Celtic chase strikers and defensive cover under O’Neill
On 16 January highlights include a 4-4 at Hibs in 1926 and a 1-0 win at Aberdeen in 2005 via a deflected Chris Sutton goal, plus notable matches from 1954, 1960 and 1965.
Celtic’s Ben Summers joins Ayr United on loan with a 2-year permanent deal to follow, linking up with Scott Brown. Attacker, 21, leaves to pursue first-team football.
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler confirms Evan Ferguson will remain on loan at Roma for the season, ending Celtic hopes of a recall move for the striker.
Celtic prepare a loan move for Eintracht Frankfurt’s 22-year-old centre-back Aurèle Amenda. No offer yet, player wants to leave. Defensive cover sought ahead of Hearts as CCV remains out.
Ex-Celtic midfielder Nir Bitton, 34, becomes player-manager at Ashdod alongside Alon Hazan after Haim Silvas exits. The 18-trophy Hoops stalwart starts coaching while still playing.
O’Neill targets two strikers before Hearts away, rules out Callum Wilson due to wages, eyes Franko Kovacevic, open to Scottish market and loans, and wants reinforcements across defence, midfield and wings.
Celtic hold talks with Leeds over a loan for Joel Piroe, willing to cover £50k wages. Leeds yet to decide, with 49ers link noted. Striker search remains priority under Martin O’Neill.
Liam Scales details struggles in Wilfried Nancy’s back three role, citing fatigue and reduced quality. Under O’Neill’s back four, Celtic record clean sheets and Scales shines again.
Chris Sutton blasts Celtic’s board, claiming O’Neill is left to ‘scramble’ transfers and front the club, calling the window handling amateurish and urging full backing for the manager.
Pundits debate Celtic’s striker hunt: names floated include Franculino Dju, David Fofana, Kieron Bowie and a wildcard Tynecastle bid. Consensus is Celtic must act decisively.
SFA release VAR audio on Julian Araujo’s tackle v Dundee United. Willie Collum says contact was on the boot, ‘high-end reckless’ but not endangering an opponent, so yellow card stands in 4-0 win.
