The Celtic Underground

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

Despite what it says on the Celtic badge, the club was formed in November 1887.Just as there is sometimes confusion over this issue, so too are there arguments about why the club was founded.This latest podcast examines the influences of charity, religion, politics and business before reaching a conclusion.Every week, you can listen for free to more stories 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.fmSpreakerAudioboomYoutubeThe Celtic Underground Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. 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

Listen to the podcast and you’ll understand the title - Andrew & Matthew join Harry the victory over Rangers.* The first half was the best Celtic has played this season.* Celtic’s performance showed energy and aggression.* Coaching dynamics between O’Neill and Maloney are crucial.* VAR decisions continue to spark controversy.* MacGregor’s role is pivotal in midfield.* Celtic’s goal-scoring opportunities were abundant but not capitalized on.And if you’re the subscriber in my row at Hampden - sorry I never got your name!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 Celtic’s history, as well as the club’s many successes, there are also some genuinely sad tales too.One of these is about an early Celtic hero called Mick McKeown, who found on-field fame but eventual disaster away from football.This latest podcast tells the story of tragic Celt, Mick McKeown.Every week, you can listen for free to more stories 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

Ross Hall and me recorded a podcast this evening about the Hearts game that morphed into a discussion about recruitment and where it may have gone wrong (and that pod will be up for Subcribers this week). We finish the pod.Ross goes off to read badtime stories and I go to make a cup tea. Then what starts as a trickle of whatsapps from informed friends soon turns into an avalanche and at 9:44pm Celtic release a statement confirming the departure of Brendan. Then at 9:59pm we have the personal statement of our 34% shareholder and goodness gracious me!!!!Anyway, after stories and a cuppa, Ross and I jumped back on for this emergency podcast.Brendan’s gone.Wow!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

Celtic’s Record Scoreline130 years ago this week, a notable piece of Celtic history took place. Dundee came to Celtic Park and were hammered 11-0, and this is Celtic’s all-time record scoreline.This latest podcast tells the story of Celtic’s highest scoring games.Every week, you can listen for free to more stories 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

Preview:thecelticunderground.substack.com/p/coming-soon-the-academy-podcast-guestJosh and I could have spent hours on this discussion and it is something we plan to revisit in the future as it’s something we are both passionate about.We hope you enjoy.Ross 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