A great performance with plenty of Celtic goals would be ideal

Later today we will start the defence of our title as we raise the flag before taking on St Mirren as we aim to start the campaign in winning fashion.

With the Govan Galacticos dropping points at Fir Park yesterday it’s vital that we take full advantage and create a gap which will pile the pressure on even at this early stage. That’s what’s happened over the last few seasons and it’s always ended well for Celtic so let’s make sure we give the TEAM and the MANAGER our full support this afternoon and roar them on to victory.

It’s sure to be a wonderful occasion in front of a packed paradise who will witness the legend that is Paul McStay unfurl the flag as we start off a new campaign as Champions once more. We maybe take it for granted these days with 13 flag days at Celtic Park in 14 years but for The Maestro it was much tougher, especially in the first half of the 1990s.

Our side although weakened by the departure of Nicolas Kuhn and the lack of incomings, should still be strong enough to take all three points against a Buddies outfit who will undoubtedly prove a tough nut to crack.

The likes of returning hero Kieran Tierney and the highly rated Benjamin Nygren will undoubtedly start the game and add a new dimension to an already established core of players. And we’re likely to see James Forrest once again on the hunt for his first goal of the new season to maintain that awesome record of his.

Brendan Rodgers wants Celtic to show ambition and to progress in Europe and he wants to stay on as Celtic manager for the long term IF the Celtic Board show similar intent. It’s time that the manager is recognised in song and it should be loud and repeated throughout this season.  It’s no more than Brendan deserves.

A great performance with plenty of Celtic goals would be ideal, but all that really matters is that we start off the new campaign with a win, so even a 1-0 will do for me. There is simply no excuses not to take the points today and I’m sure that’s exactly what’s going to happen.

See you at Celtic Park!  Yes, Celtic are back!  Can’t wait to get over to Paradise.