Case for the Defence?

As we approach two big games this week, both domestic and european, we are saddled with the problem that has been holding us back for years. Since the days of Mjallby, valgaeren and Bobo we have never had a tight defensive unit. We've had good defenders in that time no doubt but never a back four or three that consistently works well together. I think you only need to look at the other lot to see what a tight defence can do for you. Where does the problem lie, Poor players, poor coaching who knows? All I know is when it comes down to the crunch Celtic tend to lose some of the softest goals you will see in top flight football anywhere.

Currently our backline seems to be different every game, be it from injury, suspension or just plain old rotation. In my opinion last year our best centre back partnership was Big Dan and Rogne, going back to the new year game at Ibrox both were dominant and didn't let anything get past them. Unfortunately Rogne seems to be injury prone because I think he is easily the best centre half at the club and still young as well. Charlie mulgrew is a good centre half but gets shunted around into midfield one game then centre half then left back, he has been the better of the centre halves so far. Kelvin Wilson looked promising early on then had a mare at Ibrox, hopefully derby day nerves and can move on from that. Big Dan hasn't looked anywhere near commanding as last year. Although I thought he finished the game vs. ICT well winning plenty of headers. Then we come to Loovens, one word, liability. For those that think I may be harsh on him I'm afraid I won't apologise, a player of his height and physique is what you look for in a defender. However what we have is a big Dutch centre half who when the ball is in the air looks terrified to go near it. Sometimes players just aren't good enough and Mr Loovens fits that bill.

So where does that leave us for the next two games, our full backs look in condition, so at centre back we have the choice of Big Dan, a now fit Rogne, Charlie or (shuddering) Loovens. I know who I would go with, for udinese Dan and Rogne with mulgrew at left back for the cup tied El Khaddouri. For Tynecastle, Rogne and Mulgrew. Let me know What you think of this folks. We have good defenders at our club we just need the right combination. Here's hoping for Two wins in the next few days.

Hail Hail.