Boli off the books at last

In retrospect, there was so much wrong at Celtic during season 2020-21, that the destructive antics of Boli Bolingoli had no bearing on the outcome.  At the time, however, it felt like a body blow.  As restrictions of the first lockdown were lifting, the football industry was granted permission to mix inside their own bubble, but they were prohibited from mixing with the general population.

Bolingoli broke these rules by taking a short trip to Spain, then made a substitute appearance for Celtic at Rugby Park, before news of his actions broke.  He has been sent out on loan twice since, and, on other occasions, used sparingly only when the squad was depleted by illness and isolation.

Yesterday he left Celtic for the last time, securing a two year deal with Mechelen.  He will not be back to do the Paradise Windfall draw.  Whatever Celtic got wrong in 2020-21, unlike some, they did not duck and dive when it came to public health rules.

Celtic face Czech side Banik Ostrava this evening, as part of their centenary celebrations.  They finished fifth last season, well adrift of Slavia, Sparta and champions, Viktoria Plzen.  As a guide to their aptitude, Jablonec, who we beat home and away in August in Europa League qualification, finished eighth.  In fitness terms, Banik should be ahead of Celtic, with six games already under their belt, so I expect this game will take a toll on the players.

Fun fact: Wikipedia notes Banik have had 31 managers since the Millennium and are on their third boss of the year.