Celtic backed by SFA over Hearts finish as O’Neill weighs future
O’Neill challenges Tony Bloom’s claim Hearts players were ‘assaulted’ in Celtic Park invasion, saying it is unproven but would be serious if verified. Focus turns to Dunfermline in the cup final.
Ex-Birmingham striker Kevin Phillips urges Kyogo to move on and consider Celtic after a poor season and shoulder surgery. Celtic also linked with Bodo/Glimt striker Kasper Høgh, but his club plan to keep him.
Dunfermline boss Neil Lennon bristles at ‘disrespect’ before facing Celtic in the Scottish Cup final, citing wins over Hibs and Aberdeen and insisting his underdogs can shock the champions.
Celtic pay tribute to former defender-midfielder Mike Galloway, Scottish Cup winner in 1990 and League Cup winner in 1993, who has died aged 60.
Celtic open talks with a club and agents over a ‘brilliant’ South American playmaker as summer recruitment begins.
Ryan Stevenson condemns the Celtic Park pitch invasion, backs Hearts’ stance, says SFA audio ends ‘premature’ row, and argues it was a dark day for Celtic alone, not Scottish football.
O’Neill changed his phone after abuse, calls Tony Bloom’s player assault claim ‘irresponsible’ unless proven. Notes pitch cleared in under 3 minutes and SFA audio shows Derek McInnes agreed to finish.
O’Neill, 74, expects post-final talks with Dermot Desmond on Celtic job. Despite title win, he questions energy for a rebuild with the squad back on 6/26 and competition from Hearts and Rangers.
SFA publish audio backing Don Robertson ending Celtic 3-1 Hearts as fans invaded. Clock showed 98:07, above minimum added time. Dialogue cites Hearts coach concerns over safety, decision upheld.
Celtic and Wolves are tracking Spurs midfielder Alfie Devine. Preston hold a £4.5m option after his strong loan, but competition could sway the 21-year-old.
Burnley step up interest in Wales boss Craig Bellamy, who is on Celtic’s shortlist if O’Neill steps aside. Robbie Keane also admired. Askou joins Toulouse. Release fee around £700k reported.
