Preview – St. Johnstone vs Kilmarnock
Craig Levein picked up his only league win of the season the last time these sides met. Just over three months on from the 3-0 victory, Derek McInnes will hope to come away with the spoils and create some distance from the Perth club. We take a look at the biggest talking points from the sides separated by only two points. Killie waiting to kick into gear Six games without a win would have put most managers amongst the bookies’ favourites for the sack, but not Derek McInnes. It seems the man can do no wrong after guiding Kilmarnock into the European places last season, making Rugby Park into one of the league’s most difficult grounds to visit in the process. The subsequent play-off games as the side were knocked out the Europa and Conference Leagues proved to be too tiring for a squad that seemed to lack the depth to handle the congested fixture list. Results improved as the side recovered from tired legs, winning half their games since their exit, with Rangers another casualty of Killie’s giant-killing prowess. Unfortunately, their impressive fourth place finish last season means McInnes has become a victim of his own success. The bar has now been set and fans will expect a similar result come the end the season. In order to get anywhere near the upper echelons of the table again, they must find some consistency in their results. Defeats to Ross County and Dundee are not as easily forgiven as they once were and another to the Saints would be a further setback in Killie’s attempts to cement their place amongst the top sides. The manager’s job is by no means on the line, but will nonetheless be desperate to avoid being on the receiving end of another bloody nose. Saints must halt slow decline Simo Valakari will no doubt realise that attacking football is little comfort to fans if they find themselves looking at the drop. What started as the most promising kind of new manager bounce, with six points from nine (Rangers grabbing the difference), has turned into something of a mini-slump for the Saints. Three defeats on the trot have exposed the fault lines in the squad for all to see. A destructive attacking trio on their day, Benjamin Kimpioka, Nicky Clark and Adama Sidibeh have given new life to a squad that looked out of ideas only a couple of months ago. For all their promise going forward, St. Johnstone have failed to solve the conundrum that has plagued fellow strugglers Hibernian, how to prevent sides from cutting through them. With twenty-seven shipped this season, they are the league’s worst defensive unit. The poor form of Ross Sinclair and Josh Rae between the sticks has not helped matters either. If Valakari is impatiently counting down the days until he can make his first purchases to remedy the situation, he will need to keep one eye on the seven games before the window opens. Not making the most of the twenty-one points available could see them too far back for any signings to turn things around.
Alistair Johnston has signed a new contract at Celtic
Celtic announce that Canadian international Alistair Johnston has signed a new contract, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2029. The talented right-back joined Celtic at the end of 2022 and has already made a significant impact, clocking up 79 appearances and scoring six goals. His performances have been pivotal in the club’s recent achievements. This week, Alistair also celebrated a milestone on the international stage, earning his 50th and 51st caps for Canada. Speaking about his new deal, Alistair said: “I’m absolutely delighted to extend my stay with Celtic. From the moment I arrived in 2022, I’ve felt at home here, and it’s been an incredible experience to be part of such a prestigious club. “Pulling on this iconic jersey every week is a true honour, and achieving success with my teammates has been immensely rewarding. But we’re hungry for more, and that’s what drives us. “Working in this set-up, alongside the gaffer, the staff, and such a talented squad, is a privilege. The camaraderie and quality in the dressing room are second to none, and I’m looking forward to helping bring even more success to our amazing fans in the years ahead.” Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers shared his excitement, saying: “This is fantastic news for everyone connected with Celtic. In a short time, Alistair has proven himself to be an outstanding player, delivering consistent, high-quality performances week after week. “His work ethic, hunger, and positivity, combined with his love for the game and drive to improve, make him a fantastic asset to the club. “It was essential for us to secure his future with Celtic, and I’m delighted we’ve been able to do so.” The club looks forward to seeing Alistair continue to excel and contribute to Celtic’s ongoing success.
RUMOUR ZONE: Managerial Moves, Transfer Rumours, and MORE
Managerial Moves, Transfer Rumours, and Expert Opinions: Here’s What’s Happening in Scottish Football Philippe Clement: The Rangers boss is being tipped as a potential replacement for Belgium manager Domenico Tedesco. With Vincent Mannaert, Clement’s former CEO, now serving as Belgian FA sports director, and Belgium’s recent struggles, the connection is gaining traction. (Daily Record) Christian Eriksen to Celtic? Former Manchester United player Paul Parker has floated the idea of the Danish midfielder joining Celtic on a free transfer this summer, calling it an “obvious” move that “makes sense.” (SpilXperten via Football Scotland) James Tavernier to Al-Ettifaq? Michael Beale’s reunion with Steven Gerrard at the Saudi club has reignited speculation about an approach for the Rangers captain. (Daily Record) Lennon Miller on Celtic’s Radar: Former Scotland international Brian McClair believes Celtic should prioritise signing the Motherwell teenager, suggesting they missed a trick by letting him slip through their grasp earlier. (Gambling.com via Daily Record) Nils Koppen’s Promotion: Barry Ferguson acknowledges the scepticism surrounding the appointment of Nils Koppen as Ibrox technical director but shares his excitement for what this move could mean for Rangers’ future. (Daily Record) Steven Naismith’s Future: The former Hearts manager is holding out for the right opportunity, saying he won’t take a job just “for the sake of getting back in.” (Scottish Sun) Alex Neil to Philadelphia Union? The Scottish manager and former Stoke City boss is reportedly in the running for the vacant role at the MLS club. (Daily Record)