Celtic v Aberdeen – Nick Walsh with the whistle, Greg Aitken on VAR

With the second international break of the season now thankfully over, focus shifts onto Celtic’s top of the table clash with Aberdeen on Saturday afternoon at Celtic Park…

Callum McGregor celebrates scoring
St Johnstone v Celtic – Callum McGregor celebrates scoring our fourth goal of the game during the Scottish Premiership match at McDiarmid Park, Perth on Saturday September 28, 2024. Photo Jane Barlow

Both sides have won their first seven league outings starting their respective campaigns in perfect form. For Aberdeen, their resolve will be tested in what is undoubtedly the toughest test they’ll have faced yet.

Aberdeen Manager Jimmy Thelin talks to Kevin Nisbet
Dundee v Aberdeen Aberdeen Manager Jimmy Thelin talks to Kevin Nisbet during the Scottish Premiership match at Dens Park on 28 September 2024. Photo Stephen Dobson PSI

Aberdeen’s astonishing start to season

Jimmy Thelin’s team are the only side in UEFA’s top 50 ranked countries to have won every game they have played this season. The Swede has transformed the Dons and has got them into a habit they have not been used to in recent seasons: winning games.

For Brendan Rodgers, they too have been imperious domestically. Competing in nine games across the Premiership and Scottish League Cup, the Celts have won all nine, scoring 30 goals and have only conceded on four occasions.

Nick Walsh given the whistle

The encounter requires a strong referee. The Scottish FA have appointed Nick Walsh as the man in the middle for Saturday’s fixture at Celtic Park.

Assistant Referee’s David Roome and Dougie Potter are on linesman duties. Greg Aitken is on VAR and will be assisted by Jonathan Bell at Clydesdale House.

Nick Walsh to referee Celtic v Aberdeen clash
22 October 2022. Referee Nick Walsh signals a penalty to hearts after consulting var during the cinch Premiership match at Tynecastle. Photo Neil Hanna / Sportimage

Celtic looking to open a gap 

Saturday’s whistler Nick Walsh was also on international duty himself. He was in charge of Lithuania versus Romania last night in League C of the Nations League. He dished out five yellows cards in Vilnius with the away side winning 2-1.

Celtic will be looking to open up a three point gap ahead of their nearest challengers on Saturday with a statement victory. Given Aberdeen’s start to the season, there is a buzz from both sides heading into this eagerly anticipated match-up.

Conor Spence

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About Author

A current third year student studying History and Journalism, Media and Communications at the University of Strathclyde and now writing regularly about the Hoops for The Celtic Star.

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