Juan Agudelo training at Celtic FC in the offseason

I'm smiling. Too many Yanks have played at that "other" club. Just a training stint it seems. But man would I love to see a Yank, other than a backup GK, play for the Bhoys. Lennon's a great young manager and if Juan takes to heart the instruction he receives it will bode well for him.

 

Hooper is bound to move on sooner than later. He loves Celtic but eventually someone in a better league will scoop him up. He wants to play for England and quite honestly is good enough but his chances are slim with Celtic. Of course Forster is earning callups as well as the youngster from Crystal Palace, Zaha so maybe there is a chance for Hooper. I hope so. None one wants to lose Hooper.

 

It's inevitable it will happen but try not to discount the training stint at Celtic. The club's play is in no way, shape, or form indicative of the SPL. The roster is deep and talented. Lennon has been able to use different styles and formations to much success. That's due to the diverse roster and his ability to recognize how to use his players effectively. The current team is really built for Europe and the good Lord willing, will make it into the knockout round of the CL. Make no mistake they are talented and Juan can certainly learn and add to his game during his stint. It will be an intense environment with lofty expectations probably like no atmosphere, outside of the national team, that he's experienced.

 

He did and I want to the say it was the Liverpool reserve side and 1st team of Stuttgart. I could be wrong, though.

 

The club really, really liked Ruelas but not having the ability to receive a WP was a killer. His long term stint was due the Santos - Celtic partnership that was struck up in the last year.

 

Actually, they aren't as direct as one believe --- well in the transitional sense. It's not Route 1 football. They aren't bypassing the midfield but working thru it to playing short passing combos that eventually open up a direct route. Coincidently, playing a more direct style resulted in 2 US goals yesterday. Sometimes I think we are more effective this way. I think Juan can thrive in that environment.

 

Of course that play was! There was no better option.

But overall over they aren't Route 1 oriented. Direct, yes, but not a lump it up the field and pray type of football. I've only missed a handful of games this season and I've been impressed with their embracement of mixing styles and formations.