Daily News 19

Tag: Ibrox

  • Celtic boss Martin O’Neill says team given ‘timely’ police reminder ahead of derby

    Celtic boss Martin O’Neill says team given ‘timely’ police reminder ahead of derby

    Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers addressed the media ahead of the latest Old Firm derby, revealing details of discussions with police regarding fan behavior and reflecting on the unique atmosphere expected at Ibrox without away supporters.

    Police Talks Focus on On-Field Conduct and Celebrations

    Asked what had been said, the Northern Irishman said: “They didn’t mention this, but I would have assumed that one of the things that would be considered is what happens in the field of play, because these things can be taken further.”

    Rodgers outlined the key concerns raised during the meeting. “You don’t want any sort of punch-ups for a start. Secondly, you don’t want excessive celebrations, stuff like that.”

    He linked the heightened scrutiny directly to recent flashpoints. “But I think it’s just the behaviour in the light of what has happened in recent fixtures. I think that the conversation with the police wouldn’t have taken place had not recent events been brought up to us.”

    Celtic’s Derby Dominance and Title Race Context

    The visitors arrive in Glasgow’s south side with a clear psychological edge. Celtic have won the latest three derbies since Rangers beat them 3-1 at Celtic Park in the league in January, and are five points ahead in the Premiership after just six games of the new season.

    Atmosphere at Ibrox: “Strange” Without Away Fans

    Asked how having no away fans might impact the match, O’Neill added: “I think the games themselves almost take care of themselves in that sense.”

    The Celtic boss acknowledged the unusual dynamic. “It’ll be strange in many aspects not to have any away fans in our area. I always felt as if it would give you a crumb of comfort in some description.”

    He summed up the conflicting emotions surrounding the fixture: “Nervously looking forward to it, excitedly looking forward to it.”

    Rangers’ Form and Home Crowd Factor

    Rangers have come in for some criticism from their own fans for a poor start to the season under new manager Derek McInnes, although the hosts are on a run of four successive victories.

    Rodgers suggested an early goal could amplify home anxiety. “I suppose if you get in front in the game, that makes them anxious,” O’Neill suggested.

    However, he remained realistic about the challenge. “Talking about getting in front and getting in front are two different things. The crowd will be right behind their team, which you would expect.”

    The Northern Irishman struck a respectful but determined tone. “We just do our best. We know that we’re up against a very fine side. We’re up against a crowd that can make a difference. I’d be delighted to be celebrating something in the game.”

  • Rangers Transfer Target Kevin Kelsy: Profile of the Striker on the Ibrox Agenda

    Rangers Transfer Target Kevin Kelsy: Profile of the Striker on the Ibrox Agenda

    Kelsy began his professional career in Venezuela with Mineros de Guayana, making his first-team debut in 2021 at just 16 years old. His early arrival in top-flight football highlighted his natural talent, but the journey to join Mineros also demonstrated his determination.

    To reach the club, Kelsy had to travel 500 miles from his hometown of Valencia. However, the distance was not his biggest obstacle. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a nationwide travel ban was in place, so he hid in a mining truck to avoid detection at checkpoints.

    “It wasn’t an appropriate time to be using airports or anything to do with [travel] – so Mineros’ president and my agent had an idea,” Kelsy said earlier this year, speaking to a Portland Timbers blog. “Thinking about it, the idea was crazy to be honest. I was so young, I only let myself be guided by my dreams, not thinking about the craziness of what I was doing. “It was all for my dream, which was to be a professional athlete, to play in Europe.”

    The year after his debut, Kelsy began to establish himself, scoring five goals in 24 appearances. That form earned him a move to Europe, with the forward signing for Shakhtar Donetsk after a short spell in Uruguay with Boston River.

    Across two title-winning seasons with Shakhtar, Kelsy scored nine goals in 37 appearances while playing against the backdrop of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

    “It was my first proper experience outside of my country and a very drastic change – both culturally and sporting,” he added.

    “There were times when I lived first hand the attacks on the country, but also saw how the country defended itself,” Kelsy said. “I won’t lie to you, I could see up in the sky war drones getting knocked down. “They are moments that will forge you, mature you. I think ultimately dreams are bigger than anything else, so I tried not to mind all those things the best I could.”