Celtic are gearing up for a crucial Champions League play-off clash against Kairat. The Kazakh side are coming off a disappointing 3-2 defeat to Yelimay, a result that saw them relinquish their top spot in the Kazakhstan Premier League. This loss, their first at home in eight games, has reportedly left their head coach Rafael Urazbakhtin furious, citing "childish mistakes" and a lack of championship mentality.
"It was a disappointing defeat for us," Urazbakhtin stated. "I believe that a team fighting for the championship has no right to make such mistakes. We made childish mistakes."
Despite the setback, Kairat are determined to put up a fight against Celtic. They've already embarked on the long 3,500-mile journey from Almaty to Glasgow, a trip that undoubtedly provides ample time for reflection and strategising.
Rodgers Coy on Vardy Link
Meanwhile, Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has remained tight-lipped regarding rumours linking Jamie Vardy with a move to Parkhead. Vardy, a free agent after leaving Leicester City, has been the subject of speculation, with reports suggesting he's keen on joining Celtic. However, Sky Sports News reports that no contact has been made between the club and the striker at this stage.
"Listen, I would not speak about any individual player," Rodgers said. "Of course I worked really well with Jamie, he was brilliant for me in my time at Leicester. But there's been so many names floated about. I wouldn't disclose either way."
Focus on Stability
Rodgers is keen to maintain stability within the squad amidst the transfer speculation. With the transfer window closing on September 1st, he's urging his players to focus on the task at hand: qualifying for the Champions League. He acknowledged the potential for disruption caused by transfer rumours, stating, "There's so much noise, especially as it ramps up towards the end...I've been in enough changing rooms to know how stability can be lost in this m."
Celtic fans will be hoping that the team can block out the noise and secure a positive result against Kairat, taking a significant step towards Champions League qualification. The focus remains on the pitch, as Celtic aim to overcome a potentially tricky opponent.