Hotline

IT has been three decades since the muchloved Angus Og last graced the cartoon pages of this very newspaper but the big Highlander made a welcome return, of sorts, on the Hotline.

Celtic v Rangers, Angus? “Ochone” (Oh no!) would likely be his reply. But according to regular caller Jimmy Strangers, Tranent, Angus is the perfect parody for some of the build-up to Saturday’s first derby clash of the season.

He said: “Ochone, Ochone, as Angus Og would say. Celtic fans bleating like the sheep in that cartoon about how many players they have out with Covid-19 – then blame the national teams. These players tested positive on their first test therefore had it when they reached the national camps. Grow a pair, Celtic.”

And so began the latest instalment of Old Firm bickering with just a few days until the big one.

John Bruce said: “It’s been interesting listening to Celtic about their players who will have to miss the Old Firm game due to them testing positive for Covid.

“The health of players should be foremost but you would be forgiven for thinking Celtic were trying to influence the authorities into postponing the game.

“Is this the same Celtic who were happy to be awarded a title because the league was called early due to the coronavirus? And is this the same Celtic who are happy to boast about having the biggest squad and best resources in Scottish football?”

Right on cue, Robert McEwan, Glasgow, said: “I had a wee laugh at callers thinking Celtic are running scared. This is Celtic you’re talking about. It’s a squad game now and I’m happy with our squad serial winners.”

Steve McSherry, Uddingston, said: “There will be no excuse if Celtic don’t win. When you look at the