12 Thoughts on the Upcoming Scottish Football Season
Introduction:
Last year, Scottish football was known for its stability compared to the managerial merry-go-rounds in English football. However, this year, the Scottish football landscape is just as volatile, if not worse. In this article, we will provide 12 thoughts on the upcoming Scottish football season, covering topics such as player transfers, team performances, and managerial challenges.
1. Why Celtic need Idah:
Adam Idah’s potential move to Celtic has become a saga, with the player expressing his desire to join the club on a permanent basis. Idah’s performance in the Scottish Cup final, where he scored the winning goal, showcased his ability as a strong and contrasting striker to Kyogo Furuhashi. With eight goals in 15 league games last season, Idah has proven himself to be a valuable asset to Celtic’s attack. This signing would provide both immediate and long-term benefits for the club.
2. Angst in the Ibrox air:
Rangers have experienced a nightmarish summer, with construction delays at Ibrox, frustrated managers, and poor pre-season results. The financial landscape has also changed, with the club needing to establish a sustainable player trading model and secure Champions League loot. This season may prove to be a challenging one for Rangers, and manager Philippe Clement will face scrutiny from the fans if results do not go their way.
3. The Shankland mystery:
Lawrence Shankland has been the subject of daily transfer rumors, with clubs circling around the striker but no concrete offers on the table. Shankland was a crucial player for Hearts last season, scoring 44% of the team’s league goals. However, despite the speculation, there is no evidence that he is actually leaving the club. The uncertainty surrounding Shankland’s future adds intrigue to the transfer window.
4. How can Kilmarnock kick on?:
Kilmarnock had a strong season last year, finishing fourth in the league. However, their goal-scoring record leaves room for improvement, as they ranked eighth in terms of goals scored. To reach another level, Kilmarnock needs to get more goals from their defenders and central midfielders. Despite this, they are predicted to hold on to fourth place and secure another shot at European competition.
5. Life after Miovski:
Bojan Miovski’s departure from Aberdeen seems imminent, with the club expecting to secure a record-breaking transfer fee for the striker. While Miovski is undoubtedly a talented player, his goal-scoring record in the league is not exceptional. With the potential transfer fee, Aberdeen could reinvest in a replacement striker. Manager Jimmy Thelin is likely already eyeing potential options to fill the void left by Miovski.
6. Rooney’s return:
Shaun Rooney’s move from St. Johnstone to St. Mirren could prove to be one of the signings of the summer. Rooney’s versatility as a right-back, right wing-back, and right center-back, combined with his goal-scoring ability, makes him a valuable addition to St. Mirren’s squad. The team struggled to find goals last season, and Rooney’s presence could provide the much-needed firepower.
7. Murray in a hurry:
Dundee’s new striker, Simon Murray, had an impressive season last year, scoring 23 goals for Ross County. Despite playing for a struggling team, Murray’s goal involvements were remarkable. Dundee manager Tony Docherty made a shrewd move in bringing Murray to the club, and his goal-scoring prowess could be instrumental in Dundee’s success this season.
8. Foley and the Gordons:
Off-field friction at Hibs could pose a challenge for new manager David Gray. Bill Foley, a minority stakeholder, has expressed dissatisfaction with the ownership group’s lack of responsiveness to his input. A united and discreet ownership structure would benefit the team as they navigate a tough season. Gray will need all the support he can get to guide Hibs to success.
9. Have Motherwell struck gold again?:
Motherwell has a track record of discovering talented strikers, and Apostolos Stamatelopoulos could be the next one to shine. The Australian international scored 17 goals in the A-League last season and impressed in their League Cup match against Partick Thistle. Motherwell’s goal-scoring ability needs improvement following the departure of Theo Bair, and Stamatelopoulos could be the solution.
10. The men from Macedonia:
Dundee United’s signing of Macedonian players David Babunksi and Kristijan Trapanoski has injected excitement into the team. Babunksi, a product of Barcelona’s youth academy, has already scored three goals in his last three games, while Trapanoski has three goals in four games. These players offer potential goal-scoring prowess that could make Dundee United a formidable force in the Premiership.
11. Away day Blues:
Ross County’s poor away form last season was a significant factor in their relegation battle. The team won only one away game and failed to score in 10 of their 19 away matches. New manager Don Cowie must address this issue to ensure a more successful season. The signing of Ronan Hale, who has made an impressive start, could help improve their away performances.
12. Saints alive:
St. Johnstone’s lack of goals last season was a glaring weakness that needs to be rectified. Benjamin Kimpioka’s five goals in the League Cup provide hope for improvement. Manager Craig Levein has made numerous signings to bolster the team’s attacking options. The success of these signings will determine whether St. Johnstone can overcome their goal-scoring struggles.
Conclusion:
The upcoming Scottish football season promises excitement and challenges for all teams involved. From potential transfers to managerial difficulties and goal-scoring woes, each club faces unique obstacles. Only time will tell which teams will rise to the occasion and emerge as the ones to watch in the Premiership.