Celtic and their Champions League gamble
As if facing a lengthy trip to the far end of Kazakhstan isn’t daunting enough, Celtic fans are left wondering when or if Brendan Rodgers will get to splash the cash. With the play-off tie against Kairat Almaty starting with next week’s first leg in Glasgow, what should be the start of another exciting Euro adventure is already fraught with nerves as Celtic’s reinforcements are slow in arriving. Last season, Rodgers’ men successfully navigated the group phase, but were undone by Bayern Munich in the knockout play-off round. Apart from a sound trashing by Borussia Dortmund, they made a great account of themselves in Europe’s premier competition and the assumption would be they would look to kick on and go again. So far, the transfers haven’t exactly whipped the fans into a frenzy. Eight players have been signed – two free transfers, one loan and four involving fees totalling somewhere between £4 million and £5 million. All of whom will no doubt do a job in some capacity, maybe in the long term, but it’s not exciting the supporters. Last year, they spent over £40 million and broke their transfer record twice by bringing in Adam Idah from Norwich for £9 million and Arne Engels for £11 million, both of whom haven’t quite set the heather alight. So who is to blame for this lack of activity? The Celtic boss has remained diplomatic in his comments when it comes to transfer activity, but the undercurrent seems to be of a man frustrated that his attempts to really strengthen the team haven’t come to fruition. Rodgers is a man with ambition. Since the day he first walked into Celtic Park, he’s always wanted to take them to the next level. Last season, he did. This season, who knows? Between the reported £30 million – £40 million in prize money, depends on who you read, not to mention the sale of Nicolas Kuhn to Como for £16 million, the coffers have been swelled again. Now, it’s not for this writer to expect Celtic to splash the money once it starts burning a hole in their pocket, but fans are right to wonder just where the cash is going if they’re not spending it to upgrade the team. Why are the board so frugal and are they willing to irk Rodgers again? Let’s not forget, the Northern Irishman has seen this movie before, which played its part in him leaving for Leicester. The squad deadline is 11pm tonight to register any new players for the Kairat tie and, barring any major development, the current squad, as is, will be trusted to try and get them to the group stage. If the plan is to wait and see if Celtic can do it before they splash the cash in the manner they did in the final week of last August’s transfer window, it’s a risky strategy. If they don’t qualify, what then? It’s a Europa League campaign, which is where they don’t want to be ideally. Failure to reach the Champions League will lead to further disgruntlement for the fans and maybe even tip Rodgers towards the exit door again. The next couple of weeks will really show the level of ambition the Celtic board have. Domestically, there shouldn’t be any problems, but complacency could be a killer for them.
Gray staying grounded despite first leg success
Hibernian welcome Partizan Belgrade to Easter Road as they look to keep their Europa Conference League group phase dream alive and avoid a repeat of the disappointing defeat to FC Midtjylland a fortnight ago. David Gray and his team went to Serbia in last Thursday’s first leg and took home a 2-0 victory in which Martin Boyle produced the goals in a magical night to boost the Scottish co-efficient. Belgrade will travel to Edinburgh as they look to overturn the deficit, whilst Hibs will fancy their chances of extending their lead in the tie in front of a sold-out Easter Road crowd. Should Hibernian progress the job doesn’t get any easier as they will face AEK Larnaca or Legia Warsaw, where Larnaca lead 4-1 after the first leg. Preparations from both sides have differed with Hibs throwing away a two-goal lead in Kilmarnock while their Serbian foes recorded a resounding 7-2 away win over Napredak. Hibs boss David Gray refuses to get too excited, despite the first leg and has urged the fans to fill the stands. “It’s half time in the tie, nothing’s been achieved yet we start this game at 0-0,” he told the press conference on Wednesday. “We’ll be approaching this game as though it’s goalless with it all to play for because we all know the threat and danger Partizan possess. “They have real good quality technical players who are at that level for a reason. We need to be at our very best to get a positive result. “You can never ever underestimate the power of what the fans can do to really spur you on.” Midfielder Jamie McGrath also spoke at the press conference and revealed how desperate he and his teammates are to be the first Hibs players to make it to the group stages in a European competition. He added: “The gaffer said a Hibs team have never got through to the group stages and that is something in the back of our minds as we want to be the first to do it. “We can’t afford to take our eye of the ball of we will be punished.” Recent signing Grant Hanley could make his European debut after getting his first taste as a Hibee in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Kilmarnock while Partizan will be without Vukasin Djurdjevic who was sent off in last Thursday’s first leg. The game kicks off at 8pm and will be shown live on the BBC Scotland channel.
Rangers struggle but progress in Champions League
Vikroria Plzen 2 – 1 Rangers (Rangers win 4-2 on aggregate) Durosinmi (41′), Markovic (83′) Cameron (60′) Rangers are just one step away from the Champions League but they certainly made hard work of it as Viktoria Plzen secured a 2-1 home win, which wasn’t enough for them in the end. It was a complete contrast to last week’s swashbuckling 3-0 home win over the Czech side, but they got the job done. That’s really about the only positive to take from it, in all honesty. Saturday’s 1-1 draw at home to Dundee was not the ideal preparation as Russell Martin recalled captain James Tavernier and Nico Raskin in midfield, with Max Aarons and Joe Rothwell stepping out. There was a slight injury scare as Cyriel Dessers needed treatment on a wrist injury, but was fine to continue. More importantly, despite perhaps bracing themselves for an onslaught from Plzen, you would have imagined keen to close the gap, it really didn’t materialise. The pace of the game was ponderous at times as the Czech side seemed to lack urgency in spite of their predicament and Rangers didn’t need to do anything silly. Lukáš Červ tested Gers keeper Jack Butland with a fierce effort to remind the Ibrox men they weren’t going away yet. A penalty claim from Dessers shortly after fell on deaf ears. Prince Adu got the better of Tavernier at one point and it was another scary moment as the ball went wide. Plzen took the lead four minutes before the break with Jefte tangling himself up as he tried to keep up with Amar Memic. He nicely teed up Rafiu Durosinmi who buried his chance and the aggregate was reduced to two. Rangers were rocked and returned to the dressing room at half time needing a breather. Memic went close five minutes after the restart as Plzen smelled blood in the water while Prince Adu’s header needed Butland to deal with it. Dessers went off injured with a possible knee problem, where he was replaced by Danilo, but Rangers’ more pressing concerns were at the other end as the home side pushed them. They alleviated those fears when Lyall Cameron opened his Gers account, poking home Danilo’s attempt and the three-goal cushion was restored. In a poor performance, it was a little bit of something that the Ibrox men needed and seemed to take the wind out of Plzen’s sails after their valiant attempts to try and claw the momentum back. Prince Adu forced another great save from Butland as the Czech outfit continued to knock on the door, with the Englishman on hand shortly after to deal with Milan Havel’s header. Despite his heroics, Butland could do nothing about Svetozar Markovic’s header to bring Plzen to within two again with seven minutes to go. Suddenly, Rangers were starting to feel nervous again. They got over the line eventually, but they sure made hard work of it. Play like that against Club Brugge and they can forget about a run out with the big boys. Martin has much to do before he can even entertain that possibility.
SPFL Weekly – Matchday 2: Five Talking Points
Hearts served up a pulsating finale at Tannadice, while Rangers faltered with an unchanged side at home to Dundee. Elsewhere, concerns mounted for the goalless Aberdeen and St Mirren, Livingston claimed promotion bragging rights, and Kilmarnock fought back to frustrate Hibs. While BBC Sportscene marked its 50th birthday with a special edition on Saturday — and a welcome return for presenter Dougie Donnelly — they brought the weekend’s action to the small screen. But while they show it, here’s our take on the big talking points from Matchday 2 of the 2025/26 SPFL season. Set-Piece Heaven: Findlay and Grant Lead the Way Stuart Findlay. Take a bow. Fresh from scoring the second against Aberdeen last week, he delivered again. This time, in dramatic fashion, heading a last-minute winner at Tannadice to keep Hearts top. Not to mention his part in the other goals, he won the penalty for Lawrence Shankland and nodded in the equaliser too. His heroics also spared Zander Clark’s blushes after mistakes in both Dundee United goals, prompting the ‘keeper to sprint the length of the pitch at full-time to celebrate with his saviour. Cheers, Stu. The Jambos began with Alan Forrest at right wing-back but struggled to make inroads down that side — a sharp contrast to the hosts’ stand-in wing-back, Ivan Dolček, who struck twice. Most of Hearts’ threat came down the left, where Harry Milne thrived in the final third, linking superbly with the attack. James Penrice, who? It will concern Dundee United that all three goals they conceded came from set pieces, with former staff member Ross Grant — now Hearts’ set-piece coach — returning to haunt them. Squad depth at wing-back is also an issue, mirroring Hearts’ problems in that area, though Dolček impressed in his stint on the right. Derek McInnes again showed his tactical acumen, reshaping his side at half-time to address their problems on the right. Moving Michael Steinwinder to right-back and Alexandros Kyziridis to right midfield helped nullify the threat of Dolček. However, a move for a new right-back and a goalkeeper after Clark’s recent woes could also be on the cards. United is still in the early stages of rebuilding after a busy summer. Still, signs of promise are already there with Dolček and marquee signing Amar Fateh returning from injury. Their immediate focus is on Europe, with a credible away result against Rapid Vienna setting up a big night at Tannadice. Victory would move them closer to the group stage and the potential £5m windfall it brings. With momentum building over the past two years, Jim Goodwin is now discussing a new contract. Rejoice! As for Hearts, Tony Bloom’s bold prediction of a title challenge within the next decade might be closer than many think… Dee-Light at Ibrox as Dundee Rattle Rangers For the first time in 36 years, Rangers have opened a league season without a win in either of their first two games, and Russell Martin is still waiting for his first Premiership victory as head coach. Russell Martin admitted last week his side didn’t deserve a point — and, arguably, they didn’t here either, despite James Tavernier’s late penalty salvaging one. Dundee might have been cruelly denied had Cyriel Dessers’ stoppage-time strike stood, but the offside flag spared them. The Glasgow side fielded an unchanged eleven from their resounding 3-0 win midweek against Viktoria Plzeň. With hindsight, Martin should have made changes, as his team lacked intensity. Rangers are a work in progress, with new owners, a new boss, new signings, and a few out. Yet, in Glasgow, patience is in short supply, and the fans are already restless. This was evident with the booing throughout the match, particularly of second-half substitutions Nico Raskin and Kieran Dowell. Despite Rangers’ lethargy, Dundee deserves full credit for exploiting it. Energetic and brave, they were unrecognisable from their limp League Cup displays. Steven Pressley geed up his team for this tie, particularly Luke Graham’s standout defensive performance. And special mention goes to Ryan Astley, whose terrific second-half header gave Dundee the lead and had them on the brink of a marquee win for Pressley, if not for Captain Tav’s intervention from the penalty spot. Nasser Djiga’s afternoon also ended on a sour note, the defender seeing red for bringing down Fin Robertson as the last man just minutes after Astley’s opener. No appealing that one. Dons & Buddies Draw Blanks Aberdeen and St Mirren have failed to score in their opening two games of the season, though each has a different take on their final-third troubles. The Saints remain confident the goals will come and are only likely to enter the market if the price is right (think free transfers and loans). Context matters, having already travelled to Celtic Park and faced a rejuvenated Motherwell. They looked threatening in spells but perhaps missing pace in attack, a Toyosi Olusanya-type figure since his move to the USA in April. Aberdeen, meanwhile, have also endured a tough start, opening away to ‘title-chasing’ Hearts and last season’s champions Celtic. But they have looked worryingly toothless, with their only real threat to Kasper Schmeichel a long-range strike from Adil Aouchiche and a miscommunication between Shin Yamada and the veteran keeper. Their summer signing, Yusini Yengi, has endured a difficult start. He squandered a gilt-edged chance at Tynecastle and was underwhelming against the Hoops’ defence. At times on Sunday, he looked an isolated figure before being hooked on 55 minutes. Both captain Nicky Devlin and manager Jimmy Thelin have backed the Australian to come good, insisting he needs time and more attacking support from those around him. Yengi’s woes haven’t stopped the Pittodrie side from entering the market. They have been linked with Swedish winger Kenan Bilalovic for a six-figure fee and young AC Milan striker Marko Lazetic on a free transfer, albeit with a hefty sell-on clause attached. With Europa League qualifiers looming and Friday’s European signing deadline fast approaching, Aberdeen’s need for firepower is urgent. Lions Roar Again
Sportscene at 50: A nostalgia fest in a modern age
Sometimes we just want to see the football and less of the chat. On Saturday’s 50th birthday edition of Sportscene, the sight of Dougie Donnelly return to hosting duties was essential viewing. Scotland’s premier football highlights took fans of a certain vintage back in time to mark the show’s half century as some of the game’s legendary broadcasters were behind the mic one more time to be part of the celebrations. As well as Dougie, ever the smooth anchorman we’ve come to know and love, Archie McPherson and Jock Brown returned to commentary to lend their recognisable voices to the day’s Premiership action. And we loved it all. The show started with a skit as current presenter Steven Thompson appeared to be practicing his links in the new studio, located in the middle of the BBC Scotland Pacific Quay HQ while a man in a brown coat and bunnet, brandishing a brush (playing a sweeper role you might say) worked within earshot. Fancying a shot at delivering the link himself, the coat and bunnet came off and of course, it’s Mr Donnelly, who, without missing a beat delivers a fabulous intro to camera: “Hello! Good to have you with us. Welcome to Sportscene at 50.” Cue music and titles. The next hour was a brilliant mix of old voices, memories and the current day’s action as the generations intertwined, specifically Thompson reduced to a punditry role for the night alongside Gordon Smith, a man who graced the old Sportscene couch for years. The first game of the day belonged to Archie McPherson, who was sent to the SMISA Stadium for St Mirren’s clash with Motherwell. This is a man who commentated on Archie Gemmill’s famous goal against the Netherlands in 1978 (even cheerfully recalling having the record the commentary again for the movie ‘Trainspotting’ where it soundtracked a sex scene he later found out), a voice of numerous cup finals and very much, the voice of many massive Scottish football moments through the years. Sadly, this was also the man who had to sit through a goalless draw as Stephen Robinson’s side and the Steelmen shared the points. Such a shame the occasion wasn’t befitting of the man covering it. Then it was off to Livingston where Jock Brown, setting aside the internal strife at Hamilton Accies where he is currently chairman, took the mic for their game against fellow former Championship dwellers, Falkirk. A much better affair and hearing Brown call the action and the way his voice rises at the goals took us all back to the 80’s and 90’s when he covered the action for Scotsport as well as Sportscene. He would certainly have enjoyed Lewis Smith’s cracker of a goal that put Livi 2-0, with more analysis following. Then it was Rob McLean’s turn, a former Sportscene presenter and commentator and still works for the Corporation on a freelance basis as he covered Rangers’ surprise 1-1 draw with Dundee at Ibrox. Once the business of the day was complete, there was a special message from Hazel Irvine, dubbed “The First Lady of Sportscene” – a title that’s hard to argue with. Archie was in the studio afterwards after the trauma of his goalless fest in Paisley to recall what being part of the show meant to him and his memories of a long and storied career. The show finished with a monologue by Dougie, who thanked everyone associated with the programme through the years. That same twinkle in the eye was still there, that flawless delivery and suddenly it was all over. You can tell they all enjoyed being back on a programme that’s meant so much to them and afterwards, a call for Dougie to return to the gig permanently was put out by numerous people online. That’s how good he was. He left the BBC in 2010 and works on golf’s Asian Tour these days, but people like Thompson, in the most respectful way possible, would have taken a lot from watching a master at work. We certainly enjoyed seeing them and hearing them again. Happy birthday, Sportscene!
Partick Thistle 1-1 Morton: Rivals Draw in Firhill Thriller
There was no shortage of thrills at Firhill as Partick Thistle began their home league campaign against rivals Greenock Morton. Thistle fans were looking for a response following a disastrous opening-day defeat to relegated St Johnstone. The Jags had taken an early lead in Perth but collapsed, conceding five without reply. Morton’s start to the season was more complicated. Manager Dougie Imrie, linked with the Firhill job in the summer before Thistle appointed Mark Wilson, missed the opening league fixture for personal reasons. Technical head coach Billy Davies stepped in, guiding the side to a 0–0 draw with Neil Lennon’s Dunfermline. Team News Imrie returned to the dugout in Maryhill, making three changes: Eammon Brophy was handed his full debut, with Cammy Blues and Ali Crawford also starting. Owen Moffat, Kerr Robertson, and Michael O’Halloran dropped out. Thistle made two changes of their own, with debutant goalkeeper Josh Clarke and home-grown midfielder Ben Stanway replacing Lewis Budinauckas and Ts’oanelo Lets’osa. Before kick-off, a minute’s applause for lifelong Thistle supporter Robert Reid was warmly observed by both sets of fans, while Morton’s travelling support unveiled a banner for their manager’s young daughter reading: Keep fighting, Remi. First Half The opening stages saw few chances, the blustery conditions leading to scrappy play. Thistle’s Logan Chalmers went closest in the first half hour, his wind-assisted free-kick from wide drifting just past James Storer’s post. Morton finally made the breakthrough in the 35th minute. A Cammy Ballantyne cross was held up by Brophy at the near post before being laid off for the onrushing Crawford to fire home, sparking bedlam among the away fans. The visitors then struck the bar twice in quick succession through captain Jackson Longridge and Tomi Adeloye. Thistle responded immediately, Chalmers’ strike crashing off the inside of the post and straight into Storer’s arms. Second Half The game burst into life after the break. Thistle introduced Lets’osa for Luke McBeth, and the Lesotho-born midfielder quickly won his side a penalty after a clattering challenge from Longridge. Chalmers stepped up, sending Storer the wrong way to level the match. Imrie, Davies and Longridge were all visibly unhappy with the referees award of the spot kick against their side. Minutes later, Chalmers broke down the left and squared for Aidan Fitzpatrick, who raced through the middle. With only the advancing Storer to beat, the former Norwich winger somehow dragged his effort wide. Both sides would threaten in the dying stages, with both putting set pieces into dangerous area but neither keeper was forced into any late action as the match ended square. What’s next? Thistle at least have a point on the board, and Morton pick up a valuable away draw but both sides remain in search of a first league win of the season. Both sides now turn their attention to Premier Sports Cup action, with a home tie with Scott Brown’s Ayr United next week for the Maryhill men whilst Imrie, Davies and co host Scottish Cup winners Aberdeen at Cappielow in their own second round tie. Partick Thistle: Clarke; Logan (McPherson 69′), Reading, Ashcroft, O’Reilly; Stanway (MacKenzie 84′) , McBeth (Lets’osa 46′), Crawford; Fitzpatrick, Chalmers, Watt Subs not used: Budinauckas; Lawless, Horn, Falconer. Scorer: Chalmers (50′) Greenock Morton: Storer; Ballantyne, Moore, Longridge, Deleney; Wilson, Blues (Moffat 67′), Crawford (Garrity 84′), Taylor (Robertson 67′); Brophy (McKay 78′), Adeloye (O’Halloran 67′) Subs not used: Murdoch; Corr, Hart. Scorer: Crawford (32′) Att: 3,926
SPFL Weekly – Matchday 1: Five Talking Points
Russell Martin blows his top after a lacklustre showing, Luke McCowan spares blunt Celtic with late heroics, and Derek McInnes’ Jambos breezed into pole position for title challenge. Kieron Bowie was the Starman at Den’s Park, and it was a level start on opening day for promoted sides. We’re back! Here’s our round-up of the big talking points from Matchday 1 in the 2025/26 SPFL season. Martin Fires Warning Shot The post-match talk to the press is rarely more explosive than the game. Yet the new man in the dugout, Russell Martin, let rip in his Sky Sports interview after their opening SPFL game at Fir Park, criticising the mentality of his squad. He accused some of his Teddy Bears of ‘reverting to type’ and needing to ‘drop their egos’. An impressive second-half performance from Motherwell saw Emmanuel Longelo’s powerful strike cancel out James Tavernier’s first-half header in the 1-1 draw. The Lanarkshire side could have won, too, with Jack Butland denying Tom Sparrow, who scored their winner at Ibrox in March, in the game’s dying moments. Martin admitted that his ex-Norwich teammate’s side, Jens Berthel Askou, who joined Motherwell in the summer as Head Coach, was ‘braver’ and more ‘aggressive’ than his side and was lucky to get a point. Their supporters booed off the Glasgow side at full-time, echoing déjà vu from last season. The Brighton man, who played for Rangers on loan in 2018, delivered similar criticism in context to Barry Ferguson’s comments last season. Although Martin said it was ‘not an attack on anyone personally’ ahead of tonight’s Champions League qualifier against Viktoria Plzen at Ibrox, he will need to be careful not to alienate his squad. They overcame Panathinaikos over two legs in the previous round of European qualifiers. However, the less-than-convincing performances and players playing out of position have baffled supporters. He said some players must ‘drop their ego’, but perhaps he should be the one to compromise on his tactics and do so willingly if he wants to succeed in Glasgow. He told Sky Sports: “We need to work out who really wants to be all in and who doesn’t.” Martin has been busy in the transfer window, with the recent arrival of Finnish international Oliver Antman, who arrives from Go Ahead Eagles in a £4m deal, pushing the total to nine signings. The gaffer will hope Antman doesn’t shrink under pressure but grows into a giant in attack. Loyal servant and club captain James Tavernier, who has been at the club for ten years, has been an ever-present in this so-called egotistical environment. Still, question marks remain about his ability to instil a positive culture. Maybe Martin, Tavernier, fresh faces, and player exits can finally push the club in a new direction. Rodgers Needs Firepower After McCowan Bailout Luke McCowan saved Celtic’s blushes with a deflected strike in the last ten minutes of the game against a stubborn St Mirren side at Celtic Park. It was hard to say what was less surprising: Stephen Robinson’s men, unbeaten in last season’s top-six split and fresh off a third consecutive top-half finish, proving they are no pushovers, or McCowan coming off the bench and positively changing the game for the Hoops. The Bhoys started with a party. A rousing rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone rang out, Kris Boyd pleading for Scott Brown to keep talking on Sky Sports so he doesn’t have to hear it. Lisbon Lion John Clark, who passed away in the summer, had a tifo unveiled in his memory. And the club welcomed back 90s legend Paul McStay before he unfurled the league champions’ flag at Celtic Park. Unfortunately, that’s where the shindig faded. The home side struck the woodwork four times and saw a Callum McGregor second-half strike correctly ruled out for handball. It wasn’t until McCowan’s 12-minute cameo that the game came to life. The 27-year-old brought energy and the decisive flourish that Benjamin Nygren and the front three of Yang, Adam Idah, and Daezen Maeda lacked. He had a similar role last year, coming on as a substitute 17 times for Celtic in the league, scoring six goals and assisting seven times for his boyhood club. The narrow 1–0 win means the reigning champions have now won their opening league fixture in 17 of the last 18 seasons. It has been a successful period for the club, but Brendan Rodgers will only continue at Celtic beyond his contract, which expires at the end of the season, if the club continues to develop on and off the park. Rodgers wants attacking reinforcements, but Yang is less than convincing. James Forrest is ageing, and the injured Jota is not expected to return until the new year. Adam Idah continues to blow cold, and Jonjoe Kenny and new signing Shin Yamada are both untested in the league. On BBC’s Sportscene, ex-Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew says the club needs two wingers and a striker, which is a fair assessment based on the manager’s recent comments. Hearts Weather the Wind and Bloom into Title Contenders The Jambos were back in league action after cruising in their League Cup campaign the past few weeks. Even Storm Floris caused chaos across Edinburgh, with Fringe shows cancelled, train services halted, and even the Military Tattoo called off. Still, it couldn’t disrupt Derek McInnes’ men with a 2-0 win over Aberdeen. They had no sympathy for the 650 Aberdeen fans attempting the journey south, or for Dons’ captain Graeme Shinnie, who put the ball into the back of his net in the early stages of the game from a Harry Milne cross. Jambos’ summer signing Stuart Findlay finished the scoring with a brave header past an onrushing Dimitar Mitov. Lawrence Shankland thought he had doubled their advantage in the first half with a wonder strike, which was disallowed for offside in the build-up. Managing his first league game for Hearts against a former club, Derek McInnes told Sky Sports afterwards that “we gave everything.” They will
Our Writers Predict the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership
The William Hill Premiership is looming, with the opening weekend starting with Killie hosting the newly promoted side of Livingston on Saturday and concluding with the blockbuster clash on Monday when Aberdeen visit Hearts. Fresh optimism, big questions and plenty of intrigue await. Will Celtic continue their domestic dominance? Can Hearts, Hibs, or Aberdeen close the Old Firm gap? And who’s facing a scrap at the bottom? The transfer window is still open, and predictions may hinge on late window shenanigans. However, our team of journalists has examined all 12 clubs and offered their early predictions for this season. Aberdeen Callum Hart – 4th I’m tipping them to finish 4th. Cameron Caldwell – 7th Guaranteed European football until January will be a double-edged sword for Jimmy Thelin’s squad. Balancing these demands with the busy domestic calendar will be a struggle. Jack Cranmer – 5th Jimmy Thelin pulled off a shock by guiding Aberdeen to Scottish Cup glory and European group stage qualification. However, that European run could become a burden. The squad is decent, but its depth is questionable. Thursday-Sunday football has hurt clubs like Hearts, and Aberdeen may suffer similarly. Recruitment has been shrewd, but whether it’s enough to maintain a top-four challenge remains to be seen. Mack Kelly – 5th They have had a lot of activity in the transfer window this season, and Thelin is now properly putting his stamp on the squad. I think European football this season will act as a derailer for the Dons and hold them back in the table. That said, I can see the Reds going on a run in the Conference League. Michael Shuel – 5th The Dons have been busy in the transfer market, but losing Jamie McGrath on a free is a blow. Hopefully, their recruits can prove effective. The extension of Alfie Dorrington’s loan is a good move, as he will continue to develop into a top defender. They hope to continue last season’s success, which saw them pick up silverware. Ryan Niven – 5th Inconsistent last season, and with the addition of European football, I feel the Pittodrie club will struggle. Scott Bradley – 5th Despite the historic Scottish Cup win against Celtic last season, we can’t forget the Dons had a poor second half of the season, only managing to win five of their last 26 league games. The Dandies played in Europe under former boss Barry Robson, and they struggled to cope with that Thursday-to-Sunday schedule; the same could happen this season. Celtic Callum Hart – 1st Celtic still seems to be the better team between them and the Rangers; however, I think the gap will be closer this year than last. Cameron Caldwell – 1st While there’s still work to do in the transfer market, Celtic’s established core should be consistent enough to secure their fifth consecutive Scottish Premiership title. Jack Cranmer – 2nd Celtic remain favourites, but a storm may be brewing. Brendan Rodgers’ recent comments hint at dissatisfaction with the club’s backing during the summer window. Nicolas Kühn’s departure is a blow, and while Benjamin Nygren appears a capable replacement, it’s hard to argue he’s an upgrade on an in-form Kühn. If he stays fit, Kieran Tierney will be an improvement on Greg Taylor, but that’s a big ‘if’ across a 50+ game season. Up front, serious concerns remain: Jota won’t be fully fit until late in the campaign, Adam Idah is still unconvincing, Kyogo Furuhashi still hasn’t been truly replaced, and the new options lack the quality Celtic have had in recent years. Rodgers has a track record of third-season stagnation, and if he’s not backed, he could walk. If that happens, chaos could open the door to a Rangers resurgence. Mack Kelly – 1st It will be much tighter at the top end of the table this season, but I think the squad’s quality and experience will deliver the Celtics’ fifth consecutive title by no more than six points. Michael Shuel – 1st With the Rangers experiencing a tactical revolution (or mess, as some could call it) and the mastermind Russell Martin joining, the Celtics should be scared. Not really. It will take time for Rangers to gel, and the Hoops have too much quality in all areas of their squad. Could they do with more wingers now? Sure. But that’ll come. Are there question marks around Adam Idah? Look, he will still get 15-20 goals this season. If that’s what you call a flop (even at a staggering £9m), then so be it. Ryan Niven – 1st With the Rangers being rebuilt, Celtic will bring home another title. However, their lack of transfer business so far makes me believe it’ll be a closer title race than last season. Scott Bradley – 2nd Despite winning a double last season, Brendan Rodgers’ men have dropped in form and standards over the last few months. There doesn’t seem to be a real buzz and excitement surrounding the Scottish champions at this moment in time, and the lack of transfer business is a concern, especially amongst the Celtic faithful. I believe this will be Rodgers’ last season, and if he loses the first Old Firm game at Ibrox, the alarm bells will start ringing. Dundee Callum Hart – 12th After Dundee’s poor start to the campaign, I think it’ll continue into the league season. Cameron Caldwell – 12th Steven Pressley hasn’t been a manager since 2019. This lack of recent experience could prove problematic for a Dundee team that only narrowly avoided relegation last year. Jack Cranmer – 12th I don’t want to be too harsh on Steven Pressley; he’s done his homework at Brentford, but alarm bells are already ringing. Losses to Airdrieonians and Alloa in the League Cup, plus a narrow win over Lowland League Bonnyrigg Rose, don’t inspire confidence. Their recruitment, mainly from English lower leagues and loans from Brentford youth, looks risky. Pressley’s man-management has also been questioned, and losing Josh Mulligan and Lyall Cameron won’t help. If results don’t pick up soon, the
Hibs 1–2 Midtjylland: Extra-Time Agony Ends Europa Hopes at Easter Road
Hibernian faced Danish Superliga side FC Midtjylland in a crunch Europa League qualifying second leg in Edinburgh this evening. The Hibees went into the match level after a credible 1–1 draw in Herning last week and looked to navigate their way into the third qualifying round. Both sides looking to book advance and earn a tie with Norwegian side Fredrikstad. The Danes had put six past Sønderjyske on Monday, ahead of the tie and were looking to continue that form and silence a sold-out Easter Road. Head coach David Gray named an unchanged side from last week’s first leg. They remained without Lewis Miller, who looks set to head south to Blackburn. Scotland international Grant Hanley was in attendance, rumoured to be the Australian’s replacement in the Hibs backline. First Half The visitors kicked things off shooting toward the Hibernian Block Seven Ultras in the Famous Five Stand. The home crowd were in full voice from the outset, creating a hectic and formidable atmosphere for the four-time Danish champions. Their efforts would pay off, with the hosts creating the early chances and twice forcing Jonas Lössl into saves. Hibs had the ball in the net after just 15 minutes, however the assistant’s flag denied them a memorable early breakthrough. Both sides traded blows for the remainder of the opening half, with Hibs carving out a few promising opportunities. Midtjylland were limited to chances only through some nervy Hibs defending and efforts from range. Stopper Jordan Smith pulled off solid stops and Warren O’Hora making a goal-denying block. It was level at the interval, with everything still to play for as the hosts looked to join fellow Scottish sides Rangers and Dundee United in the next round of European qualification. Second Half The offside rule that had denied Hibs in the first half came to their rescue early in the second. Franculino Djú broke through on the right-hand side of the area and slotted past Smith, but this time it was VAR, not the assistant’s flag, that ruled the opener out and kept the tie level. Smith continued to be the busier of the two keepers in the second half, making multiple stops, while Lössl was reduced to a near spectator. Thomas Thomasberg’s side dominated the second period, but a combination of Smith’s heroics and wasteful finishing kept them from taking the lead. Djú, in particular, will be kicking himself, the Bissau-Guinean striker rounded Smith midway through the half but hesitated, allowing Jack Iredale to nip in and clear before he could slot home. Hibs thought they had won it right at the death when captain Martin Boyle found himself racing through on goal in stoppage time. The Hibs legend squared it to substitute Nicky Cadden for a simple tap-in, but once again the offside ruling came into play to cancel out the would-be opener. And so it remained 0–0. With no away goals rule in European competition anymore, the tie headed into extra time. Extra Time With legs tiring and supporters’ anxiety levels sky-high, the game carried on into extra time here in Leith, both sides desperately searching for a winner. The visitors looked to have found it through Chilean midfielder Darío Osorio, whose long-range strike finally beat the outstanding Smith to send the Danish side on course to face Norwegian outfit Fredrikstad. But Hibs struck back right on the cusp of the extra-time interval, with Rocky Bushiri cementing his place as a Hibs hero by finding the crucial equaliser when his side needed it most. The big central defender wheeled away toward the Main Stand, sparking wild celebrations from all four sides of a packed Easter Road. Both sides would have chances at the death, but nerves and fatigue would finally get to Hibs, a cross from the wide right was turned in spectacularly by Júnior Brumado. Inside the penalty area the unmarked Brazilian got his back down and a great connection on the ball to send his team through to the next round. What’s Next? Midtjylland advance to the next round to face Fredrikstad, while Gray’s men must now regroup for a shot at the UEFA Conference League. They will travel to Belgrade to take on FK Partizan in what promises to be an intimidating affair. The Serbians advanced from their own second-round qualifier with a 6–0 aggregate win over Ukrainian side FC Oleksandriya. Att: 19,556
SFA Approves Tier 5 Restructure from 2026/27
The Scottish FA membership has officially approved a resolution to restructure the fifth tier of Scottish football. This move will see the current Lowland League replaced by two new regional divisions: the Lowland League East and Lowland League West. These changes will take effect from the beginning of the 2026/27 season and mark a significant overhaul of the national football pyramid. The revamped Tier 5 structure will feature the two new Lowland Leagues operating alongside the existing Highland League, creating a three-league fifth tier. Each Lowland League will comprise 16 teams, with promotion and relegation systems linked to the surrounding non-league structures. While the restructure will not come into force until the 2026/27 campaign, the upcoming 2025/26 season will act as a transition year, particularly for clubs in the West of Scotland Football League (WoSFL). A minimum of eight WoSFL clubs could be promoted to the new Lowland League West at the end of the campaign, with no teams relegated from any WoSFL division, as confirmed at the league’s AGM before the end of last season. Promotion eligibility is also contingent on Scottish FA licensing, with only clubs holding an SFA Membership Licence able to be promoted to Tier 5. From 2026/27 onwards, the new Tier 5 setup will see each Lowland League operate with promotion and relegation to and from their respective regional leagues, such as the WoSFL and East of Scotland League. The three champions of the Highland League, Lowland League East, and Lowland League West will enter a round-robin play-off. The winner of that mini-league will then face the bottom club in SPFL League 2 in a two-legged tie for a place in the professional leagues. At the other end, one team will be relegated from each Lowland League annually, with the corresponding regional champion replacing them, again, subject to licensing.
