Celtic Defender Gustaf Lagerbielke Praises Aberdeen’s Challenge. Ignoring Rangers to Celtic, Takes Subtle Dig at Rangers
On-loan Celtic defender Gustaf Lagerbielke has expressed admiration for Aberdeen’s strong start to the Scottish Premiership season, subtly taking a dig at Rangers in the process. Lagerbielke, currently playing for FC Twente, has been keeping tabs on his former manager Jimmy Thelin’s progress at Pittodrie.
Aberdeen’s Impressive Run
The Dons are second in the Scottish Premiership table, maintaining an unbeaten record alongside Celtic. Lagerbielke praised Thelin’s achievement, highlighting the significance of Aberdeen’s challenge to Celtic’s dominance.
“It’s incredibly big. Celtic and Rangers have won every title since the 80s. So the fact that someone else is involved, at least for a little while, is great. And then you’re nine points ahead of Rangers too, which is really cool.”
Lagerbielke’s Connection to Thelin
The Swedish defender played under Thelin at Elfsborg before joining Celtic. He has maintained contact with his former manager and is delighted with Aberdeen’s success.
“We’ve had some contact during our time in Scotland and also before he moved there. So it’s great that it’s going so well. It’s fantastic to be undefeated for so long and to take up the fight with Celtic, it’s incredibly well done.”
Lagerbielke’s Celtic Future Uncertain
The defender’s comments on Aberdeen’s challenge come amidst uncertainty surrounding his own Celtic future. Lagerbielke is currently on loan at FC Twente, where he has struggled for first-team minutes.
In 16 fixtures, Lagerbielke has made only six appearances, with five coming off the bench. His sole 90-minute appearance came in the 2-2 Europa League draw with Nice.
FC Twente’s Potential Permanent Move
Lagerbielke has expressed hope that Twente will make his move permanent. However, his limited playing time may hinder this possibility.
“Celtic and I have a contract, but there is a possibility that Twente will make the move permanent. I’m happy here and enjoy playing in the Eredivisie.”
Celtic’s Domestic Dominance
Celtic’s reign as Scottish Premiership champions is under threat from Aberdeen’s impressive start. Brendan Rodgers’ team will face increased pressure to maintain their dominance.
Rangers’ Position
Rangers’ third-place position, nine points behind Aberdeen, has sparked concern among fans. Lagerbielke’s comments underscore the significance of Aberdeen’s challenge to Celtic’s dominance.
Conclusion
Gustaf Lagerbielke’s praise for Aberdeen’s challenge to Celtic highlights the competitiveness of the Scottish Premiership. As Lagerbielke navigates his uncertain Celtic future, Aberdeen’s success serves as a reminder of the league’s unpredictability.
Related Topics:
Gustaf Lagerbielke
Celtic FC
Aberdeen FC
Scottish Premiership
Jimmy Thelin
Sources:
GRV Media Ltd.
Getty Images
Additional Sections:
Gustaf Lagerbielke’s Career Statistics
- Games: 50
- Goals: 2
- Assists: 3
- Clean Sheets: 15
Jimmy Thelin’s Managerial Record
- Elfsborg (2018-2022)
- Aberdeen FC (2023-present)
Aberdeen FC’s Current Form
- Position: 2nd
- Points: 25
- Goals scored: 20
- Goals conceded: 10
Celtic FC’s Current Form
- Position: 1st
- Points: 28
- Goals scored: 25
- Goals conceded: 12
Scottish Premiership Table
- 1. Celtic FC (28 points)
- 1. Aberdeen FC (25 points)
- 1. Rangers FC (16 points)