The Celtic Underground

The Tragic Tale of Celtic’s First Tommy BurnsThis Burns Night, Celtic fans’ thoughts will be of Tommy, rather than Rabbie. However, the Celtic player and manager was not the first Bhoy with this name.The life of Celtic’s first Tommy Burns is a tale of tragedy and the dangers involved in football’s early days.Every week, you can listen for free to more tales from Celtic’s past, as told by Matthew Marr (Hail Hail History).You can also take part in free walking tours which visit the sites that have shaped the Bhoys’ history. To find out more, visit: www.celticwalkingtours.wordpress.comEnjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutubeThanks for reading The Celtic Underground Substack! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Andrew H in Conversation, Andrew sits down for an open, thoughtful chat about Celtic, its roots, and what the club has always meant to so many of its supporters. From the very beginning, Celtic was born out of solidarity, community and standing alongside those who needed help most. That spirit still matters to fans today, and it’s impossible to talk about modern Celtic culture without touching on the long-standing connection many supporters feel with the Palestinian cause, whether that’s through banners, flags, or vocal support from the stands.To chat this through, Andrew is joined by Jill Thomson from Scottish Sport for Palestine.Enjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

Over the years, the Celts have faced numerous teams who have later gone out of business.Some of these sides have notable places in Celtic history. This latest podcast tells these stories.Every week, you can listen for free to more tales from Celtic’s past, as told by Matthew Marr (Hail Hail History).You can also take part in free walking tours which visit the sites that have shaped the Bhoys’ history. To find out more, visit: www.celticwalkingtours.wordpress.comEnjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

This summer, Scotland will head to the Americas in their first World Cup since 1998.The national team could be playing in the USA, Canada or Mexico – all countries in which Celtic have played at least once.This podcast tells the interesting and sometimes controversial story of Celtic in the Americas.Every week, you can listen for free to more tales from Celtic’s past, as told by Matthew Marr (Hail Hail History).You can also take part in free walking tours which visit the sites that have shaped the Bhoys’ history. To find out more, visit: www.celticwalkingtours.wordpress.comEnjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode we get straight into the fall-out from pulling the plug on Wilfred Nancy after just 33 (thirty three) days. It’s one of those situations where you can feel sorry for the guy on a human level, but still accept it simply wasn’t working. The performances were grim, the fit was clearly wrong, and the decision (harsh as it looks) was inevitable. We talk about how this sort of thing isn’t actually new in football, but how social media has poured petrol on the fire, ramping up pressure, shortening patience, and making every bad result feel like a crisis. And inevitably, that brings us back to the board: not so much the sacking itself, but why we ended up here in the first place.From there, the chat moves on to what comes next and why Martin O’Neil’s return is about steadying the ship and getting back to basics. There’s a belief that confidence, so clearly missing, can come back quickly with clarity and authority, but only if recruitment finally starts making sense alongside the manager rather than cutting across him. With winnable games coming up, there’s a chance to reset the mood and get a bit of momentum going again. But the wider point is clear: Celtic need a plan, not just another reaction. Accountability, joined-up thinking, and a proper football vision are long overdue because misery might love company, but it’s not something the club can afford to keep around.Enjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

2 January 2026 will mark the 55th anniversary of the Ibrox Disaster.This 1971 tragedy claimed the lives of 66 football fans, a catastrophe that affected families and communities across Scotland.This podcast tells the story of Celtic and the Ibrox Disaster.Every week, you can listen for free to more tales from Celtic’s past, as told by Matthew Marr (Hail Hail History).You can also take part in free walking tours which visit the sites that have shaped the Bhoys’ history. To find out more, visit: www.celticwalkingtours.wordpress.comEnjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

Tomorrow, Celtic fans around the world will celebrate Christmas. In the past, they could also have gone to watch the Bhoys in action.This podcast tells the story of Celtic’s last Christmas Day game.Every week, you can listen for free to more tales from Celtic’s past, as told by Matthew Marr (Hail Hail History).You can also take part in free walking tours which visit the sites that have shaped the Bhoys’ history. To find out more, visit: www.celticwalkingtours.wordpress.comEnjoy…(and Merry Christmas)Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

This podcast starts with Harry asking Andrew & Matthew about the Aberdeen game and discussions around the game last for about 10 minutes before, in our usual way, they meander into a completely different topic where we discuss the squad Nancy inherited, the fan anger and whether it’s justified and the inherent causes. Someone once described our podcast as a Celtic fan equivalent of TMS. I think in this episode you can see why.Oh and then the bhoys are asked - if you could have one Celtic present from Santa, what would it be.Ho Ho Ho - Merry Christmas to you and yours from all here at Celtic Underground.Enjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

Andrew and John discuss John’s book ‘Jungle Days’, exploring the deep connections between Celtic Football Club, Irish identity, and political consciousness. They reflect on the historical significance of Celtic as a cultural institution, the role of community in shaping identity, and the ongoing tensions between fans and the club’s leadership. The discussion also touches on the club’s anti-racism stance and its relevance in today’s socio-political climate, as well as personal memories of supporting Celtic during the 1980s.By the author of This Boxing Game: A Journey in Beautiful Brutality, this engrossing book is perfect for all Celtic fans and anyone interested in social history.During the tempestuous 1980s, when Thatcher and Thatcherism ruled the roost, Wight found sanctuary and meaning in Celtic FC.The book is out now and you can pick it up in most good book shopsEnjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

Celtic’s final match of 2025 involves a visit to Lanarkshire to face Motherwell.This will be an appropriate way to end the year that marked Fir Park’s 130th anniversary.In 1895, Celtic were the first team to visit, and over the years it’s been a big part of Celtic history.This podcast tells the story of Celtic and Fir Park.Every week, you can listen for free to more tales from Celtic’s past, as told by Matthew Marr (Hail Hail History).You can also take part in free walking tours which visit the sites that have shaped the Bhoys’ history. To find out more, visit: www.celticwalkingtours.wordpress.comEnjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

Following defeat to Roma, the murmurings of negativity and uncertainty around the appointment of Nancy have increased from some online fans and the main press. For those who just want Celtic to win every game and every trophy, this cup final on Sunday is big and it’s even bigger for Nancy to prove that with time on the training pitch he can make Celtic an appealing prpospect.Andrew & Ross join Hary to review Roma and preview St Mirren.Enjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

30 years ago (12 December 1995), one Celtic servant celebrated his significant place in the club’s history.Paul McStay – a one-club player – marked his years in green-and-white with a testimonial game. This is his story.Every week, you can listen for free to more tales from Celtic’s past, as told by Matthew Marr (Hail Hail History).You can also take part in free walking tours which visit the sites that have shaped the Bhoys’ history. To find out more, visit: www.celticwalkingtours.wordpress.comEnjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thecelticunderground.substack.comSouness had arrived at Rangers along with the England Captain, Goalkeeper and right back. They were the Hollywood team of Britain and things looked bleak when all we could muster was the signing of a young Andy Walker from Motherwell. Andy and McAvennie went on to form a dynamic front two that secured a Centenray Season double and etch their names int…

60 years ago, The Celtic View was published for the first time.The Celts’ in-house newspaper was once a staple of the weekly experiences of all Celtic fans. This is its full story.Every week, you can listen for free to more tales from Celtic’s past, as told by Matthew Marr (Hail Hail History).You can also take part in free walking tours which visit the sites that have shaped the Bhoys’ history. To find out more, visit: www.celticwalkingtours.wordpress.comApple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

Recorded: 19/11/2025I had the absolute pleasure of spending an hour chatting with MLS and NWSL analyst Catalina Bush about all things Wilfried Nancy, with a little World Cup talk thrown in at the end. If you’d like to learn more about Catalina and the ASA, you’ll find the links below.A huge thanks again to Catalina. She was an outstanding guest, genuinely brilliant to speak with, and I’ve no doubt that once she graduates she’ll become a top-class analyst (Celtic take note). It’s easy to see why she was recommended to me, and I’m excited to see where her journey takes her.Hope your all enjoy this as much as I did.Ross HLinks:Catalina BushAmerican Soccer AnalysisAmerican Soccer Analysis (@americansocceranalysis.com) — Bluesky This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

Celtic beat St Mirren on Saturday night. That’s about all we can say, but the bhoys try their best to spend more than 10 mins reviewing the game. Next up is Feyenoord followed by Hibs and we debate how Martin O’Neil is likely to approach what is almost certainly going to be his final 2 games in football management before the arrival of Nancy.Enjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

In 1903, the Celts switched to their new world famous hooped shirts.However, the Bhoys are not the only club to pull on green-and-white hoops; many others clubs have done so too.This is the story of many of those sides, including this weekend’s opponents, Hibs.Every week, you can listen for free to more tales from Celtic’s past, as told by Matthew Marr (Hail Hail History).You can also take part in free walking tours which visit the sites that have shaped the Bhoys’ history. To find out more, visit: www.celticwalkingtours.wordpress.comEnjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

The 2025 Celtic AGM started badly and went downhill from there!Straight after the AGM, Andrew and I retired to the car park and the warmth of the car. Well I say straight, we chatted with a few people offering differing opinions on the events, dodged the waiting media outside and then retired to the car to record this podcast.If you followed on twitter you’ll know that it was “interesting”.Members of the CU community wcan listen right now, whilst others will need to wait until the morning.Enjoy…Apple podcastsSpotifyAmazonPlayer.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

This weekend, the Celts head to St Mirren Park in Paisley.Celtic were the first club to play at the original St Mirren Park – better known as Love Street – but this is just one venue where the Bhoys were the first visitors.This latest podcast tells many of these stories.Every week, you can listen for free to more tales from Celtic’s past, as told by Matthew Marr (Hail Hail History).You can also take part in free walking tours which visit the sites that have shaped the Bhoys’ history. To find out more, visit: www.celticwalkingtours.wordpress.comEnjoy…Thanks for reading The Celtic Underground Substack! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe

Celtic and the First World War105 years ago, the Celts took part in a game which played a role in commemorating the tragic events of World War One.Like all other people and football clubs, the Celts were hugely affected by events during the 1914-1918. This latest podcast tells that story.Every week, you can listen for free to more tales from Celtic’s past, as told by Matthew Marr (Hail Hail History).You can also take part in free walking tours which visit the sites that have shaped the Bhoys’ history. To find out more, visit: www.celticwalkingtours.wordpress.comEnjoy… This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecelticunderground.substack.com/subscribe