelations of contracts as furious Rangers fans complained of the attention given to them, with another ditty, which mentioned the word "huns" being singled out for special mention. To be fair, they won't need that subscription soon anyway, they'll have no-one to watch.
Former Celtic players, when speaking in the media, usually cause outrage or indifference when they speak out, but midfield legend Paul Lambert raised a huge grin when he, in the Sun newspaper, commented on Rangers bid for Grant Holt.
"The attraction of playing for Rangers is not what it was, but if it was Celtic in for him, I'd have driven him up there myself." More meltdown for Rangers websites.
Lennon himself has also said in the weekends press that Celtic don't need a strong Rangers, and thus endeared himself to the scribes, who now when they publish their thoughts actually still have tear stains on the page. Battle lines are now becoming more visible between the papers, the Record deciding to condemn all at Ibrox for the clubs woes-including Keith Jackson, who slammed "McCoist" (not coisty) for failing to inspire his charges.
The Sun takes the tried and trusted anti-Celtic line, highlighting Alan Thompson being seen drinking with Alan MacGregor, and claimimg Lennon was furious etc. Probably was, if news about our move for the Rangers keeper gets out... After all, we need back up if Dominic Cervi gets hurt again.
Lennon also commented on Rangers financial state, saying the "chickens had come home to roost", which was maybe unprofessional of him, but a lot better than what he really wanted to say, which would have been along the lines of how bad it really was, and how funny he was finding it.
BBC Scotland covered the Rangers game yesterday, with top expert Pat Nevin on hand to offer his invaluable and insightful opinion.At half time, after the first two guests refused to take their lead from a somewhat downbeat Rob MacLean, to talk about what the Gers had done wrong (they said it was more about Dundee Utd doing well) Pat staunchly took up the bait. "Coisty will be setting about them now" he said, with no shame whatsoever, and looked as though he was about to storm down into the dressing room himself to help sort it out. This from a man who couldn't fight sleep, as well.
Other little snippets sneaking out from Ibrox include a story that Kyle Lafferty was almost sold at the end of the window, and that Craig Whyte has a plan B which he is keeping close to his chest, in case Rangers lose their tax case.
Exclusively, I can reveal that this plan involves nipping to the bank, withdrawing all the money and hopping on a plane to an island far ,far away.
last weeks Celtic Riddle was Fergus McCanns best pal Luigi Macari and well done to Brendan Morgan for being first out the pile. Send your answers to todays Riddle to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
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ETims - The Main Event1/8 Celtic Diary - Feb 7th
Tuesday February 7
In keeping with the pattern of this seasons Scottish cup run, the SFA had a quick look at who was left in the competition and drew us away to the side still left in that is the furthest north.(Replays don't count, they can backfire) Celtic will travel to Tannadice to face the Dundee Utd side who swept Rangers out of the tournament last Sunday, the beaks presumably trying tire the team out before they get there to even things up a bit.
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Short Story
YOUNG Celt James Keatings came on for the last six minutes of St Johnstone’s 1-1 Scottish Cup draw against Hearts at Tynecastle for his first game with the Saints since joining on loan until the end of the season.
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But it was a former Celt in Cillian Sheridan who netted the vital equaliser for 10-man St Johnstone.
Lewis Toshney, on loan at Kilmarnock, was an unused substitute in their 1-0 cup defeat at Easter Road against Hibernian.
Loan Bhoy Keatings helps Saints to Tynecastle draw
Loan Bhoy Keatings helps Saints to Tynecastle draw
By: Paul Cuddihy on 06 Feb, 2012 12:16
YOUNG Celt James Keatings came on for the last six minutes of St Johnstone's 1-1 Scottish Cup draw against Hearts at Tynecastle for his first game with the Saints since joining on loan until the end of the season. But it was a former Celt in Cillian Sheridan who netted the vital equaliser for 10-man St Johnstone. Lewis Toshney, on loan at Kilmarnock, was an unused substitute in their 1-0 cup defeat at Easter Road against Hibernian. Former Celtic Craig Reid was in Scottish Cup action at the weekend, helping Queen of the South draw 1-1 with Aberdeen at Pittodrie, while David van Zanten, Jim Goodwin and Paul McGowan will be relieved that their St Mirren side will have the chance to book a place in the last eight of the Scottish Cup in a replay away to Ross County, the Highland side missing a last-minute penalty in Paisley which would have won the tie. And former Celt, Willo Flood came on as a substitute late in the second-half of Dundee United's 2-0 cup win over Rangers at Ibrox. Daryl Murphy had been on the scoresheet in Ipswich's midweek thrashing of West Ham United, and while the Irishman didn't get a goal on Saturday, he still helped his side to a 3-2 win at Coventry, who are bottom of the Championship. In the same division, Leeds United bounced back from a 4-1 home defeat against Birmingham City to win 3-0 at Bristol City, with loan Bhoy, Darren O'Dea in the heart of the Leeds defence for the victory against a Bristol side who ended up with nine men. And Josh Thompson played for Chesterfield in their 2-1 defeat away to Carlisle United in League One. Former Celtic midfielder Stilian Petrov skippered Aston Villa at the weekend when they took on Newcastle United at St James' Park, with the home side winning 2-1. Striker Marc-Antoine Fortune was on target for West Brom against Swansea, but despite his goal, it was the Welsh side who ran out 2-1 winners. In Holland, striker Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink came on for the last six minutes of PSV Eindhoven's 1-1 draw at Herucles, a result which keeps PSV top of the Eredivsie table, three points ahead of FC Twente. In Italy, Artur Boruc helped Fiorentina to an impressive 3-2 home win over Udinese, who are currently third in Serie A. Fiorentina are currently sitting 10th in the table. And it was a successful weekend for the former Celts managing in the English Premier League, with Martin O'Neill's Sunderland side recording an impressive 1-0 victory at Stoke to stay eighth in the table. The only goal of the game came from former Derry City winger, James McClean. Since taking over at the Stadium of Light, O'Neill's side have won seven of their 10 league games, drawing two and losing just one ?a narrow 1-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea. Paul Lambert's Norwich City are one of the sides to have lost to Sunderland, going down 3-0 last week, but they bounced back on Saturday and are just a point behind Sunderland following a 2-0 victory over Bolton. ? And Mick McCarthy also enjoyed a win at the weekend, with Wolves beating Queens Park Rangers 2-1 at Loftus Road, with Kevin Doyle scoring the vital winner. Davie Moyes' Everton drew 1-1 away to Wigan, who had ex-Celt Gary Caldwell in the heart of their defence. In the Championship, Tony Mowbray's Middlesbrough could only draw 0-0 at home to Crystal Palace and now sit sixth in the table. Stephen McManus was an unused substitute in that match. But it was a disappointing day for Malky Mackay as his Cardiff City side lost 3-1 at home to Blackpool, though they remain in third place, two points behind Southampton, who drew 0-0 away to Birmingham City, despite having former Celt Danny Fox sent off late in the game. In the Scottish Third Division, Paul Hartley's Alloa Athletic side maintained their position at the top of the table with a 2-1 victory over Queen's Park at Hampden in front of a crowd of 711.
Short Story
Dundee United are drawn to face holders Celtic in the quarter finals of the Scottish Cup.
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For people of a Rangers persuasion the idea of the Ibrox club being liquidated is a disaster beyond their comprehension. However for the rest of us on Planet Fitba we should be mindful never to waste a disaster. Now that people are discussing Rangers being liquidated I think that it is possible for the discourse [...]
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