The Record Sport team tackles the big topics, including Celtic’s huge Champions League tie against Bayern Munich.
Will Celtic overcome Bayern Munich over two legs to reach the Champions League last 16?
Keith Jackson:
It’s unlikely. However, if Celtic can inflict a real beating on the Germans in Glasgow on Wednesday, they might keep their hopes alive heading into the Allianz. Daizen Maeda will be sorely missed for the first leg, but Celtic could still muster enough attacking punch to catch Bayern off guard.
Fraser Wilson:
At their very best, Celtic can secure a result in Glasgow regardless of Bayern’s strength. I can picture a draw that they take into Germany, though over the two legs the Bundesliga giants’ superior quality should eventually prevail.
Andy Newport:
It appears very doubtful. Despite Celtic’s impressive strides in Europe this year, Bayern are operating at a level or two above where Brendan Rodgers currently has his side.
Scott Burns:
It’s going to be a tall order. Even though Bayern may not be as overpowering as in past seasons, they remain heavy favorites. Rodgers’s team has done well to reach this stage and will be eager to maintain their momentum in Germany.
Will Philippe Clement survive at Rangers?
Keith:
If he does, it’ll only be because he’s working under a board that isn’t up to scratch. While Patrick Stewart may have hoped to avoid a drastic move, the CEO now needs to realize that doing nothing isn’t an option.
Fraser:
The board seemed committed to backing the manager until season’s end, but this defeat could shift their stance. It’s a disastrous result regardless of any in-game dominance. With the domestic season effectively over by February 9, this outcome reflects badly on everyone at Ibrox.
Andy:
He’s in serious trouble now. His leadership once got the beleaguered Belgian into the Europa League last 16, but the fans have had enough of Clement and his inconsistent side. He might continue on while the board dithers, yet the supporters have made their views abundantly clear.
Scott:
After a result like this, he really shouldn’t be given another chance. He seems to keep evading the final blow, but the question remains whether the board even has the funds to sack him.
There are increasing calls for Scottish football to do away with VAR. What’s your take?
Keith:
The technology itself works well—it’s the people using it who are at fault. VAR is an essential tool designed to help referees get the critical decisions right; the officials just need to use it properly.
Fraser:
I say it’s time to chuck it out entirely—throw away the bin and burn it. Despite promises of improvement, it’s only getting worse. It’s painful to hear Willie Collum admit that his referees are making mistakes every week. VAR is ruining the fan experience and costing clubs money without delivering much in return.
Andy:
I’m not against the technology per se; it’s all about how it’s implemented. There have been some positive changes since Willie Collum took charge, but more improvements are needed. If clubs are serious about refining it, they should invest in making sure those running it are full-time professionals.
Scott:
I’m 100% in favor of scrapping VAR. It’s become an expensive sideshow that adds little value to the game. Unless we can truly fix it, I’d vote to do away with it completely.
After pushing Hibs so hard on Friday night, is Scott Brown gearing Ayr United up for top-flight action?
Keith:
They certainly seem to be on the right track. But if Brown can lead his squad to a championship win or through the play-offs, they’ll need a bit of extra cash to boost the quality required to stay in the top division.
Fraser:
Absolutely. Brown and Steven Whittaker are doing an outstanding job. They haven’t splashed the cash on big-name signings; instead, they’ve molded a modest squad into a cohesive unit that’s solid at the back with a potent attack up front. It might not happen this season, but under Brown, they could well be a Premiership team soon.
Andy:
Scott Arfield and his new Falkirk teammates might disagree, but one thing is clear: we’re in for an exciting finale to the Championship season.
Scott:
Ayr United should be competing at the top, as they are among the biggest spenders in the Championship. However, I still believe Falkirk will ultimately prevail and secure back-to-back promotions—their late surge in the transfer market could be the decisive factor.
