Two familiar faces were spotted in the stands at Celtic Park on Saturday, with Jens Berthel Askou and David Gray both keeping a close eye on proceedings.
It wasn’t a casual visit. The Motherwell and Hibernian managers had every reason to be there, with both of their teams playing a part in how Celtic’s season could unfold over the coming weeks.
For Gray, the focus is immediate. Hibs are up against league leaders Heart of Midlothian, and the outcome of that game could shift the balance at the top. Their last meeting at Easter Road ended in a 3-2 win for Hibs, so there’s belief they can take something again.
Askou, meanwhile, has his own challenge. Motherwell head to face Rangers, looking to snap a five-game winless run. It’s not the form you want heading into a fixture like that, but the stakes are clear — any result there could ripple straight back into the title race.
And that’s the bigger picture. Celtic are right in the middle of it, sitting second, level on points with Hearts but behind on goal difference. Rangers aren’t far off either, ready to pounce if results swing their way.
Next weekend only adds to the intrigue. Celtic travel to Easter Road, while Motherwell take on Falkirk. Saturday, then, felt less like a day out and more like advance scouting for what’s coming next.
There’s also a quieter subplot running in the background.
Askou’s name has been mentioned, albeit loosely, in connection with the Celtic job. Nothing concrete has come of it, but his work at Motherwell hasn’t gone unnoticed, especially with his side still pushing for a European spot.
Whether that’s enough to put him firmly in the frame is up for debate. But with Celtic still to settle on a long-term direction, it’s no surprise a few extra eyes are watching closely — from both the touchline and the stands.
