Gordon Strachan insists there is no need for regime change at Celtic and only “certain people” want a Parkhead boardroom overhaul. The former Hoops boss believes “not a word will be uttered” over the club’s recruitment if they reach the promised land of the Champions League.
Domestic double proves club in right hands
Celtic won a domestic double last season despite furious protests against those running the club, but Strachan insists their success is proof the club is in the right hands. He does not want to see them change a model that is working, with summer signings such as Kasper Hogh and midweek goal hero Camilo Duran once again showing their shrewd recruitment, as well as banking £22million for Arne Engels from West Ham United.
Celtic were criticised at the speed of their transfers, but Strachan, who won three Premiership titles in a row as boss after succeeding Martin O’Neill in his first spell, insists it’s about making sure they get the signings spot on.
Strachan: Don't listen to the noise
The 69-year-old told Betway: “You don’t need real change at the club. There are only certain people that want change at the club. Other people are quite happy with the victories last season. I’d say it’s performance in the Champions League now that would settle everybody down.
“I remember when Ange [Postecoglou] was there and they lost a few goals but had good attacking performances against top sides. That's what Celtic supporters are missing. They're missing the games against Man United, Barcelona, matches like that. You can't point your finger at the hard work done by everybody else there, and a certain amount of people will always be grumbling about the board.
“So I don't think change is necessary at all, because if your club is stable with money in the bank, it’s the job of the board or owners to make sure that the club is safe, forever. It’s not about gambling with your club to make more money for yourself.
“We can’t forget, this is a Celtic team that was close to liquidation 30 years ago before one man came along with a million pounds and saved the club. That's how perilous this game can be. But those who are running things at Celtic need to make sure they continue doing their job and not listen to the noise.”
Transfer speed and the Champions League
On whether Celtic were too slow in the transfer market this summer, he said: “No, it's due diligence. Only a few clubs can spend in a certain way. If spending is reckless and player wages become ridiculous, you could put your club at risk. It's been shown with other clubs in Scotland and England. If you do not do your homework properly, you cannot only end up not winning trophies but losing your club.
“So I think Celtic’s speed is right, as the four signings they’ve made are smashing signings. People talk about Celtic’s business not being that great, Engels is off for £22m. Kyogo and Maeda also went for good money, so the money they bring in from players is truly phenomenal.
“What Celtic have to do, like any professional, is do it without listening to the outside noise. They've got to be brave enough to take more time and make sure that the deals that come in are suitable to Celtic and the model they have got.
“So I think the timing's right because they've won two games so far, but the big one for them now is the Champions League. If they get through to the Champions League, not a word will be uttered.”
