While Celtic’s status as the top club in Scotland has been undeniable in recent years, they must keep evolving to stay ahead of their rivals.
This ethos undoubtedly applies to anyone who is planning to start a new save with the Hoops in the latest edition of the Football Manager series of games.
Keeping Celtic ahead of arch-rivals Rangers in FM24 requires a good deal of planning, particularly when it comes to developing the squad.
However, there is also pressure to make progress in Europe, which adds an intriguing element for any FM players who think managing Celtic is a walk in the park.
With that in mind, read on as we assess why Irish internationals should form an integral part of Celtic’s starting XI in FM24.
Celtic’s Burgeoning Irish Fanbase
Celtic have built a massive fanbase in Ireland, thanks to their tradition of signing talented players from the Emerald Isle.
The club has been graced by the presence of top-class Irish footballers such as Bertie Peacock, Mick McCarthy, Aiden McGeady and Patsy Gallacher, all of whom eft an indelible mark at Parkhead.
The stellar performances of these players and others have significantly contributed to the ever-growing legion of Celtic supporters in Ireland.
The current Celtic squad boasts several Irish players including Liam Scales, James McCarthy and Mikey Johnston, who have contributed to the club’s success this season.
The Glasgow giants are currently perched at the pinnacle of the Scottish Premiership and on course to secure a third consecutive league title.
While it may be a stretch to suggest that Celtic’s Irish contingent is solely responsible for their title challenge, there is no denying the significant impact they have had under the leadership of Brendan Rodgers.
Online bookmakers in Ireland certainly fancy Celtic’s chances of going all the way for the third time, and the optimism surrounding the club’s potential success is reflected in the favourable betting odds offered by several platforms across the country.
For Celtic fans in the Emerald Isle, these odds present an opportunity to capitalise on the club’s potential title win by engaging with the betting offerings of the best betting sites in Ireland.
Switching over to the virtual world of FM, a pertinent question lingers – could a few more Irish signings establish Celtic as a major powerhouse across Europe in the game? Here are a few options.
Sammie Szmodics
Sammie Szmodics has been absolutely outstanding for Blackburn Rovers this season, showcasing his incredible goalscoring abilities
The Irish international has bagged 16 goals and three assists in 25 Championship appearances. He also netted a hat-trick in the recent 5-2 FA Cup third-round victory over Cambridge United.
Szmodics’ goalscoring exploits place him at the top of the Championship goalscoring chart, positioning him as a strong contender for the Golden Boot award by the end of the season.
If Szmodics’ virtual performance in FM24 mirrors his real-world success, he could prove to be a highly strategic and valuable addition for Celtic in the game.
Andrew Moran
Ireland international Andrew Moran has been generating a considerable buzz as the next rising star from the Emerald Isle.
Currently making waves in the Championship, Moran has been showcasing his skills since he joined Blackburn on a season-long loan from Brighton & Hove Albion last summer.
Moran has made a significant impact in 27 appearances across various competitions, contributing three goals and nine assists.
The youngster is already considered a hot prospect in FM24 and could realise his enormous potential with a few years of regular first-team football.
However, while Moran’s potential is undeniably enormous, it could take a substantial fee for Celtic to lure him away from Brighton in the game.
A more practical and feasible option could be exploring the potential of a season-long loan move, providing him with valuable experience and Celtic with a valuable addition to their squad.
Caoimhin Kelleher
Having progressed through the ranks of Liverpool’s youth system, Caoimhin Kelleher has spent the bulk of his career at Anfield playing second fiddle to the world-class Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson.
Kelleher boasts an impressive collection of five major titles with the Reds, including prestigious trophies such as the Premier League, Champions League and the FA Cup.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMGPm3UcYIY
Kelleher has only featured in Jurgen Klopp’s starting line-up 11 times this season. However, he could be a long-term successor to veteran goalkeeper Joe Hart, who is rapidly approaching the end of his illustrious career.
Securing Kelleher’s services from Liverpool in the virtual realm of FM24 presents an enticing prospect for Celtic, considering players are always ready to jump ship in search of regular playing time.
Drawing on the experience he gained at Liverpool, the Irish goalkeeper could potentially play a crucial role in the Scottish club’s lofty ambitions to conquer Europe in FM24.
