‘Celtic inadequacy laid bare after uncomfortable St. Mirren victory’
Celtic made a winning start to their latest Scottish Premiership title defence on Sunday, but it certainly wasn’t all smooth sailing.
The Hoops won the title for the 13th time in 14 seasons in 2024/25, taking them to 55 overall — level with Rangers and needing only one more to overtake their arch-rivals for the first time since the 1920s.
It was St. Mirren who came to Parkhead as Celtic looked to make a statement, but the Paisley side put in a strong defensive showing to frustrate their hosts.
It took until the 87th minute for substitute Luke McCown to find the winner, which may already prove to be a valuable goal after Rangers drew 1-1 with Motherwell on Saturday.
Celtic wasteful against St. Mirren
Celtic have been heavily linked with a new striker this summer, and on the basis of Sunday’s showing, it’s easy to see why.
Brendan Rodgers’ men were often frustrated by St. Mirren, but still managed 14 shots and 1.73 xG (FotMob).
But Celtic were very wasteful, missing two big chances and missing the target with eight of their shots, with the likes of Adam Idah and Daizen Maeda missing golden opportunities.
Celtic hit the woodwork four times, so there is an element of bad luck that can be blamed. However, it’s clear that this side needs a natural finisher to complete the puzzle — especially if they want to make progress in the Champions League and cup competitions.
Celtic to step up striker search
Despite Celtic outscoring Rangers 112-80 last season, it was the latter who boasted the league’s top scorer, with Cyriel Dessers netting 18 times.
Even before Sunday’s misfire, Celtic were being linked with numerous strikers.
Napoli’s Giuseppe Ambrosino is a recurring name from this summer, while Jamie Vardy has also been mentioned as an ambitious free agent swoop, despite interest from Rangers.
Vardy, in particular, would add incredible pedigree and experience, with his eye for goal not slowing down after netting 10 goals for a poor Leicester side last season at 38 years old.
| 2024/25 Premier League stats | Jamie Vardy |
| Appearances | 35 |
| Goals | 9 |
| xG | 11.2 |
| Shots on target | 26 |
A tough away trip to Aberdeen awaits next weekend, and the Dons are a side capable of punishing anyone on their day — especially at Pittodrie.
Celtic’s need was already quite urgent, with Maeda linked with a Premier League switch.
But Rodgers will have watched his side’s profligacy on Sunday and likely confirmed in his own mind that a striker is now the top priority.