Celtic will face a player who knows them well when they line up against Bologna in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Lewis Ferguson, formerly of Aberdeen and Hamilton Academical, is part of the Bologna squad and will be looking to halt Martin O’Neill’s side as they chase a vital European victory.
While Bologna manager Vincenzo Italiano and his staff will have spent time analysing the Scottish champions and their form this season, Ferguson does not need extensive scouting. He has kept a close eye on events at Parkhead from a distance, including the managerial upheaval and the brief tenure of Wilfried Nancy.
Ferguson’s view on Celtic ahead of the Bologna test
Celtic’s campaign has been far from smooth, with performances dipping notably during Nancy’s short spell in charge before his dismissal after just over a month. Speaking at Bologna’s pre-match press conference, Ferguson acknowledged the changes in the Celtic dugout and the instability that followed.
Despite that, the Scotland midfielder believes the core strength of the team remains intact. He stressed that Celtic are still a formidable side, even if results and performances have fluctuated.
Ferguson explained that, from his experience, Celtic continue to boast quality throughout the squad. He pointed out that many of the players he previously faced are still at the club and remain influential figures, which in his view makes them a dangerous opponent regardless of recent turbulence.
Familiar faces still at Parkhead
Ferguson last came up against Celtic in 2022 while playing for Aberdeen, a match the Hoops won 3–2 at Pittodrie under Ange Postecoglou. He was on the scoresheet that day, but several players from that Celtic team are still part of the current squad.
Those who remain include Daizen Maeda, Jota, who is currently injured, Reo Hatate, captain Callum McGregor, Cameron Carter-Vickers, also sidelined, Anthony Ralston, Liam Scales, Stephen Welsh and James Forrest.
Their presence underlines why Ferguson believes Celtic remain a strong force heading into Thursday’s European clash.