SPFL hits Celtic with partial stadium closure
Celtic will face a reduced capacity for a Premiership match next season after the SPFL imposed sanctions for the pitch invasion that followed the title-clinching win over Hearts in May. The governing body has ordered a suspended capacity cut for one fixture. Brian Wilson has called the debate around the incident "stupid" (1).
O'Neill pushing for Saracchi to stay permanently
Marcelo Saracchi is open to a permanent move to Celtic after his successful loan spell, and Martin O'Neill's new one-year deal could be the catalyst. O'Neill made his feelings clear: "I think they will bring Saracchi to the club permanently. I think they should do," before joking about the language barrier. "He hasn't a clue what I'm saying to him. Not a clue! I could be saying anything to him, and he would still say yes to it" (2). The left-back remains at Boca Juniors for now, but a deal looks increasingly likely.
Adamu joins Schalke, Celtic spell over
Junior Adamu has left Celtic for Schalke 04, ending a disappointing stint at the club. The striker, who was also on the books at SC Freiburg, never managed to establish himself at Parkhead. Schalke have picked him up in what kicker describes as a cut-price deal (3).
Oxlade-Chamberlain contract call next
With O'Neill confirmed as permanent manager, attention now turns to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's future. A contract extension is looking more likely under the 74-year-old. Daizen Maeda and Kelechi Iheanacho also need decisions made on their deals, and clarity on O'Neill staying should accelerate those talks (4).