Attention has focussed on the defence as Celtic’s third season under Rodgers splutters along. Poor squad management, injuries, suspensions and therefore a lack of settled partnerships have all contributed. But is the defence getting the protection it needs? With the 20-year-old Kouassi a peripheral figure within the squad, and Bitton out injured since February, the … [continue reading]
Brown
Possession Stats Confirm Ajer Most Effective Defender
Rodgers is big on possession and wearing down the opposition patiently allied to a high press when possession is lost. Who best fits that approach based on last season’s data? The Glossary keeps things simple and never gives the ball away. I will look at each position (broadly) as to compare centre backs to wingers … [continue reading]
The King and the Pretender
On a frosty surface, Celtic and Hibernian served up an exhilarating second half at Easter Road to ultimately share the points. Moans and groans about letting leads slip, failing to take chances and defensive howlers? Sure, but sometimes the sheer entertainment leaves a smile of your face. In the middle of it all, Brown and … [continue reading]
The Engine Room
The Engine Room is subsidiary to a review of season 16/17, and is the fifth chapter. Here I will consider the central midfield. This includes three distinct roles: Defensive or holding central midfielder – Bitton or Brown, and possibly Kouassi Box to box central midfielder – Armstrong or McGregor Classic Number 10 – Rogic … [continue reading]
Great Scott 2.0
Craig Fowler of ‘The Scotsman’ wrote an entertaining article on the 17 most improved footballers in Scotland this season. Our own Stuart Armstrong was at number one and you can read why here (The Renaissance Man?). At number two was the five (point ninety-nine!) in a row captain Scott Brown. Craig describes Brown’s efforts thus … [continue reading]
Running To Stand Still
The Science of Fitness There is no doubt conditioning a modern athlete to play football is a complex business. Sports science continues to evolve, and Celtic as a club embrace the most modern thinking and facilities. That is not to say what Celtic do is always right. There are as many opinions as sports scientists. … [continue reading]