Celtic penalty backed by SFA as Nicholson disputes call
Celtic Park is teased for a “historic” club occasion on Friday 16 May, with supporters primed for a significant announcement or ceremony at Paradise.
Motherwell’s Sam Nicholson insists the ball “categorically” did not hit his hand for Celtic’s late VAR penalty in the 3-2 win, saying some Celtic players told him “that’s crazy” after the decision.
Celtic have received a boost in their search to replace the retired Kasper Schmeichel, with a £1m target confirming summer transfer plans.
Steve Clarke cites 74-year-old Martin O’Neill’s Double at Celtic as inspiration to keep evolving Scotland through to 2030, aiming to progress from the World Cup group.
SFA refereeing chief Willie Collum backs Celtic’s stoppage-time handball penalty at Motherwell, citing Sam Nicholson’s arm being in an unnatural position, and says Hearts should have had a penalty at Fir Park.
Celtic are reportedly ready to open talks to sign an £8.5m Premier League target, with keeping Daizen Maeda also highlighted as a key summer challenge.
Chris Sutton warns Celtic are losing ground on the manager and recruitment fronts, with a major squad overhaul looming and key players such as Maeda, Engels, Johnston and Hatate linked with moves.
From 1892 to 2008, Celtic mark 16 April with key wins: Quinn’s 1904 hat-trick v Rangers, the 1914 double clincher, 1927 cup win over East Fife, and Nakamura’s screamer before Vennegoor’s 90th-minute 2008 derby winner.
Dick Advocaat hails Martin O’Neill’s transformative impact at Celtic while reflecting on his Rangers era as he returns to Hampden with Curacao for a Scotland friendly.
Green Brigade say Celtic have barred two members from season-ticket renewal over “vexatious” AGM-related allegations, calling the timing cynical after their return was hailed during the Double run-in.
Celtic remain keen on Frosinone winger Farès Ghedjemis after a failed January move. He scored 15 goals in Serie B and is now valued around €15m, with contacts likely to be re-opened.
Willie Collum defends only booking Alistair Johnston for a tackle on Mikey Moore in the Rangers match, citing glancing contact and confirming VAR supported a yellow for reckless, not serious foul play.
