Jota sealed his megabucks move to Saudi Arabia and Celtic fans are looking for instant recompense.
The Portuguese’s switch to Al-Ittihad has poured more millions into the Parkhead coffers and boss Brendan Rodgers now has the task of spending it astutely with the Parkhead side hunting some big deals. Alan Ryan, Carluke, said: “Celtic had cash. Now they have more cash. So I’m looking for some big investments and exciting arrivals.” Robert Dale, Penicuik, added: “Rodgers must have a plan along with the board and I’m excited by what is coming next.” Willie McCourt, Hamilton, did warn: “I heard it said that Celtic now have a Champions League budget. Are you joking? Newcastle are back into the group stage for the first time in years and have just spent £55 million on the boy Tonali from AC Milan. One player. They’ve spent £300 million since their new owners arrived. Celtic can’t get near that.”
Ex-Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has also headed for Saudi and had his decision to switch to the Middle East lambasted by pundit Simon Jordan. But Frank McFerran, Carrickfergus, said: “It angers me when multi-millionaires like Jordan take issue with players and managers going to Saudi Arabia for their football. These players will be debt free for the rest of their lives.”
John Brice added: “There’s no doubt that it was a strange sight seeing Gerrard in Al Ettifaq’s colours for the first time. But that all pales into insignificance when it is remembered that he led Rangers to 55 and stopped ten-in-a-row. So he will always be seen as a Rangers legend.” Derek Morris, Stirling, quipped: “With Gerrard on £12 million per year, Brendan must be getting itchy feet.”
Gerrard’s old assistant Michael Beale is currently adding to his squad during his reshaping of the unit. It’s becoming a big group and Dr Robert S Pender said: “Credit to board and the manager. Let’s hope they all gel quickly and understand only 11 can play. Disappointment at not being first choice can cause problems. Beale has his work cut out.”
Europe will be a big target for both Celtic and Rangers this season and Chris Lowe has been on the Hotline discussing the Parkhead team’s recent disappointing performances on the continent. James McParland, Coatbridge, said: “Chris is correct that Celtic have been poor in Europe, but we aren’t the worst team to ever play in the Champions League. Rangers hold that title and not that long ago we have beaten Barca, Juventus, Man U and Liverpool. When did Rangers ever beat any of those sides? The answer is never.”
John Stuart, Blantyre, had a response for a caller as he said: “I had to laugh at Gary Stevenson’s quip about loyalty at Celtic. You can smell the fear emanating from the Rangers fans. Who is next, he asks? It doesn’t really matter because with Brendan at the helm we will be organised and already have quality named replacements to come in reinvesting the significant funds we receive. Maybe there’s a chance that the Saudis will come back for Scott Wright, Glen Kamara, Antonio Colak or Rabbi Matondo? Or then again maybe not. On the specific issue of loyalty, I take it Gary won’t be going along to the Allan McGregor testimonial?”
Hearts boss Frankie McAvoy has boldly stated that he is aiming for his team to split Glasgow’s big two in the upcoming campaign. But Neil Renton, Leith, isn’t so sure and said: “Frankie, Steven Naismith. Whoever is in charge of Hearts, someone better tell them that they can sign players as well as lose them just now. They’ll be lucky to get in the position they did last season where they blew third place.”
READ NEXT
