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hi
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Goog luck to the Viewpark Bhoy.
Jinky would be very pleased for you.
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We is every body?
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WG
never went to many because the Young Head boys were teddy boys and liked songs by matchbox and the polecats.
we are the mods
Secret Affair and the Purple hearts (not heroes) were mine
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Could become the most successful Celtic captain since Billy McNeill!
Congratulations "Big Mick"
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whoooosh> yo peeps what gives???
well done stephen with a p on the captaincy.....
the futures bright, the futures green an white....
wb noel
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TMC/Tontine Tim (from last thread),
having left "God's Little Acre" (the Renton) for Dumbarton, and then moved out to Balloch, I feel fully qualified to talk of the Leven Valley as a whole.....
And unfortunately I can think of very little to say!!
I do think that The Renton must be THE place to live now, as it has neither a bookies, a charity shop or a card shop....although it does have a hairdressers....
Well done to Mr McManus for his promotion to captain, but I hope it's not too long before he is usurped by big JFK!!
Hail hail.
G.
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Arthur Lee -
my musical tastes remain now as then. The Bronx was a Ted all right, crepes n drapes.
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What about vice?
FOr when McManus is suspended and injured? Boruc? Kennedy?
I dunno.
He wasnt my first choice for the Captincy but hopefully he can fill the vast boots (not dainty Italian stiletos that Estadio has been after) required for the Celtic captincy.
Well done Mick
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WonderingGemmell :- The champions elect are playing FK Zeta tonight in the start of what I'm sure will be a long and successful season :-)
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Yet another Celtic Captain for Lanarkshire
ho hum.... dumbartonshire...
WejustGiveandgivetoTheCause
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What about Jacie Mac? was he not captain before Lenny....???
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WG,
touche...
G.
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Winning the CQN open
Winning the lottery
Having a child
Captaining Celtic
That is the reverse order of any sane man's 'greatest achievements possible in life' list.
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yoshimi -
I'm up for Vice
dontbratt/edward -
I've never heard of any of these teams. Is this real football or are we still playing friendlies ? Zeta Jones of Monty Finnieston?
C'mon the C'Montygreenyins.
WorldwideGlobal
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blantyre...men cant have kids..
to paraphrase..wheres the fetus gonna gestate? in a box?? :-)
surely the andy cole rumour is a month too early.....oooh 31st august..must book a night off for that one !!
aldowithfreesetanta-having an extralargevirginpackage!
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Is it just me who thinks that he shouldn't have been given a 4 year deal nevermind been made captain?
Certainly not captain material imo, balde and Kennedy should our centre half pairing this season.
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Yoshimi
I think we should name two vice-captains. Barcelona list both Xavi and Ronaldinho as official vice-captains behind Puxi Puyol. I don't know if that's pertained for a while or if it's the result of Puyol's injury, but I like it.
So, looking for direct equivalents, that means our vice-captains should be … who?
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I feel a Victoria Zizkov moment coming on.
I hate playing eastern european teams especially ones beginning with A.
I must say the 14/1 on at Paddy Power for Zeta-Jones looks tempting.
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Congratulations Stephen and good luck. I'm sure you will do a great job.
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Celtic post war captains
Bobby Evans
BJ
Bertie Peacock
Jim Kennedy
Dunky McKay?
Sean Fallon?
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dunfydave, Paul Lambert remained club captain while he was not playing. Jackie wore the armband in his absence.
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BlantyreKev from the last thread is this the clip
Shoes
Well done Stephen
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Celtic_First
I like that idea, so going with the idea of two, Id go for Boruc and Brown maybe, or perhaps Kennedy?
Mind you if its direct equivelnts your going for there that would surely make it McGeady and Donati.
Maybe not just yet ay?
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Liam, it may just be you.
Good to see one of our own youth products getting the highest accolade and showing the other kids what can be achieved if you stay and play with our club.
As for 4 years. I take it you would have punted him ? We'll have to differ on that one. Centre-halfs don't "mature" until they hit 26/27, so we've bought a bit of time. I happen to think he'll do a grand job for us. He's done fine for us so far. Like every other player he's not infallible , but he has contributed some valuable goals to the cause in the last 2 years.
Hail Hail !
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Estadio...
I reckon honesty IS the best policy. Even in this instance.
BTW nice story from yesterday, didn't realise you were a Coatbrig lad too. Brought back memories for me too. My maw is from the Olds Monkland as well... Bet she knows who Helen Rafferty is and her whereabouts... Must ask her! You know what maws are like!
Paul, not only is Stephen McManus the obvious choice, he is the ONLY choice, in my very humble opinion, of course!
Well done Big Mick!
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I go along with the idea that McManus knows all about Celtic, and is therefore a good shout for Captain, given the lack of Options.
What does, however, bother me about it is I don't think he's good enough to be a guaranteed Starter. He's a decent enough squad player, but I just don't rate him very highly as a defender.
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Arthur Lee
Secret Affair - now you're talking ! Went to see Iain Page and the Affair at the cavern in Liverpool 2 years ago - still class.
On a more relevant note, would the doubters please give young Stephen their full backing instead of moaning ? The boys only been in the team less than 2 years and for me shows a level of maturity that you rarely see in a centre back his age. He will only get better.
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Anyone any ideas how I can get through to the ticket office ?? Been trying 0871 226 1888 since yesterday at 10am with no luck.
Did not get into the Parma game,had to go to the ticket office to get this resolved, has anyone heard if this has been resolved for the Killie game ?
The Parma game was included in the Season ticket YES ?? Heard a rumour this was not included thus the confusion over getting in
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All about opinions antibes, yes i'd have punted him because like Matt says he's maybe a half decent squad player, but certainly not a a regular starter nevermind captain. Dives in to quickly for my liking and his reading of the game is suspect to say the least.
But we'll have to disagree on this one.
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Great news re big Mick - that means its not going to be Stephen Pressley, which I was concerned about. John Kennedy as vice captain would also be good. However with these 2 now set to start the season as first choices for the centre half positions, I wonder where that leaves Darren O'Dea, Gary Caldwell, Big Bobo, Stephen Pressley and Adam Virgo. On the bench I suppose with Tommy G, Jiri Jarosik, Evander Sno, Derek Riordan etc. At least they wont be lonely.
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WelshGlamourpuss-we'll sound find out if it is real football,if the Bhoys of the BlackMountainSide sneak away from G51 with a result.
Are PaddyPower offering any odds on M.Darcheville seeing the Carte Rouge?He will get in a tangle with a Zeton,words will be exchanged[and given the history of the 'Yugoslavians'in these incidents]one or two racial epiphets will be used.Cue red mist and the early bath..
You read it here first
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'This is the Time.
The time for action
The time to be seen
This is the time for action
Time, to, be seen'
Well done Cptn Mick, looking forward to you picking up the silverware.
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I see the apointment of mick as a mixed blessing. He has the media profile of a captain but on the downside i don't rate him as a CH.
Only my opinion but he should not be an automatic choice if we invest as we should in a quality CH. I would see balde and the new CH as our best pairing.
Balde is the best defender at CP but finances dictate we need to punt him.
If we do not sign a new CH then i would be very dispointed.
Anyway goodluck Mick this may be the spur you need, who knows.
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gweedoreboy 'Balde is the best defender at CP but finances dictate we need to punt him.'
Maybe we should get onto PLG then, and see if we can get 1.8 Million for him... :-)
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sdstim,
Secret Affair?? I think I have the single somewhere....
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I'm delighted with Stephen as Captain, for me he was the only choice.
I do wonder how opinion can be so divided on him, I rate him very highly. He has been our best defender by some considerable distance since he made his debut and in Strachan's 1st season guided Bobo through games - not the other way about!
He was exceptional in the Champions League last season, particulary Man Utd at Celtic Park and the two legs against AC Milan. I know he was criticised for his defending against Kaka but I'd invite everyone to find me a defender who has stopped Kaka doing that over the last 18 months (particularly after 90 odd minutes).
I know we all long to see JK in defence but if we're being honest JK shone brightly and briefly and has along way to go before he reaches the level of consistency that Stephen McManus has shown. I'll bet JK would be the first to admit this.
Maybe with 1 prudent defensive signing we could be well served for 10 years.
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captain picard
captain pugwash
captain caveman
captain beefheart
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thismancraig, your point about JFK is valid, but Kennedy is 1 year younger than Mick, yet broke into the first Team 2 years earlier.
Does that not say how badly Mick was rated by the Club's manamgement, that even while we were desperate for a new Centreback (under MON), he couldn't force his way into the Team? Strachan didn't give Mick a chance in his first pre-season, either, prefering Balde and Varga (which surely says it all). :-s
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Definately going to get Spiers new book , from what i`ve read in last couple of days it will be a book about Rangers which none of them will want to read.
How ironic it would be to have a book on Rangers read by all Celtic fans.
I`m sure the best is yet to come when he gets onto the topic of Uefa`s sensuring over their singing.
The mint in the interview which was all over the gutter press on sunday suggested that the debt had risen to £12M ie doubled ,when in fact it had spiralled to over £16M ....mendacity(surely not) , spin or just incompetence ...either way things are going well on the business front down Darnel way
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Stephen McManus has been a solid player for us & is a great ambassador for the club. However i would've preferred to see Artur Boruc get the nod as i feel he has the personality, has the respect of his own dressing room & is feared by the opposition.
This is just a personal thing with me & i know that McStay, Lambert & McNamara were hardly roaring lions as Captains. I just feel that this season in particular that we are going to face such an aggressive threat from Rangers that we will need an edge over our rivals when we are going to places like Greyskull & Swinecastle
That doesn't sway my support for Stephen who i'm sure will do well as Captain
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greenlion2
not the clip but thanks
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Gordon_J
Indeed, there was a live version on an EP if I remember well, always prefered that one. Catchy tune even for a Metalhead like me:))
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matt
I think that says alot more about the previous management than it does about Stephen McManus - he never played at centre half for the first team under Martin O'Neill.
Same thing could be said of Shaun Maloney under Martin O'Neill, with Gordon Strachan initially signing Aliadiere before realising what a player he had.
For young players it's not just about ability but about getting a break.
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Radio 2
have just played the Wolf Tones
no kidding
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Now THIS is funny-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jg5HsG7AN1Y
Look out for a furure version featuring The Mint if things go belly-up this year.
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I've read umpteen posts on here calling for us to go out and buy another centre half, have yet to read one post that suggests what we should do with the centre half suprplus - some 6 or 7 - that we already have. It's as if that somehow, that doesn't matter, regardless of how many centre halfs we have, or strikers, we just go out keep buying more of them until we eventually get one that everyone's happy with. Aahh, if only life were that simple.
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To all the McManus doubters out there - why do you think our manager has selected him so often over the past two successful seasons?
Further, what makes you qualified to judge someone's reading of the game?? Is this a qualification all of us punters can acquire?
#8
who isn't a professional football player or manager so is happy to go with the judgement of the guy who is....
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arthur lee> tell me it wasnt 'uncle nobbys steamboat!
DBBIA> quality!!!
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TMC,re the "soccer circus",thanks.
was completely unaware of it's existence,or Keegan's involvement in it.
Well done to Stephen McManus,hope it means a long term reltionship between himself and the club.
Unlike some others,although I don't rate him as a world class centre half,yet,I do happen to think that he is our best centre half.
And usually I would prefer the captaincy to come from that area.
Having said that,I get the feeling that if the decision didn't have to be made until next year,it may well have gone to someone a little further up the field.
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Report on Sky's website that we are stepping up our chase for Mendy from PSG, whilst Sochaux are chasing a dnother defender from PSG.
Putting 2 and 2 together here but doesn't N'Daw play with Sochaux, are they getting his replacement ready? I know Lyon were said to be keen on him as well.
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While I obviously hope he does well, Stephen MacManus would not be my choice for captain. I wouldn't even have him as a first choice CH.
To answer those who are wondering how we can afford another CH when we have so many already, all I have to say is that we need QUALITY in that position, which we don't yet have, although Kennedy and O'Dea might become class. They are not as yet. I know it will be difficult to shift the likes of Bobo but that does not mean that we should be content to play who we have just because they are the ones on the books. We need better.
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Itz, I have previously considered our glut of Centrehalves:
I see all this talk of Centrehalves earlier today, so here's a wee article I wrote elsewhere a couple of weeks ago.
Right, let me talk through my perception of our Centrehalves.
I stay on the Continent, and often only get to see Highlights of games, but as most of the guys we have have been around for a while, I can at least pass my Judgement.
We'll go through this alphabetically.
Baldé. He's a decent defender, but prone to be a bit rash in the challenge. His distribution skills are nil, but that's not really unusual amongst our Centrebacks. If he goes into a challenge, he'll get his man. To my mind, decent backup, but not at a reported 28k, unfortunately.
Caldwell. Seriously, apart from his nightmare in Lisbon, has he really had a bad game for us at Centrehalf (he certainly isn't a rightback, in any case)? As far as I could see, at the time he got injured last year, he was picking up some grudgingly good reports. He's maybe one I feel could develop into a player, given time, but he won't get that at Celtic. Might be worth keeping as backup, though.
Kennedy. I was at that game at the Nou Camp, and I was really excited by him as a Prospect, and certainly if he can regain the kind of form he had 3 years ago, I'd have him striaght in the Team. I also feel a certain empathy to him as I've had the same Knee Op. However, to Put him forward as the Cure to all our defensive problems is a big ask. I fear it'll take him the best part of 6 months being involved with the first team again till we know if he'll ever be the Player he could have been. I'd love to see him involved at first Team level this Season, though probably not as a Starter every week. Initially, anyway.
McManus. He's rash in the challenge, his Positional skills are poor, his distribution is woeful. He dosen't even have Bobo's presence when making challenges, so for me he has no positive aspects to bring to our Central defence (goalscoring isn't a defensive aspect). The fact he's a year older than Kennedy, but didn't break into the first team squad till two years later says it all. Personally, I'd punt him at the first opportunity.
O'Dea. Darren's probably the one of our CBs I've seen the least of, but what I have seen of him, I've generally liked. He appears to have a cool head, and can at least complete a 5 yard pass. Definately a keeper.
Pressley. Let's get one thing clear, Pressley is going nowhere this Summer. Last December, when he was Clubless, he was offered an 18 month deal with us, or a 6 month deal with Charlton, and he came to us for job security as his wife was heavily pregnant. He didn't want to uproot and move then, no way he'll want to now. As to him as a Player, most of what I've seen of him over the years has been for Scotland, alongside some donkey called Weir. From that point of view, I do think he's probably our best Centreback at Organising, and coaxing the younger players through games. He probably dosen't have the legs anymore, though, but I seriously wouldn't have a problem with him being a backup, maybe involved with Coaching.
Virgo. Actually, I've seen even less of him than O'Dea, so no comment.
So, in summary, we've got a decent couple of Centrehalves there, but none of them leap out at me at this moment in time as definite first team guaranteed start material. I've been decrying our lack of Defensive cover for 5 years now, at I'm still looking for 1 top quality Centrehalf who could be our rock at the back.
I'm still not sure who I'd play in Central defence next week for the big kickoff, but I'd rather have someone who wasn't too rash in the tackle.
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aldo
no it wasnt that one
it was the one about sending certain people home.
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Of the current squad there really wasn't anyone else who could be considered. Kinda sad really.
I think WGS sees a central defensive partnership of Mick and JFK for the next few years. Hopefully both will mature into great defenders - they're not there yet.
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Matt
I agree with your thoughts on Caldwell in there and think he and McManus are the best pairing at the club but I need to take issue with your assessment of McManus.
When has his rashness in the challenge cost us? If he was so rash wouldn't he have hoofed Kaka in Milan?
As I said I rate him and don't want this to become a 'he's good at this / no he isn't' debate but I really think he gets a bad press from some people.
I think Bobo is mythically strong in presence, always struck me as too gentle a giant to be truly intimidating.
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Parkheadcumsalford
The manager has a budget. He has chosen where to spend his money to improve his team. He is evidently happy with the quality available to him in the centre half position.
Personally, I would like to see Danny Alves replace Wilson, Cannavaro repalce Pressley, Clichy replace Naylor, Modric replace McGeady, Berbatov replace JVoH.......and so on
We have a finite budget, the manager spends the budget. If you don't rate the guys the manager picks then call the manager on it.
#8
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Too rash in the tackle??
Big Mick has been sent off only once in over 80 games over the past two seasons.
Please also provide a few examples as to when his rashness in the tackle has cost us games.
#8
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Liam and Varga,
I too would agree that Stephen McManus should not have been made captain. This is purely from a footballing perspective as I'm believe he is too slow and lacks positional awareness to be playing for celtic and hence should not be captain.
However, who else in the team could be captain? I feel, in time, Scott brown will be the ideal candidate out of the players we currently have who are playing well. On a personality level JVoH could also be captain but he is currently lacking in form and also should not be considered a dead cert for a starting position.
Perhaps it is only because of his personality SMc has been chosen, but if this is the case is Gordon Strachan not contradicting himself? I'm sure he was quoted a few weeks back as saying (please correct me if I’m wrong) that a captain must have the correct personality, footballing skills along with various other attributes. If this is the case then it worries me that he sees SMc as a proficient centre half. Time will tell if Gordon Strachan has made the correct decision, i hope both he and Stephen McManus prove me wrong for the sake of our great club.
D_D
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Despite the disagreements on here about our new captain's abilities, I think he was the obvious choice as the manager rates him highly and, let's face it, his is the only opinion that really counts.
Prior to Neil Lennon becoming captain I always considered him so. He just wasn't wearing the armband at the time.
This year,I believe Scott Brown will be captain without the armband.
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It strikes me that having a captain is more trouble than it's worth. It boxes you into a corner in that you have to play him but other taking part in tossing the coin what does he actually do ?
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spirit of arthur... context please?
Aldo, Uncle Nobby, the memories. Knowing Radio 2's eagerness to embrace new and disparate audiences, my money suggests they were singing about a large hat.
Gweedore, finances are nothing to do with punting Bobo. He played six league games last season. He was injured lots, but spent more time on the bench when fit than on the field.
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Danny-if he's BFerguson he gets the manager the sack;}
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Excellent news.
McManus more than deserving of a new deal and the captaincy. Now watch him step up a level. Its amazing what things you can do when people believe in you.
He understands what it means to be Celtic captain , knows the club inside out , He'll spill blood for the cause and has a massive desire and determination to succeed. At only 24 he is still learning and will get even better.
No better man for the job. I am delighted as I am a big fan of his.
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Paul it was in a discussion about the troops pulling out of the North and they played Go on Home british soldiers while interviewing a Scottish Soldier. I am listening to the show now on the replay function on Radio 2.
Seemingly our friend on FF are up in arms...
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Some good points made so far about our new Captain. Allow me to add my tuppence worth.
Stephen may well be far from the finished article but he is still very young playing in a position where most hit their peak in their late twenties.
Of the players available he would be my choice for Captain.
It is easy to say we should buy a quality CH but I can't think of many better then we have who are quality, have CL experience, are avalable, in budget and willing to come to Celtic.
It is always easy to se we could have better, but I think it would say more for us as a support to get behind our new Captain and inspire him to be the best he can be.
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I'm really disapointed at the response to McManus gaining the captaincy. I'd back him on his ability and I think Strachan has earned the right to be trusted on this, it's obviously not a whim. I think that the captain has to really know Celtic. I think that rules out Naka, Boruc, JVoH and Brown at this stage. I'd walk across broken glass to see JFK realise his potential, but there's no guarantees and he's got enough to be focused on in recovering to the heights of his pre-injury form.
What's all this about Balde? I thin he's the answer to our CB problems in the same way as Gravesen is our midfield messiah. It's just not true. He was a legend in O'Neil's team but the style has changed too much for him. He almost never is beaten in the air, but he almost never finds a team mate with his cleared header. Note McManus's cushioned header to Donati on Sunday as the start of a celtic attack rather than a temporary reprieve. Sure I'd love Maldini or Canavaro, but meantime I look forward to seeing Stephen McManus leading celtic with hope in my heart.
/S
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From Rangers web site:
"The net book value of the playing squad as at 30 June 2007 was £9.9m (2006 - £8.5m).
"Net debt at the year end stood at £16.5m (2006 - £5.9m). The increase in the net debt position from last year primarily reflects the trading loss in the period, working capital movements, investment in the playing squad, and costs associated with the exit from the Club's retail operations."
Wonder what the net book value of our squad is? More than £9.9M I would bet.
Did Rangers ever settle the Tribunals on the TUPE of staff to JJB? Is that the cost referred to?
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Do you think it adds pressure to Stephen McManus game....knowing that we are going for 3 in a row and then 4, 5, 6, etc etc etc
I think he is an honest guy who will really put his head where it hurts wearing the hoops.....I don't think he's anywhere near as effective a player at CB than BOBO has been in the past but it seems Balde's time has been and gone and our manager obviously sees the team being based upon Stephen's leadership. He's club captain and I will back him 100%
I personally don't mind who captains the side as long as I see commitment, real desire to win and ultimately a successful team....
Hail Hail !!!
Oh and bring on the challengers \ and the cardigan's mob....who want a tilt at our SPL champions title....we won't give it up without a helluva fight.
I can almost taste the new season starting - 3 IN A ROW HERE WE COME !!!
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Is it just me or was Sir Minty's address to the nation a wee bit of fire fighting before the figures were released??
"We'll spend £10m this year" not this summer but this year. They already spent £2m on Thomson + wages in January. They almost trebled their debt this year. It's not looking good for them.
Come on Catherine's team tonight.
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Good luck in your new role Stephen, I hope you grow into the job and lift more trophies than all your predecessors.
If he lifts more than the 'only one King Billy' that will be a world record.
I've often thought someone should compile a photo spread (it would have to be book-length) of Billy lifting trophies. Counting league titles I would guess Caesar lifted more trophies than any other footballer, ever, anywhere. How many? (As player and manager.)
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Here's hoping that Stephen is the first Celtic captain to lift the championship trophy 10 times. 12 in a row and the GoD may be McManus's era.
Also, glad to see the the mint is still cooking the books by overstating the asset value on the balance sheet. Imagine they had got Naismith for quarter of the value of the rest of their entire playing staff.
/S
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Personally, I don't think the onfield duties of a captain are particularly significant in the modern game, when all decisions are controlled from the dugout.
Any player can be the driving force or inspiration on the pitch and not just the guy with the armband.
What I see as the captain's role is around the dressing room and the club in general, as a kind of shop steward, with responsibilities towards communicating between players and management.
With so many foreign players, it is important that there is someone they can go to for advice and help in settling into the club.
Mc.Manus is a good ambassador for the club and has, so far, no skeletons leaping out of the locker.
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While we are all waiting for a shoe to drop on the transfer front, here are some thoughts on the value of Pre-season games.
Pre-season games are necessary to improve the fitness levels of players after a layoff. They also allow new players to play their way into the team. Additionally, as we saw against Newcastle, they allow the defence to learn how to play offside properly, or how not to play opposing forwards onside. I, also, assume that they generate revenue, although I have no knowledge of whether expenses exceed revenue for these games. Travel costs to the US must be substantial.
I know all represent the real value of these games, and that the results are secondary. That is the theory, and I accept it. Then why am I so depressed when Celtic are on the end of a hiding? OK, I know the story about losing a battle in order to win the war, but at times that does not seem to matter.
Celtic played 8 games, travelling to the US, England, Switzerland, with only one game being a home game. The latter is strange because we could expect both performances and gross profit to be maximised in home games, given low outgoings. However, having the sole home game as the last pre-season game is smart because it provides a confidence boost ahead of the real thing.
Did the fees generated from the US games cover expenses? I hope so, because if the main intent was to increase equity in the Celtic brand in the US mnarket, I doubt that that particular objective was achieved, given the performances in the two games. We know that brand equity is positively affected by a strong product performance. The reverse is also true, sadly. It can be readily argued that the last two visits to the US have damaged the Celtic brand, rather than enhanced it.
I hope that all of this is taken into account when devising the next pre-season program.
Rebus
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Dziekanowskis_dazzlers
Pace is overrated in defenders, McManus has no more or less pace than any other player of his stature in Britain. Rarely a player such as Nesta who has real pace comes along who can combine this with positional discipline and playing ability but these guys are not found in the UK.
Bobo started the Manchester United game and within the first 30 minutes had almost gifted them a 2 goal start with a crude lunge on Scholes (admittedly this ended Scholes match but we were fortunate not to lose a player and a goal) and another gift to Ronaldo. McManus that night was simply outstanding and was one of the reasons why Ronaldo and Rooney's movement and runs did not lead to even a shot on goal - there was one wonderful intercetpion in front of the Man Utd fans that I remember well.
Bobo hasn't been a reliable player since 2004, 3 full years ago.
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dziekanowskis_dazzlers...
Wow! You really don't like our captain, do you? You better get used to it though... at least for another 4 years!
Much as I like big Bobo, he's on the downward curve while our captain is on the upward one. There really is no competition.
Big Mick ticks all the right boxes.
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At 31/07/07 15:57, dziekanowskis_dazzlers
I agree that Pace can very rarely be developed but speed of thought os often far more imprtant then physical pace. Many great footballers were not blessed with pace but mental agility put them ahead of their opponants. I'm not saying Stephen McManus has this either but it can be developed by becoming more experinced. How Many Great CH's are there aged 24?
You make assumptions about the managers wish list. We may well buy better before the deadline, but if we don't, I won't be giving up hope.
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• Mark @ 15:16
I don't think he can improve...he is slow and that is something that very few players can develop to a great extent as it is a natural born talent.
With Gordon Strachans vast Database of players, I'm sure it must contain a Centre half that has pace, composure and passing ability as well as the ability to read the game unlike SMc. CL experience is not a prerequisite - if you are good enough you can play!
Paul67 @ 14:49
if finances are nothing to do with BB not getting a game then and it has more to do with him being on the bench only one man has the ability to change this apart fro Bobo...Gordon Strachan. Bobo has declared he is wiling to stay and fight for his place! BB played against Man Utd at celtic park last November in what was roughly his 1st game in 7 months. He was probably THE difference in our change of play in the 2nd half winning headers in his own half and putting them towards our forwards hence putting Man Utd on the back foot! He may make mistakes trying to over elaborate his distribution but they are few and far between and what other player in the SPL/EPL/CL can redeem himself the way Bobo can?
(e.g. his mistake with Cristiano Ronaldo in the same game against MU where he lost the ball but chased CR until he won it back again. I believe no other CH could have prevented CR from scoring!)
Other players have been injured and have been given a chance…is Bobo being discriminated against?
If Bobo keeps his game simple to winning the ball and basic distribution to Centre-Midfielders what a CH we would have. It is Gordon Strachans duty to coach him and help improve his game. He has given enough time and coaching to SMc and in my opinion it has been wasted-time to move on to someone else who can only improve an already highly successful career.
D_D
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National league title holders:
Lennox[Celtic] 11
Gento[RMadrid] 12
Roar Strand[Rosenborg]13!
Zanileskis,Blagonadezdis[Skonto Riga] 13!
I think wee Eyon Fergissin has a few medals after he packed in being a hospital porter to play for the Murray Metals works team.
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Dziekanowskis, dazzlers, I think Bobo has been great for us, but it is time to move on. The incident you refer to against Man U can be overlooked, but in his last full season he was culpable against nippy SPL strikers, the Paul Dalglish goal and the goal at Pittodrie being the most memorable.
Images of him flying through the air to clear the ball stick in the memory, but so are images of him trying to turn with the ball underneath his feet, or trying to pick out a pass.
He will be 32 yr old in two months, not an age when I expect anyone would be able to coach ball-control into him.
While I accept others have a different opinion, it is clear that the manager does not, therefore if he leave it is a football decision and certainly not a financial one.
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Can one of the ‘lack of positional awareness’ guys explain exactly what they mean? Does he find himself up alongside JVoH when we are supposed to be defending? Does he maraud up the wing a la Roy Aitken?
Rash defending? Apart from his automatic suspension after the Falkirk sending off has he picked up enough bookings to get any others? (genuine question)
Don’t get me wrong, I’ve seen him making some heavy (and illegal) tackles but that doesn’t mean they were rash.
I’ve been comparing him, favourably, to John Terry for the past two seasons - and I stand by that.
I had already planned to do a ‘Mick watch’ for a few games to see if I could spot all these flaws; I definitely will now. And I might even post on it.
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This man craig, I disagree with your comment that pace is overrated with defenders. i think it is a preferable attribute when a manager is looking for a new Defender but what i was really trying to say is that McManus is turned eassily and is unable to cover up his mistakes...Bobo CAN do this as he has pace and Inspector gadget like legs!
I also noted that i had made a mistake regarding bobos appearance in the Man Utd game (whn i read it back) and wasn't able to repost before you replied. But as for bobo gifting them 2 goals of a start...as i had already mentioned it was his 1st game in approx. 7 months against 'top notch' opposition and he did recover against C Ronaldo. He will also make mistakes but i feel he is not being given a chance to regain the level he was once able achieve and all because of Gordons strachans preference for scottish players over quality.
Miketw, i have nothing against SMc, i just don;t think he is good enough for celtic, unfortunately our manger tends to disagree with me and i think it will be tothe detriment of our club, especially in europe against pacey and clever thinking forwards!
Mark, I am not making assumptions about our Managers wish list, i recently read an article on-line (wish i could find the link again) where it stated he had the biggest Database in UK football of players, approx. 1500 names if i recall correctly. there is the possibilty that the article was a pile of nonsense! lol
D_D
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''A centre half that has pace, composure and passing ability as well as the ability to read the game''
That would rule out most of the best defenders in the world then...
Maldini has no pace, Terry has no pace or passing ability, Puyol no passing ability, Carragher no passing ability, Ramos is no reader of a game, Cannavarro has no passing ability, Ayala has no pace or passing ability.
These things are a myth, hence why someone like Rio Ferdinand is so highly rated by those in the game. He is decent on the ball and has a bit of pace so the rest of his faults are overlooked.
I'm not sure I rate McManus in the Terry bracket like Timmy7 but certainly for me he is comfortably better than the next level i.e. players like Dawson, Lescott, King, Ferdinand, Brown and so on.
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i have nothing against SMc, i just don;t think he is good enough for celtic, unfortunately our manger tends to disagree with me and i think it will be tothe detriment of our club, especially in europe against pacey and clever thinking forwards!
What, like the AC Milan ones? The team who won the Champions League and could only manage to get past him with a stroke of genius?
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Afternoon, DBBIA- liked the clip. I wish i had the skill to do that. Anyway I'm off to the Farney County for the rest of the summer and hopefully take in the Kerry game. And maybe catch that elusive monster pike i've been after.(aye right)
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DBBIA :- I don't know how it matches up with other players but Ian Fergusons total is as follows.
League - 10
Scottish cup - 3 (plus one with St Mirren)
League cup - 5
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CB with adequate pace is surely a consideration.....as being as slow to turn as an old no45 bus does not make for a quality CB!!
Mick has adequate pace as do most of our current CB's...S pressley is maybe struggling for pace in a 1-2-1 race with JK , MMc and ODEA I would reckon.
Now please give us 2 athletic, approx 6ft full backs with pace a plenty and we will see a different back line taking shape.
Paul any more crumbs of hope on the transfer front?
Nausmith tail of woe has gone v quiet....so I guess Minty's mob have been too busy spinning the media around his financial wizardry !!
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i can't discount the good games he has given us...but i feel his faults are there to be exposed and have been on numerous occasions in the past.Aas i said, the faults i find in SMc are his lack of pace, his ability to be turned easily and his the number of times he is caught out of position...it is just my opinion and one i hope he proves me wrong in.
And since your all ganging up on me...I'm off home wi ma 'ba! lol
Only joking...time to make the dinner...Hopefully I'll have left a heated debate for tonight regarding the pros and cons of SMc abilities as a CH!
Adios
D_D
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Stephen McManus wins very few headers in our own penalty area. Whoever partners him had better be able to jump or every corner we face will be a nightmare.
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EdU-it was almost,but not quite,enough to get him on the podium!
It's quite a haul of medals for a relatively modest talent.Further proof that often the secret of success is just being in the right place,at the right time.
I played against him once,when he was at Clyde and still portering in the Western.Although to be honest'playing against him'consisted of him running through our team at will,before scoring a hatfull of goals
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Congratulations to Stephen McManus.
On my off days, I have watched him playing for the youths and reserves at New Broomfield. It is good to see someone local and someone who came through the ranks to get the captaincy. When he played beside JFK, they were impenetrable.
From todays Times, more insight into the Establishments clubs' canny dealings in the transfer market.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/scotland/article2170103.ece
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PjDali, on transfers: our man sounds in confident mood, but was clear, clubs do not want to sell early, some business will have to wait until late in the month.
Let’s see what the CL draw on Friday brings – money from qualification will have an impact on budget.
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Time to back a horse here lads - the great Celtic whipping bhoy derby 2007/08 has begun......
Boruc - Dodgy on crosses (ahem....)
Wilson - Poor defender and not getting better
McManus - Too slow, too rash, can't read or write.....
Pressley - (My own choice!!)
Naylor - One hit wonder, finding his natural level now
Naka - too lazy and drifts out of games
Hartley - Awful grooming technique, his ability is on the slide
Sno - Big useless lump who can't tackle and has no pace
McGeady - Paper tiger who flatters to deceive, the lord of the dance more than the lord of the wing
Miller - Headless chicken
Zurawski - The only Pole in scotland not willing to work a shift
Selected others area available on request.
#8
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Paul67
If we get a tough looking draw on Friday do we think yikes best not spend any more money in case we don't qualify. Or do we think best spend some money to try to ensure we do qualify ?
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When IS the signing deadline for the 3rd round CL qualifiers? Anyone know?
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danny, we have a 'Uefa Cup budget' at the moment, in other words, we will break even even if we fail to reach the CL and drop to the Uefa.
If we reach the CL the budget will change accordingly.
Got to go, busy night tonight.....
Hmmm.
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