Brendan Rodgers and Celtic have been the subject of much discussion this weekend after the Hoops edged out Ross County 1-0 at Parkhead to go five points clear in the Scottish Premiership table.
Despite winning six matches on the bounce, the Scottish champions weren’t at their usual free-flowing best throughout; however, Alistair Johnston’s strike ricocheted past George Wickens in the first minute to ensure all three points on home soil.
Given that Rangers managed to topple St Mirren in the early kick-off by the same scoreline, it was imperative that the Bhoys got the job done yesterday by any means necessary.
Nevertheless, they didn’t make it easy for themselves against the Staggies, and their performance is unlikely to inspire confidence ahead of a triple-header against Aberdeen, Hibernian and St Mirren.
Post-match, Rodgers gave a hopeful response when asked if there would be any incomings at the club before the transfer deadline, stating: “Hopefully there’s movement, that’s the plan. Getting that player in who can help our level and allow us to develop. We will see over the coming days, but hopefully that’s the case.”
Chris Sutton thinks Celtic are in a ‘strange position’ at present
Taking to social media platform X after the Ross County victory, Celtic icon Chris Sutton shared his belief that his old club are in a ‘strange position’ due to their slow recruitment this month.
Nicolas Kuhn has been the only addition to walk through the door at the Scottish champions this month despite Rodgers’ repeated cry for ‘quality’ arrivals to pitch up in Glasgow to help his side’s progress.
In light of Greg Taylor’s recent injury, Alexandro Bernabei was drafted in to play at left-back against the Staggies despite barely featuring this term.
Celtic are now believed to be actively looking for cover in the position and have ‘accelerated’ their advances following the former’s absence [Mark Hendry].
Celtic need to get a move on in the transfer market
It goes without saying, but Celtic have to make tangible progress sooner rather than later on new signings with the transfer deadline fast approaching.
Bologna striker Sydney van Hooijdonk’s name continues to be mentioned in connection with the club. Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph has indicated that the Hoops have been ‘monitoring’ his situation for ‘some time’ amid rumours he could depart this window.
Estoril’s Tiago Araujo has also been floated as a potential left-back recruit, though things appear to have gone cold on that front for the time being.
Sutton looks to have a point with his frustrations at the Bhoys’ recruitment strategy, and it remains to be seen whether movement will happen in the dying embers before the market closes.
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