The Celtic Underground

135 years ago this week, the Celts had an important reason to ‘love’ Valentine’s Day.The Bhoys won what is considered to be their first major trophy, the Glasgow Cup.This latest podcast tells the 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.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutubeThanks for reading & listening to 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

This week, Harry and Andrew begin with a wander through childhood memories - growing up in the 1970s, when health-and-safety was optional, teeth were questionable, and television meant characters like Harry H. Corbett and Steptoe & Son. Those early reflections set the tone for a conversation about how upbringing, culture, and shared experience shape the way supporters view football today. Nostalgia gives way to a broader discussion about how fan expectations have evolved, and how moments of joy in football often land harder precisely because they sit alongside frustration, cynicism, and long memories.The emotionally draining cup win against Dundee was a game that summed up much of the current Celtic experience. Celtic’s struggles in midfield, questionable game management, and ongoing refereeing controversies are all examined, alongside wider concerns about why fans boycotted and the curent and the direction of the club. 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

The story of Jimmy Delaney80 years ago, the Celtic career of one famous Celt came to an end.Jimmy Delaney was a hugely popular figure at Celtic Park in the era of World War Two.This latest podcast tells 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 that visit the sites that have shaped the bhoys history. To find out more you can 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

There’s a glass half full and a glass half empty way of looking at this window. It’s a window where it’s possible to have multiple thoughts all happening at once and all seemingly contradictory.* Are we stronger today then we were going into the window? Absolutely.* Did the manager get his preferred options of 2x strikers, a right winger and a centre half. Again, absolutely.* Have the two we’ve seen so far looked like an upgrade on what was in the squad 31st December? You’d better believe it.* So all the fans will be delighted? Ehhhh…naw!The proof of the pudding in judging any window is how the players perform when here. We’ve secured 5 signings and people are understandably concerned that they are all loans. It’s what I expected with a temporary manager so I’m pretty ambivalent. It all looked like it was going south early evening and that is no doubt where so much of the fan angst is coming from. If you leave it to the last minute you give yourself no wriggle room.But do I think this window has made us more likely that we’ll win the title than if the players didn’t come in? 100%. Do I think the current boardroom will be the one that runs next January’s window? I’d be very surprised.Anyway, Andrew and me discuss all 5 newcomers (even though 1 was confirmed 10 mins after we’d finished).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 is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thecelticunderground.substack.comIn this episode, Humza Yousaf reflects on what it meant to be the first Scottish First Minister who was openly a supporter of Celtic Football Club, and why he chose authenticity over caution. (Issue with video for first 15 mins or so but up and running thereafter)He speaks candidly about the pressure, early in his political career, to downplay his love …

In January 1921, Celtic players gathered to celebrate the career of a remarkable club figure.By the time he retired, Alec McNair had spent an amazing 21 years in the Hoops, making him Celtic’s longest serving player.This latest podcast tells his life 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

Sunday was a match long on incident but short on quality. Celtic took the lead twice and twice allowed Hearts back into the game, in what was widely agreed to be a poor contest of football. The main talking point came at 2–1 Celtic, when Trusty was shown a yellow card that was later overturned to a red following VAR intervention by John Beaton. The bhoys argue why it should have remained a booking, and that the sending-off fundamentally altered a game that Celtic were still trying (and struggling) to control.Beyond the referee controversy, the discussion turns to deeper structural issues. Celtic’s tactical approach is criticised as blunt and ineffective, with individual performances (including Callum McGregor’s unusually low pass-completion) raising concerns about form and fatigue. The conversation widens to the transfer window, the recurring absence of a Director of Football, and the growing sense that Celtic are once again asking the same squad to solve the same problems. With Europe looming large and domestic margins tightening, the message is clear - We need to chase it, we need to strengthen the squad, and we need to get through in Europe.Whether the club has a coherent plan to do all three remains the big unanswered question. One week to find out.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

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…