Celtic fans can smell Rangers fear after Jota jackpot but Saudi millions will be giving Brendan itchy feet - Hotline

Jota sealed his megabucks move to Saudi Arabia and Celtic fans are looking for instant recompense.

The Portuguese’s switch to Al-Ittihad has poured more millions into the Parkhead coffers and boss Brendan Rodgers now has the task of spending it astutely with the Parkhead side hunting some big deals. Alan Ryan, Carluke, said: “Celtic had cash. Now they have more cash. So I’m looking for some big investments and exciting arrivals.” Robert Dale, Penicuik, added: “Rodgers must have a plan along with the board and I’m excited by what is coming next.” Willie McCourt, Hamilton, did warn: “I heard it said that Celtic now have a Champions League budget. Are you joking? Newcastle are back into the group stage for the first time in years and have just spent £55 million on the boy Tonali from AC Milan. One player. They’ve spent £300 million since their new owners arrived. Celtic can’t get near that.”

Ex-Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has also headed for Saudi and had his decision to switch to the Middle East lambasted by pundit Simon Jordan. But Frank McFerran, Carrickfergus, said: “It angers me when multi-millionaires like Jordan take issue with players and managers going to Saudi Arabia for their football. These players will be debt free for the rest of their lives.”

John Brice added: “There’s no doubt that it was a strange sight seeing Gerrard in Al Ettifaq’s colours for the first time. But that all pales into insignificance when it is remembered that he led Rangers to 55 and stopped ten-in-a-row. So he will always be seen as a Rangers legend.” Derek Morris, Stirling, quipped: “With Gerrard on £12 million per year, Brendan must be getting itchy feet.”

Gerrard’s old assistant Michael Beale is currently adding to his squad