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    Celtic vs Rangers: Get £50 in free bets and bonuses for Saturday’s Old Firm Scottish Cup final with Betfred

    CELTIC and Rangers battle it out for the last trophy in Scotland this weekend in a blockbuster Old Firm Scottish Cup final.And new Betfred customers can claim a terrific £50 in free bets and bonuses when they sign-up and stake a tenner on the top-flight encounter.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles here
    Celtic vs Rangers: Get £50 bonus HERE*
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    Celtic vs Rangers: Get £50 bonus HERE*

    Celtic vs Rangers: Get £50 bonus HERE*
    With both sides already bagging one trophy this season, it’s the chance for the final bragging rights in a rollercoaster Scottish campaign.Secured lifted the Premiership trophy last Saturday having seen off Rangers in the league.While Gers’ League Cup win earlier this season was the start of a potential treble for Philippe Clement, who picked up the mess left behind by Michael Beale.New to Betfred? Then you can claim this incredible offer.Simply visit the Betfred website using this link HERE* and register a new account using the Promo Code: WELCOME50.Then you just need to deposit and stake £10 on any football market at odds of Evens or greater. When that first bet has settled — win or lose — Betfred will credit your account with the following bonuses;
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    Celtic vs Rangers: Get £50 bonus HERE*Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:
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    For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*New customers only. Register (excl. 13/04/24) with WELCOME50. First bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get Free Bets: £20 In-Play, £20 Acca & 50 x £0.20 (£10) Free Spins on Fishin’ Frenzy within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. Full T&Cs apply. More

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    Neil Lennon back in football and opens up on ‘responsibility’ in new role worth £1.5m and Celtic similarity

    NEIL LENNON has landed a new job after 19 months out of the game.The Celtic icon and former Hibs boss has recently been working as a pundit on TV and online, but has landed a lucrative return to the dugout.Neil Lennon has been working as a pundit since returning to ScotlandCredit: PAAs Omonia Nicosia boss he earned plaudits for performances against Man UnitedCredit: PAHe’ll now look ahead to the Romanian Super LigaCredit: GettyHe has been linked to vacancies at Aberdeen and a return to Easter Road – as well as interviewing for the vacant Republic of Ireland post.But Lennon has now agreed to become new boss of Romanian side Rapid Bucharest.It’s a massive change for the Northern Irishman who broadened his horizons with a surprise move to Cyprus in 2021.He led Omonia Nicosia to the Europa League group stages including commendable performances against Manchester United before being sacked in October 2022.Now he’s heading to Romania where Rapid share the stage with city rivals Steaua, CFR Cluj and rising side FCV Farul Constanta.Sunsport carried the news earlier this month and exclusively revealed he had accepted the lucrative terms of his two-year and £1.5m contract.Lennon led Celtic to five SPFL titles in two spells as manager, adding to another five as player and captain of the Hoops.He also steered Hibs’ return to the Premiership and had a two-year spell at Bolton Wanderers.Most read in FootballHe’s become a regular pundit and analyst on TV since returning from his stint in Cyprus.Watch hilarious moment Chris Sutton pokes fun at Neil Lennon’s pronunciation He frequents online video at PLZ Soccer and is also a regular on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday programme.Sky have also drafted him in for studio punditry in their live SPFL games, as have Premier Sports and Viaplay for Cup games.But now he has a big “responsibility” in Romania.He opened up on his new move and said: “In the beginning, I spoke with Mr. Șucu and Daniel Sandu, I had extensive discussions with them. “Then we met again a few weeks ago and I was very impressed with the project they presented to me. I was very impressed by Mr. Șucu, he is a very strong, very intelligent man, a man with principles. “It was impressive to me. Then, talking to Daniel as well, it was a simple decision for me. I am very happy to be here, I know that Rapid is a very important name in the history of Romanian football. It’s an opportunity for me.”I hope to create a strong connection between myself and the fans, but that comes with getting positive results and performing. It is my responsibility. “I know they are very passionate supporters who love the club. They are similar to Celtic fans. I want us to perform, that’s my main goal.I hope to meet the supporters soon and I will do everything possible to perform with Rapid.”Rapid axed boss Cristiano Bergodi last month. He had replaced former Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu at the Giulesti Stadium.They finished second in Liga 1 before losing seven of their eight play-off matches. His new club confirmed his appointment on Monday lunchtimeThey were initially linked with a move for veteran Hoops favourite Martin O’Neill before turning attention to his Parkhead captain.Chairman Dan Sucu added: “I am pleased that Mr. Neil Lennon, a legend in Great Britain, both as a player and as a coach, is joining our project. Considering his career, he is the most titled foreign specialist who came to train in Romania.”He comes from a soccer culture based on seriousness, work, success. A culture where decisions, once made, are no longer commented on or negotiated, but simply implemented.”A coach with exceptional results, experienced but still young, energetic, very authoritative, a true leader. And, on top of everything, a coach who can make balanced decisions without coming with a baggage of dislikes or subjective preferences regarding the team.”Rapid last won their national league 23 years ago but fell on hard times and went bankrupt in 2016 and had to reform in the fifth tier of football, before battling back and returning to the top flight three years ago.Rapid sports director Daniel Sandu said: “Moving forward, we have to figure out exactly what we’re looking for and what we want from both the players and the new staff.READ MORE SUN STORIES”At the moment we are not in a very good place, but I have faith the new management team will reset us and show what Rapid is all about.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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    Fans baffled as Celtic presented with Scottish Premiership trophy by SANTA CLAUS.. but there’s a hilarious reason for it

    FOOTBALL fans were baffled after Celtic were presented with the Scottish Premiership trophy by SANTA CLAUS.Celtic ran out 3-2 winners over St Mirren courtesy of goals from Matt O’Riley, Kyogo Furuhashi and a late goal from Luis Palma.Santa Claus presented the trophy for Celtic as they lifted the Scottish league titleCredit: ReutersIt was their 54th league titleCredit: Kenny RamsayIt came after Santa was booed by fans in DecemberFollowing the game, the Hoops were waiting on the pitch at Celtic Park to lift the trophy in front of the home support.However, to everyone’s amazement, the trophy was walked on to the pitch by a man dressed as Father Christmas.Reacting to the jolly surprise in May, one fan said: “WTF?”A second said: “This is phenomenal 😂”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnother said: “Imagine trying to explain this to people outside Scottish football…”The explanation for his appearance can actually be traced back to when Celtic were 2-0 down to Hearts at half-time back in December.Santa had come on the pitch back in the winter to do a prize draw.But fans were not feeling merry at the time and proceeded to heavily boo Santa.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThis time around Celtic fans were in a more celebratory mood.And on time occasion Santa was serenaded as he handed the trophy over for the ceremony.One social media user said: “Santa’s Celtic redemption.”A second said: “A lovely reception for Santa at Celtic Park.”A third said: “All is forgiven, Saint Nick!”With their trophy this season, Celtic have now won 54 Scottish League Championships. It puts them one behind rivals Rangers who have 55 league titles.The record for most titles in a single league country is the 56 Linfield have won in Northern Ireland.Most league titles
    Linfield (Northern Ireland), 56.
    Rangers (Scotland), 55.
    Celtic (Scotland), 54.
    Penarol (Uruguay), 53.
    Nacional (Uruguay), 49.
    Olympiacos (Greece), 47.
    Olimpia (Paraguay), 46.
    Olimpia (Honduras), 44.
    Al-Ahly (Egypt), 43.
    South China FC (Hong Kong), 44.
    Deportivo Saprissa (Costa Rica), 39.
    Benfica (Portugal), River Plate (Argentina), 38.
    Ajax (Netherlands), Juventus (Italy), Real Madrid (Spain), 36.
    Boca Juniors (Argentina), Red Star Belgrade (Serbia, Yugoslavia), Al-Faysali (Jordan), Ferencvaros (Hungary), 35.

    TYSON FURY VS OLEKSANDR USYK LIVE: ALL THE LATEST FROM HUGE UNDISPUTED WORLD TITLE FIGHT More

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    Rape shame footballer David Goodwillie agrees deal for next season – after scoring 46 goals in ninth tier

    NINTH tier outfit Glasgow United offered shamed former Scotland international star David Goodwillie a chance to play football 12 months ago.That was in the middle of a storm which saw fans and backers of Raith Rovers revolt against their side’s decision to snap him up in his high-profile move to the Kirkcaldy club in January 2022David Goodwillie has been prolific in the colours of Glasgow UnitedCredit: SNSDavid Goodwillie played for ScotlandCredit: PA:Empics SportHis contract was eventually ripped up with Goodwillie having never appeared for the club – with a loan return to his former club Clyde was also scrapped after another backlash.Goodwillie was ruled in a 2017 civil case to have raped Denise Clair, 36 – six years after the Crown Office said there was insufficient evidence to put him on trial.He was ordered to pay £100,000 in damages by a judge over the incident in West Lothian six years previously, The ex-Scotland international was told his alleged victim’s lawyers have asked prosecutors to re-examine the case, with Goodwillie welcoming the fresh bid for him to be put on trial for rape.But as for his football, the club which sits mid-table in the West of Scotland Football League third tier are more than happy with a debut season which saw the prolific striker net no fewer than FORTY SIX goals. And they’ve agreed a deal which will see him continue at the club next season.They wrote on X/Twitter: “The club are pleased to announce after scoring an impressive 46 goals in his debut season at the club, David Goodwillie will continue to wear the colours of Glasgow Utd next season.”Glasgow United play at Greenfield Park, despite council chiefs warning that they were ready to punt the team from its hub in the Shettleston area, after they said the rapist footballer “deserves a chance”.Most read in FootballGlasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken previously she was ready to sever ties if a the team continues to pursue the former Scotland cap.She told The Scottish Sun:  “David Goodwillie has been found, in court, to be a rapist.“However, in more than 12 years, he has never once shown any kind of contrition or remorse.“Any club that signs him is making a very clear statement about its attitude to the safety of women and girls – both in sport and in its community.“It would be an outrageous decision, wholly at odds with how community facilities like Greenfield should be run.“I’ve asked officers to look at the council’s agreement with Glasgow United and made it clear that I’m ready for the city to walk away.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page  More

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    Three arrested at Celtic v Rangers clash as cops launch probe after objects thrown at James Tavernier

    THREE people were arrested at yesterday’s Old Firm clash – as it emerged police are investigating after objects were thrown at Rangers captain James TavernierCops were forced to take action amid the high stakes Scottish Premiership encounter at Parkhead.Objects were thrown onto the pitch during playCredit: PAThree people were arrested during yesterday’s Old Firm encounter at ParkheadCredit: PAMounted police patrolled the perimeter of ParkheadCredit: PAThree people, aged 29, 44, and 47, were apprehended by officers.The arrests were carried out over alleged “acts of disorder”.Rangers captain James Tavernier was targeted with objects thrown by home fans as he prepared to take a corner during the powderkeg derby clash. Moments later missiles, including a metal item that Sky Sports pundits later called a “marijuana grinder”, rained down from the Celtic Park standing section.Tavernier handed the object to match referee Willie Collum.A number of other missiles were then thrown in the fullback’s direction before he was able to direct his corner into the area.Cops are continuing to carry out enquiries following the arrests and the objects being thrown onto the playing surface.A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Three people, aged 29, 44 and 47 have been arrested during the fixture at Parkhead, Glasgow on Saturday, 11 May, 2024 in connection with acts of disorder.Most read in Football“Enquiries are ongoing.”They added: “We are aware of items thrown during the match at Parkhead on Saturday, 11 May, 2024. Enquiries into the matter are ongoing.”Moment Celtic ultras unveil striking banner before Rangers clash declaring ‘we will be your strength’ No Rangers fans were present at the match due to a stand-off between the clubs over allowing away supporters into the grounds for the derby clashes. A return of away fans in European-style allocations will happen from next season.Celtic’s 2-1 win edged them closer to the title as they now sit six points ahead of their rivals with just two league games remaining.The Hoops got the first goal yet again in the crucial fixture when Matt O’Riley rifled in a low shot from the edge of the box.John Lundstram then put the ball into his own net, and his day didn’t get any better when he was given a straight red card for a dangerous tackle on Alistair Johnston.Shortly afterwards, Cyriel Dessers gave the Gers a route back into the match but they were unable to level the contest and Celtic won the final league derby of the season.Celtic ran out 2-1 winnersCredit: Kenny RamsayKeep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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    Unseen moment Celtic and Rangers coaches spotted exchanging words as temperature rises in technical area

    FOOTBALL is a passionate game – particularly in the heat of the Old Firm battle with the league title on the line. And players and staff of Celtic and Rangers wore their hearts on their sleeves this afternoon in the course of what was a dramatic afternoon in the Premiership title race. Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers gestures on the touchlineCredit: PARangers Manager Philippe Clement watches on as Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers and Alex Rae exchenge wordsCredit: SNSWhile all parties exchanged handshakes at the final whistle as you would expect, the two technical areas are metres apart and it didn’t appear that they saw eye to eye on absolutely everything.And while it wasn’t spotted during the live TV coverage, a still picture taken during the second half captured Rangers coach Alex Rae and Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers exchanging words, while Philippe Clement kept a watchful eye on the situation. There were a number of controversial decisions during the match – with referee Willie Collum sticking with his on-field decision to award the Hoops a penalty which Jack Butland subsequently saved.Hoops No 2 John Kennedy was also in attendance, and fourth official Don Robertson didn’t seem too concerned about anything that was going on.There was an interesting build-up between the two camps after Rodgers said that he planned to have a “bit of fun” in the match. After the 3-0 win against Hearts he said: “Take nothing for granted, keep our composure, we have a lot of work to do in the week, get our plan ready.”And then next Saturday we can have a bit of fun.”But his opposite number Clement was none too happy about the comment, saying: “That it is something that I would never say about an opponent. But okay, we will see.Most read in Football“It’s not really respectful towards my team. That is what I think. So I will never say things like that about an opponent.”Rodgers then said that the reaction was “totally without merit”, adding that the matches with Rangers were a bit part of why he returned to the club for a second time.Moment Celtic ultras unveil striking banner before Rangers clash declaring ‘we will be your strength’ Rodgers said: “I think anyone who was at my press conference would have sensed the way it was said.”Obviously the reaction to that is totally without merit and has no context whatsoever.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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    Celtic 2 Rangers 1 – Rodgers has his fun with Hoops on brink of title as Lundstram sending off thwarts Gers in thriller

    CELTIC Park in the sun, Celtic scored two, Brendan Rodgers got his fun.The Parkhead boss may have talked down his pre-match comments ahead of this Old Firm crunch.Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers acknowledges the fans at the endWillie Collum shows John Lunstram the red card after a VAR reviewBut crucially his team turned up.The title race is all but over now after this derby victory against Rangers that was pulsating and bursting with drama.Matt O’Riley scored first before John Lundstram turned the ball into his own net.Cyriel Dessers then pulled one back for Philippe Clement’s side before Lundstram was sent off for a wild and crazy tackle just before half-time.Rodgers side missed a second-half penalty and ended up clinging on for the win in a nervy finish.But there could be no doubting they deserved the crucial three points that puts them within touching distance off three-in-a-row.You always felt Rangers had to take the lead here to stand any chance of getting the win they needed.That they had to silence the 60,000 home support. Turn their backing into anxiety.Most read in FootballAnd the Ibrox side had some big moments at 0-0.Fabio Silva twice had opportunities to score before Celtic did.I’m a world famous pop star but playing at Celtic Park was one of best moments of my life until I was sick on the pitch Dujon Sterling also had a big chance early on when he should have done better with a header after jumping above Greg Taylor.Clement will point to those misses and wonder what might have been.But in the cold light of day,  they don’t matter.Not against a Celtic side that did everything asked of them in the definite fixture of the season.It may have ended with only one goal between these sides but Celtic produced a disciplined and controlled performance when they needed one most.And no-one was more influential than Callum McGregor who was the team’s beating heart.He said in the build-up how he adored this fixture and relished its challenge. His performance only underlined that.Scotland boss Steve Clarke must have loved seeing this all-action, non-stop running shift from the midfielder with the Euros so close now.McGregor played a part in the Celtic goal that saw them go 1-0 ahead after 35 minutes.James Forrest, another player so influential in this team lately, slid a neat pass to his captain down the right channel.McGregor then lifted his head to find O’Riley, who did the rest with a near-post finish Jack Butland couldn’t get near.It was the goal the home supporters had been waiting for, one they maybe feared wouldn’t come after a number of close calls. O’Riley could actually have scored twice before he eventually did. Forrest, Kyogo, McGregor all firing off shots too which failed to hit the net.Going ahead gave Celtic a shot of adrenaline that only increased their intensity and within three minutes it was 2-0.This time Daizen Maeda burst down the left to latch onto a long ball forward before playing it across goal.Lundstram stuck out a leg only to score a cruel OG.Celtic fans celebrate at the end of the cinch Premiership match at Celtic ParkCeltic looked good to go on and win comfortably from that moment.But inside a minute of conceding, Rangers managed to pull a goal back.Dessers hadn’t scored an Old Firm goal before and he can be pleased with how he got himself into the right place at the right time to head past Joe Hart.It was a moment that showed Clement’s side at least had a fighting spirit to get back into it.But then came Lundstram’s moment of madness. There is just no other word for it.Sure, the ball was there to be won as he slid into a challenge on Johnston.But players just cannot expect to get away with the type of tackle he made.Referee Willie Collum initially gave Lundstram the benefit of the doubt by flashing a yellow card.But it was a red all day long and a quick quick of the VAR monitor confirmed it.Celtic’s Callum McGregor following the cinch Premiership match at Celtic ParkWith an extra man for second-half, the chances of Rangers getting anything from the game went from slim to none.It would have been difficult enough for Clement’s team to turn it around with a full complement of players out on the park.Rodgers’ side should have made things far easier on themselves in 52 minutes when they were awarded a penalty after O’Riley was tripped inside the box by Mohamed Diomande Collum had a good view of it and pointed to the spot and even after he was invited to take another look by VAR, Steven  McLean, he stuck by his original decision.🟥 “That’s never a red card!”🗣️ “He’s out of control there.”John Lundstram was sent off after a VAR check. Your thoughts? Watch Celtic vs Rangers LIVE on @SkyFootball 📺 pic.twitter.com/WBUOi3KUXA— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 11, 2024

    O’Riley stepped up, looking for his second goal of the game, but it was a tame effort saved by Butland.It was backs to the wall for Rangers.Celtic had wave after wave of attack which saw a VAR check for a handball inside the box turned away as well as a Maeda finish which was disallowed for off-side.There as a half-chance for Clement’s side to make it 2-2 but substitute Ross McCausland opted to control a ball inside the box when he should have tried a first-time volley.That would have been encouraging to the Rangers fans watching at home.Matt O’Riley of Celtic reacts after missing a penaltyWhat wouldn’t have been was the sight of Silva giving assistance to Johnston as he lay on the pitch struggling with cramp.Clement’s side really went for in in the final ten minutes and there were signs of nervousness at the back for Celtic.McGregor had to race back and block a shot from sub Scott Wright. Butland even going up for a last gasp corner.While Adam Idah shot side as he missed a chance to seal it with a third.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn the end, though, the final whistle signalled wild celebrations with the title race all but done. Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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    ‘This happens too often’ – Ex-Celtic boss Neil Lennon has tyres SLASHED on eve of Old Firm derby against Rangers

    FORMER Celtic boss Neil Lennon has had his car tyres slashed – on the eve of the Old Firm derby.Lennon, 52, also revealed that it’s NOT the first time it’s happened to him.Former Celtic boss Neil Lennon’s car has been targeted by vandalsCredit: PAThere was a huge slash in the side of his tyreCeltic and Rangers face off tomorrow in a de facto Premiership title decider at Parkhead.Kick-off is at 12.30pm and no away fans will be present at Celtic Park, something which will change starting from next season.Lennon played for Celtic from 2000 to 2007, becoming captain of the club, and has had two spells as manager from 2010 to 2014 and again from 2019 to 2021.He lifted 21 major honours during his time at the club as a player and manager and became adored by the Celtic support.However, he was once sent bullets in the post by loyalist thugs from Northern Ireland after an Old Firm game and was also often the victim of abuse from Rangers fans during matches.On the eve of tomorrow’s Glasgow derby clash Lennon has once again been targeted.He shared a picture on social media of a deep cut into the bottom of one of his motor’s tyres, which became deflated as a result. The tyre valve dust cap had also been removed.Lennon said it happens “too often” and added the timing of the incident didn’t go unnoticed.Most read in FootballLennon wrote on his LinkedIn account – in a post that has since been deleted: “Tyres slashed again on the eve of a Celtic vs Rangers game. Happens far too often. The timing of it isn’t lost on me.”The Northern Irishman, who has been linked with a return to management with Romanian club Rapid Bucharest, is currently working as a pundit for various media outlets including Sky Sports and PLZ Soccer.Kolo Toure recalls driving past fight between Rangers and Celtic fans in the middle of the road after Old FirmIt’s likely he would have been booked to be in the studio for Sky’s coverage of tomorrow’s derby as one of the panellists alongside regulars such as Chris Sutton, Kris Boyd and James McFadden.SunSport has contacted Police Scotland for comment.The original post as it appeared on LinkedIn before being deletedKeep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More