With or without Ange Postecoglou, the future's bright - it's green and white

Celtic must make sure the achievements under Ange are the foundation of an enduring legacy

As we brace ourselves for the seemingly inevitable departure of Ange Postecoglou from Celtic, what matter next is not about the clichéd passing of the baton, but rather the enduring legacy he leaves in his wake. The squad's vitality and youthfulness, the equilibrium of power with our noisy neighbours, these are the true measures of his impact.

Unlike the aftermath of Tony Mowbray's reign, where we were left picking up the pieces of a

WALKING AWAY? What happens next is vital

disheartened, subpar squad, or the tumultuous times following Ronny Deila's departure, where a fractious, undisciplined dressing room overshadowed our championship status, Ange's exit paints a different picture. (And let's not even get started on the calamitous situation Neil Lennon left us in, with a squad of talented players we couldn't retain and others we couldn't shift even with a power washer.)

If, as seems almost certain, Ange's departure is confirmed, his successor will be stepping into a club that's in a robust position by every metric that counts. This isn't a case of a team simply resting on the laurels of a treble win. Even champion teams can age together or reach the end of a cycle. But this Celtic squad? It doesn't feel like that. None of our key players are nearing the end of their contracts this summer. 

Players like Kyogo, Greg Taylor, and Carl Starfelt all have two years remaining on their contracts, while others like Callum McGregor, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Reo Hatate, Matt O’Riley, Daizen Maeda, and Liel Abada have three, and Jota and Alistair Johnston have four. It's also a youthful group. Among the first eleven's outfield players, the “ridiculously successful” McGregor is the oldest at 29.

That said, Ange would surely be eyeing a few of those players for his next project and one challenge will be to retain players and keep them happy and motivated for next season's endeavours. (Memories of Olivier Ntcham's lengthy dummy-spitting exercise after being denied a move to Porto have not yet faded.)

McGregor has emerged as a pivotal figure – the captain we all hoped and believed he could be after replacing Scott Brown and any new manager will have a captain they can rely on to keep driving the team forward. 

CalMac resisted the lure of the English Premier League before, after the departure of Brendan Rodgers, and we can only hope he would do so again.

Under Ange, our players have improved technically, tactically and in terms of the amazing resilience that seemed to take even the manager by surprise.

For me, it was telling to hear so many players refer to “hard work” at the end of our treble-winning cup victory. Yes, it's normal to refer to graft and sacrifices at such times but the fact it came to so many players minds – with Greg Taylor referring to his predominant feeling being one of tiredness – says something about the professionalism and application that has marked the past two season.

Equally significant was Callum's reference to enjoying the treble for a short time but immediately emphasising that the team starts next season with “zero credit in the bank”. This is the sort of elite mentality that should give us real confidence that we can push on next season, with the right boss at the helm.

For Celtic, it is vitally important that the next manager has modern ideas and methods, has a support structure in place to enable him to achieve success on his own terms and, preferably, favours the style of play that the squad and coaches have been working on for the past two season.

That means more of the approach that Michael Nicholson has been able to adopt since he took over as Chief Executive and steering the club away from the instincts that guided Peter Lawwell in the role, now that he has returned as Chairman. 

There are still issues, all the same. Last week Ange warned that this may be the most challenging window they have faced for two years because of the prospect of attractive bids which could tempt some of their key men. How many of these offers may come from Spurs, we'll have to see.

But we will also need either increased investment in the squad or a specialist in unearthing diamonds, as Ange has been, if we are to move forward, not backwards, next season.

If this is it, the end of the road for the man from Down Under, he has been an outstanding Celtic manager who leaves us riding high.

But, until we actually reach the top, we must - as a wise man said - never stop!

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Jay Baruchel: the BlackBerry star is a proud member of the Celtic family and will be cheering us on in the Scottish Cup Final

For Celtic supporters, it's always a buzz to see our club getting recognition from unexpected quarters. 

Right now, it's none other than long-standing Celtic man, Jay Baruchel, the star of the critically acclaimed film "BlackBerry," who's been proudly waving the green and white flag.

Actor and comedian Baruchel, has been a Celtic supporter for many years, a fact that he is celebrates with pride. 

His passion for the Hoops is so profound that he even starred in a documentary titled "Celtic Soul," where he embarked on a journey to explore his Celtic roots alongside US-based  Irish sports journalist, Eoin O'Callaghan.

Celtic Soul is a touching and often very funny tribute to our club and our Irish heritage as O'Callaghan takes the proudly Jewish-Irish-Canadian Baruchel on a geographical, historical and emotional pilgrimage, showcasing the deep connection and camaraderie that binds supporters across the globe as the Celtic family, however they find their way to paradise.

Baruchel is very much a heart-on-sleeve Celtic fan and was visibly moved when presented with a Hoops shirt by Canon White on a visit to St Mary's in the Calton.

Jay and Eoin also get to go behind the scenes at  Lennoxtown (in the Ronny Deila era), evening taking part in a cross-bar challenge with Scott Brown and Charlie Mulgrew.

If anything took the gloss off the feelgood factor of the film, it's Baruchel's disconcerting habit of encouraging our players with cries of "AttaBhoy!" (O'Callaghan fails to correct him on this.)

Presumably in the seven years since Celtic Soul was released Baruchel has learned the more acceptable, "Gaun yirsel, big man!"

The BlackBerry film, in which Baruchel stars, has been receiving rave reviews - currently Rotten Tomatoes has a 92%-positive viewers rating with 98% of critics giving it a positive reception.

Baruchel's own performance has been widely acclaimed and looks set to propel Jay to new heights in his career.

As we gear up for the Scottish Cup final against Inverness Caledonian Thistle and a possible record-breaking eighth domestic treble - which would be our fifth in seven years - no doubt Baruchel will be chanting, "Come on you Bhoys in Green," in unison with Celtic fans across the world.

Speaking of "BlackBerry," it's worth noting that Baruchel's co-star in the film, best known for his role in the hit comedy series "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia". (UK and Ireland viewers will know the Sunny star, Danny De Vito better.)

Howerton's "It's Always Sunny" co-star, Rob McElhenney, along with Ryan Reynolds are, of course, the owners of Wrexham FC.

We don't know if Baruchel has been evangelising the Good Word of Celtic to Howerton or if they may some day decide to follow McIlhenny and Reynolds into the world of football.

But maybe an appeal from Hollywood's most happening Celtic fan might persuade Ange Postecoglou to stay for another season?

Baruchel and BlackBerry look destined for next year's Oscars ceremony in Hollywood.

It's not in quite the same league as collecting a treble-winning Scottish Cup at Hampden - but it's not bad!

Remembering Billy McNeill: A towering figure in Celtic's rich history

On the sombre anniversary of Billy McNeill's passing in 2019, it is only fitting that we cast our minds back to the days when his towering presence commanded the heart of Celtic's defence As the iconic captain of the legendary Lisbon Lions, the first British side to lift the European Cup, Billy McNeill left an indelible mark on the beautiful game, not just in Glasgow, but across the continent.

Affectionately known as 'Cesar' for his resemblance to Cesar Romero in Ocean's Eleven, Billy was a symbol of unwavering loyalty and dedication. He was a player whose commitment to the green and white hoops of Celtic was absolute. In an era when the notion of a one-club man was far from a rarity, McNeill's 18-year playing career at Celtic Park, encompassing 790 appearances, still stands as a shining example of unwavering devotion to the cause.

In the shadows of the shipyards and tenements of Glasgow's East End, a Bellshill colossus strode forth, his granite-like determination and unyielding spirit making him a natural leader of men. Billy's physical presence belied the astute footballing brain that lay beneath, and his calm, composed demeanour in the face of adversity gave his teammates the fortitude to march on, even when the odds seemed insurmountable.

Under the guidance of the great Jock Stein, Billy flourished, his talent and work ethic recognized and nurtured by the genius that was Stein. Together, they forged a side that would forever etch its name into the annals of footballing history. The storied day in Lisbon, when Celtic defeated the formidable Inter Milan to clinch the European Cup, would define Billy's legacy. As he hoisted that trophy aloft, the pride and joy of an entire nation swelled within him, his broad shoulders carrying the hopes and dreams of countless Celtic supporters.

The bond between Billy and the Celtic faithful was one forged in the fires of countless battles, both domestic and international. As a player and later as a manager, he guided his beloved club through the tumultuous landscape of Scottish football, where the rivalry with Rangers threatened to overshadow the beautiful game. Yet, amidst the chaos, Billy's stoic leadership and unwavering moral compass ensured that the sport's essence was never lost.

Beyond the field, Billy's affable nature endeared him to fans and foes alike. His humility and grace in victory or defeat showcased the true spirit of sportsmanship. His rapport with the fans was legendary, and Billy understood the importance of their unwavering support. In return, he gave them his all, every time he donned the Celtic jersey.

As a manager, Billy's success mirrored his playing career, and his tactical acumen was evident as he led Celtic to numerous domestic titles.

It is no exaggeration to say that Billy McNeill was a central figure in the golden era of Scottish football. Alongside the Lisbon Lions, he set the benchmark for future generations of players, instilling in them a burning desire to succeed and an unwavering commitment to the club's values. His impact on the Scottish game, both as a player and manager, is a testament to his enduring passion for football.

As we remember Billy, we are reminded of a man who transcended the sport, a figure of towering stature whose impact on the world of football was immeasurable. For many, Billy embodied the very spirit of Celtic, and his memory continues to inspire generations of players and supporters alike

A we stand in quiet contemplation, we remember a man who was more than just a footballer. We remember a leader, a symbol, and a true legend of the game. Billy McNeill may be gone, but his legacy will forever live on in the hearts and minds of the Celtic family. Hail Cesar, and may you rest in eternal peace.

They said about Billy McNeill

• Jock Stein: "Billy McNeill is a born leader. He has an inborn ability to command and lead men."
• Sir Alex Ferguson: "Billy McNeill was a giant in Scottish football, a man with an incredible presence, and I'll always cherish the fact that we entered professional football at the same time."
• Sir Kenny Dalglish:"Celtic meant everything to Billy McNeill. He was a fantastic servant, a great captain, and a great manager."
• Pat Bonner: "Billy McNeill was a man of great stature, great presence, and great leadership. He was an icon in the world of football."
• Willie Wallace: "Billy McNeill was the type of man you'd want beside you in the trenches. He was a true leader and a great friend."
• Graeme Souness: "I respected Billy McNeill immensely. He was a great competitor, a great football man, and a great man off the pitch."
• Bertie Auld, former Celtic teammate: "Billy McNeill was a born leader, a captain on and off the park. He was a great man to have beside you."
• Roy Aitken: "Billy McNeill was a colossus in the game. His stature, presence, and leadership qualities were second to none."
• Brendan Rodgers: "Billy McNeill was a man of great integrity, a fantastic leader and someone regarded as Celtic royalty."
• Neil Lennon: "Billy McNeill was a huge influence on me when I was at Celtic. He had a presence that you can't buy, and he's left a legacy that will never be forgotten."

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