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Sinisalo Set for Celtic Debut as Schmeichel Sidelined with Back Issue

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Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that veteran goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel will be unavailable for the team’s upcoming Scottish Cup fifth-round tie against Raith Rovers. The Danish shot-stopper has been dealing with a back complaint, forcing him to miss training sessions in the lead-up to the match. As a result, Celtic’s summer signing, Viljami Sinisalo, will make his long-awaited debut for the club.

Schmeichel had featured in the last two fixtures for Celtic, including their dominant 6-0 victory over Dundee, but signs of discomfort have now led the club to take a cautious approach with his fitness. Rodgers assured fans that while Schmeichel will miss this game, he is expected to be fit for the crucial Champions League play-off against Bayern Munich next Wednesday.

Sinisalo’s Big Opportunity

With Schmeichel sidelined, Celtic supporters will finally get to see their £1 million summer acquisition, Viljami Sinisalo, in action. The young Finnish goalkeeper was signed from Aston Villa, and Rodgers has expressed his confidence in the 22-year-old’s ability to step up when needed.

Speaking to the press, Rodgers praised Sinisalo’s dedication and work ethic, stating, “Like I’ve seen in pre-season with Viljami, he’s a young goalkeeper who came in and played those games really well. I’m really looking forward to seeing him make his debut.” The Celtic boss emphasized that Sinisalo has remained committed and prepared despite his limited playing time so far this season.

Patience and Development

When asked whether Sinisalo has been keeping himself fit while sitting on the bench, Rodgers dismissed any doubts about the goalkeeper’s readiness. He pointed out that Sinisalo had gained valuable experience at Aston Villa and during his loan spell at Exeter City, which has helped him develop a strong mentality.

Rodgers explained, “He knew coming into here he’s got a real top-class goalkeeper to learn from, so sometimes you have to invest your time into learning.” He further highlighted Sinisalo’s credentials, calling him a “very talented young goalkeeper” who has been patient and understands his role at this stage of his career.

Confidence in Sinisalo’s Abilities

Rodgers made it clear that he has full confidence in Sinisalo’s ability to step in and perform well for the team. “We took him in, we’d seen him play, obviously represented Finland as well. Very, very talented young goalkeeper has come in, been patient, understands the role at this point, so it’s really nice for him now to get the opportunity.”

The Finnish international has already shown glimpses of his potential in pre-season and in training sessions throughout the campaign. Now, he has the chance to prove himself on the big stage and potentially stake a claim for more minutes in the future.

James Forrest Injury Update

In addition to Schmeichel’s absence, Rodgers also provided an update on James Forrest’s recovery from the injury he sustained during Celtic’s League Cup final triumph over Rangers in December. The winger played through extra-time despite his injury, demonstrating his commitment to the team.

Rodgers stated that Forrest is progressing well in his rehabilitation and should be back on the pitch soon. However, he confirmed that the experienced attacker will not be available for the upcoming Scottish Cup fixture. “He shouldn’t be too far away from getting out onto the pitches, but he’s obviously not good for the weekend,” Rodgers informed reporters.

Looking Ahead

Despite the setback with Schmeichel’s injury, Celtic remains in a strong position heading into their cup tie against Raith Rovers. The game presents an excellent opportunity for Sinisalo to showcase his talent, and fans will be eager to see how the young goalkeeper handles the pressure of his first competitive start for the club.

With Schmeichel expected to return for the Champions League play-off against Bayern Munich, Celtic will be hoping to continue their strong run of form in both domestic and European competitions. Meanwhile, the club remains optimistic about Forrest’s recovery as they aim to have him back in action as soon as possible.

For now, all eyes will be on Sinisalo as he prepares to step between the posts for his Celtic debut, hoping to seize the moment and make a lasting impression.

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Man Utd star set to exit Old Trafford this summer snubs two transfer options

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Man Utd star set to exit Old Trafford this summer snubs two transfer options

Christian Eriksen’s time at Manchester United is winding down, and the Danish midfielder’s already crossing off a couple of destinations for his next chapter.

With his contract up this summer, he’s confirmed he’s leaving Old Trafford and Major League Soccer or a Danish homecoming aren’t in the cards.

The United brass, under Ruben Amorim’s new vision, won’t extend Eriksen’s deal. At 33, he’s still got fire in his legs and isn’t ready to slow down overseas or coast back home.

So, what’s next? “I don’t know yet. I haven’t made any firm decisions,” Eriksen told Danish outlet Tipsbladet.dk. “Before my cardiac arrest, I played in England for years, moved to Inter, and thought I’d never return. Two years later, I was back in England, and now I’ve been here for almost four years.”

He’s learned plans can flip fast. “Careers don’t always follow a set plan. I don’t have a checklist of things I need to do—I’ll see what comes and what’s best for me and my family,” he said.

Eriksen’s Next Stop: Not MLS or Denmark

One thing’s clear: no stateside stint or Danish Superliga swan song. “We won’t travel that far,” he said of MLS. “Not yet. It’s too early. I still feel like I have good years left abroad. In Denmark, players often return to focus on family and end their careers that way, but I don’t feel like I’m there yet.”

He’s keeping it about the game. “It’s purely about football and where my career stands now. Honestly, I’ve spent more time abroad than in Denmark during my career, so moving home would almost feel like moving to a new country. But we’re not there yet.”

What about old haunts like Ajax, who sniffed around last summer, or Brentford? “I’m not closing the door on anything. I’ll see what opportunities arise and whether they fit,” he said of Amsterdam. “That was last summer we’ll see where they stand this summer. It’s not just up to me; there has to be interest from their side too.”

Brentford’s a maybe too. “Whether it’s Brentford or not, I can’t say. But my intention isn’t to stay in England,” he noted. This isn’t like post-cardiac arrest days, proving he could still play. “Now, it’s just about waiting for the right opportunity and not making hasty decisions. If something feels right, I’ll take it.”

The ex-Spurs and Inter star’s got options and he’s playing it cool ‘til summer hits.

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Lionel Messi Sidelined for Argentina’s World Cup Qualifiers: What’s Going On?

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Lionel Messi Sidelined for Argentina’s World Cup Qualifiers: What’s Going On?

Argentina’s football squad is gearing up to face Uruguay and Brazil in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, but they’ll be missing their iconic captain, Lionel Messi.

The superstar’s fitness woes have struck again, keeping him out of the lineup for these crucial matches.

Messi’s latest setback came after Inter Miami’s clash with Atlanta United on Sunday. He played the full 90 minutes and even scored, but reports from Argentina say he felt muscle discomfort afterward.

That’s enough to rule him out for the qualifiers, adding to a season already peppered with absences.

This year alone, Messi sat out three Inter Miami games in early March due to a pulled muscle.

He only returned last Thursday, coming off the bench to score in a CONCACAF Champions Cup win. Now, this fresh injury has Argentina playing it safe.

Why Argentina’s Rolling Without Messi

Despite Messi’s absence, Argentina’s not sweating it too much. They’re topping the South American qualifying group with 25 points from 12 games five ahead of second-placed Uruguay.

The top six from CONMEBOL punch their ticket straight to the 2026 World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada, and the 2022 champs could lock it up in these next two.

They’ll take on Uruguay in Montevideo this Friday, then host Brazil in Buenos Aires on March 25.

Messi’s six goals make him the qualifying round’s leading scorer, so his boots will be missed but Argentina’s depth has them covered.

Elsewhere, Argentina’s also without injured Roma striker Paulo Dybala and River Plate’s Paulo Montiel. Brazil, sitting fifth with 18 points, won’t have Neymar either—he’s nursing a thigh injury.

The squad still looks stacked, though Emiliano Martinez in goal, Cristian Romero and Nicolas Otamendi anchoring the back, and firepower up top with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez. Messi might be out, but Argentina’s still gunning for that World Cup spot.

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Dougie Freedman quits role as Crystal Palace sporting director

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Dougie Freedman quits role as Crystal Palace sporting director

Crystal Palace sporting director Dougie Freedman is leaving the club after seven years in the role and is expected to take up a position in Saudi Arabia.

The 50-year-old, who previously played for and managed the Eagles, has been instrumental in shaping the club’s recruitment strategy and building a sustainable scouting structure.

Freedman’s Legacy at Crystal Palace

During his tenure, Freedman played a key role in identifying and signing talented players such as Marc Guehi, Adam Wharton, Michael Olise, and Eberechi Eze.

His work has helped establish a strong foundation for the club’s future success. While his next destination hasn’t been officially confirmed, reports suggest he has been offered a role with the Diriyah Company, which owns Saudi second-tier side Al-Diriyah.

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish praised Freedman’s contributions, stating, “Dougie has been instrumental in everything we have done over the past eight years and indeed had a huge impact before that as manager and, of course, as a player. I have enjoyed working with him immensely and wish him every success for the future.”

Freedman’s Farewell Message

In a heartfelt statement, Freedman expressed his gratitude to the club and its supporters. “I would like to extend my thanks to Steve Parish, the other owners, and to all the staff, managers, and players who have been at the club during my time here. It’s been an honour to represent the club, and I am incredibly proud of the work that’s been done in growing the football club into its current position.”

He also highlighted the promising future of the squad, saying, “To be leaving the club with a squad full of exciting talent led by an excellent manager, I truly believe the foundations are in place to be built upon.” Freedman thanked the fans for their unwavering support, adding, “Crystal Palace is and will always remain in my heart.”

Freedman is expected to stay with Crystal Palace on a short-term basis to assist with the transition and succession planning.

Long-term consultant Iain Moody may see his responsibilities expanded as the club looks to maintain the momentum built under Freedman’s leadership.

Freedman’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter for Crystal Palace, but his legacy of talent identification and squad development ensures the club is well-positioned for continued growth.

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