SkyBlueScot

Wasn't saying you were. Just providing an update.

He's currently on the bench.

Whilst I understand why Flecks not been in the squad it was a concern that Sheff Utd have stated that no SFA official has asked for tickets to watch them. Could have gone to away games but how extensive is McLeish's scouting network?

I think it's ok. I'm feeling positive. You look at the teams folks have been posting and it's a strong team with still support to come in. Striker is the only real concern (and yeah, a pretty big deal) although we can't lose another centre back. But it's positive to see youngsters coming in and fighting for a spot. Many of the call-offs haven't been ones to rely on although Mulgrew is a big loss at the moment.

Phillips scored today. Think he's a better player than he's given credit for on here.

From the BBC's live text: I have to say I've been mightily impressed by Staurt Armstrong in the first period. I was wondering how he'd go after arriving at St. Mary's from Celtic in the summer. And so far, it's not exactly been great. But he covered the most ground of any Southampton player (5.41km) in the first half on his first start since the opening day and has provided some badly needed cutting edge

Thank God for that. They're winning too.

Don't want to change a winning team?

FFS! purple patch, as in a run of success, things going well, coming good, showing what he can do etc. How is that defeatist?

To be clear I've nothing against building the team around a Celtic core. I'm just pointing out that it's only 2 or 3 players. McGregor and Tierney must start (I'm the only one who thinks he'sbetter than Robertson), Brown's retired and Griffiths isn't playing. It only leaves you with Forrest so essentially it's just back to an argument about him. Personally I'd start Forrest and would be happy with a midfield of Forrest, McGinn, McGregor, Fraser and Armstrong. I actually think that's our best midfield anyway (potentially with Cairney coming in). I'd also be happy with the idea of Christie on the bench and looking for an opportunity to bring him on. This is still a young squad and i remain positive for the future.

To be fair who has he left out so far? Tierney and McGregor have played every game, Forrest has been on the edge of the starting line up and nobody would have considered Christie until this purple patch. Who else is there? Gordon/McGregor are at the same level so it doesn't really matter which one to choose and Brown's retired.

And scores. Interesting.

You reckon?

Doesn't say how many of these are from the performance school. Anybody know?

You're right but then I read he was born in England and the old worries set in! I understand Shiels and the others keeping their options open until they are old enough to make a correct decision but it must be a worry for the performance school coaches and they must discuss how you approach each situation. Forming a good team bond is clearly the best way to do that.

Just reading up on some of them. According to the Daily Record Shiels is opting to play for Ireland and Scotland until he's forced to choose at 21. Anyone know any more? The other interesting one was Mebude. Sounds really promising. Was a bit surprised by him retweeting match of the day's tweet about Harry Kane though: https://mobile.twitter.com/dmebude?lang=en

Just finished watching the match on delay. Gutted but Christie was good when came on. (never a penalty though). So that's Berra, Souttar, Naismith, Mulgrew and Griffiths all starting to look doubtful. Wonder if Bates could get a call up?

Didn't you suggest it after only one game up front for Cardiff? If he turns into a great forward then fair enough but to suggest dropping Naismith at that point seemed a bit premature.

I understand that Fraser set up two goals today. Any reason on Robertson dropping to the bench? He was subbed in the week and so I wondered, as it's Cardiff at home, whether he's been rested. Liverpool fans don't seem keen though: https://metro.co.uk/2018/10/27/liverpool-fans-blame-alberto-moreno-for-ruining-anfield-clean-sheet-record-8081166/

Robertson starts on the bench.

Is it really heretical to say that Tierney is a better left back than Robertson? The response to this will probably be, "Robertson plays for Liverpool and played in the Champions League final..." but by saying that are we stating that a Celtic player won't be chosen if there is an EPL top 4 player in their position? I like Robbo, I really do, but he's not exactly set the world alight recently for Scotland (yes, he's out of position etc). All I am asking is whether there's any discussion needed... (puts on hard hat)

Thanks for that. I really enjoy the weekly Totally Scottish Football Show. Every Monday. You can find it on Spotify

Hope he gets more call-up at national level. Seems like he's not had as much involvement as he should although I know there's been an injury and Levein withdrew him one point didn't he because amount of games? As a Hearts fan it was a surprise to me that he started in the Rangers academy.

Yeah, I always feel it's a shame when players rush back too soon. If it continues he'll be playing Bayern Munich next season. It's just good to know he's well regarded. Along with McKenna, Robertson, Souttar and Tierney we are starting to see choice at the back amongst young lads. If Porteous and Hendry do make it then It's vert positive. Still not a single right back 😫

Daily Record reporting that Bates is being tracked by several Premier league clubs: https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-transfer-news/former-rangers-defender-david-bates-13453012 All just paper talk but still interesting.