Celtic Park was far from full for the pre-season friendly against Middlesbrough as fans staged a boycott to protest the board's transfer inactivity. However, Record Sport pundits believe the protest will have little effect on the club's hierarchy.
Fan Boycott Fails to Move Celtic Board
Keith Jackson argued that the board has "rammed two fingers in its ears where the support is concerned," adding that they "will do what they want, when they want and the fans will simply have to lump it." Andy Newport agreed, stating the board has not listened to fans for long enough and that it will take "something far more drastic than a friendly game no-show to force change." He noted that fans are reluctant to give up their season tickets.
Michael Gannon pointed out that unrest last season did not change the January window, and the current situation is similar. Fraser Wilson, however, suggested the sight of a three-quarters empty ground should give the board a "jag," calling it the "ultimate 'finger out' warning which the bean counters surely can't ignore." The turnout was a stark contrast to the 50,000 who attended the corresponding friendly against Newcastle the previous year.
Derek McInnes Faces Challenges at Rangers
Derek McInnes is set to make his Ibrox debut as Rangers boss on Wednesday night. Pundits outlined key areas for improvement. Keith Jackson highlighted the need for game-changing influences in the final third, upgraded wide men, and a creative No.10 if Nico Raskin departs. Andy Newport echoed the need for a difference-maker in midfield and a goal threat out wide, as well as defensive depth and clearing out deadwood.
Michael Gannon called for more guile and creativity in midfield and wide areas, while Fraser Wilson prioritized a "big imposing no-nonsense centre half," noting Rangers looked soft defensively last season. He stressed that if John Souttar leaves, a ready-made starter is needed.
Hearts Face Tough Champions League Opener
Hearts will face Sturm Graz in their Champions League opener. Keith Jackson described it as a big ask given a tumultuous summer at Tynecastle, but a win would be a major boost for Scottish football. Andy Newport noted that pre-season indications show Hearts look sharp, and if they keep things tight in Austria, they have a chance in the second leg.
Michael Gannon said the tie is tough but Hearts have looked "pretty tasty" in pre-season, with new signings seeming decent. He predicted a draw or narrow loss in Austria could set up a memorable second leg in Gorgie. Fraser Wilson highlighted the number of new players and new style of football, but called Friday's performance against Rayo Vallecano "extremely promising," suggesting even a one-goal defeat gives Hearts a real chance.
Gianni Infantino's FIFA Reign Criticized
As the World Cup nears its end, pundits called for Gianni Infantino's tenure as FIFA president to end. Keith Jackson stated it should be over but likely won't, as Infantino is "bomb proofed" by FIFA's voting structure. Andy Newport said European chiefs would oust him if they could, calling him a "global embarrassment" with his Trump love-in and tradition-bucking World Cup changes, but he will likely get votes from smaller associations.
Michael Gannon said it depends on UEFA making a power play, as Infantino will send mega bucks to associations after making a killing across the Atlantic. Fraser Wilson emphatically agreed, saying Infantino would "flog his granny to further his own standing" and that FIFA needs someone who cares about the game and supporters first.
