Scottish football is buzzing with transfer talk! Celtic’s Maeda wants out, Rangers’ Raskin gets a second chance, and intriguing recruitment strategies are revealed. Plus, updates on new signings and managerial moves.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is set for crucial discussions with striker Daizen Maeda following the player's public expression of a desire to leave the Scottish champions. The situation presents a challenge for Rodgers as he seeks to understand Maeda's motivations and assess the potential impact of his departure on the team's attacking options.
Maeda has been a key figure for Celtic since joining the club, contributing significantly with his goals and work rate. However, his recent comments have sparked speculation about his future, with several clubs potentially interested in securing his services. Rodgers will aim to clarify Maeda's stance and determine whether a move is in the best interest of both the player and the club.
Meanwhile, at Rangers, midfielder Nicolas Raskin is poised to return to first-team training after productive talks with manager Russell Martin. Raskin had found himself on the periphery of the squad, but Martin has assured him of an opportunity to regain his place in the starting lineup. The Rangers boss emphasized that Raskin will need to demonstrate his commitment and quality in training to earn a regular spot in the team.
The Scottish Sun reports that a leaked document has revealed a fascinating insight into the recruitment strategies of clubs with shared ownership, specifically Rangers and Leeds United. The document highlights the importance placed on players' ability to score headers from set-pieces as a key metric in potential signings. This could explain Rangers' recent emphasis on acquiring players with significant height and aerial prowess during the summer transfer window.
Celtic's newest addition, Tunisian winger Sebastian Tounekti, is expected to bring a unique blend of toughness and skill to the team. Having grown up playing on the frozen pitches of Tromso, Tounekti has developed a resilience that will serve him well in the demanding environment of Scottish football. His upbringing has instilled in him a mental fortitude that will be invaluable as he adapts to life at Celtic.
St. Johnstone manager Simo Valakari has revealed that data analysis and conversations played a pivotal role in the club's decision to sign winger Jannik Wanner from Livingston. Valakari emphasized the importance of utilizing data-driven insights to identify players who can enhance the team's performance. Wanner's signing is seen as a strategic move to add creativity and attacking threat to the St. Johnstone squad.
Former Hibernian forward Tam McManus expressed his surprise that Kieron Bowie did not feature for Scotland during the recent World Cup qualifiers. However, McManus admitted to being relieved, as he feared an injury to Bowie would have derailed Hibs' season. McManus believes Bowie has the potential to become a valuable asset for Hibernian, and his absence from international duty will allow him to focus on his club commitments.
Hearts defender Craig Halkett has urged his teammates to block out external talk of a potential Scottish Premiership title challenge and concentrate on improving their recent record against Rangers. Halkett acknowledged the excitement surrounding Hearts' strong start to the season but stressed the importance of maintaining focus and avoiding complacency. He believes a positive result against Rangers is crucial to building momentum and achieving their goals.
Finally, former Hibernian manager Nick Montgomery has reunited with Ange Postecoglou, joining him as a coach at Nottingham Forest. Montgomery previously worked under Postecoglou at Celtic and is eager to continue his development under the guidance of the highly respected Australian manager. This move represents a significant step forward in Montgomery's coaching career.
