All attention will be fixed on Ibrox this upcoming weekend as Rangers square off against Celtic in the Old Firm derby, yet every one of the 12 Scottish Premiership teams have significant stakes in play before the split. With just two matches remaining for most teams, the outlook for the second half of the season hangs in the balance.
Hearts are set for a top-six finish but are eager to end the season on a high note as they face St. Mirren, while Hibernian in seventh place will likely need victories against St. Johnstone and Motherwell to break into the top group. As the excitement builds for a pivotal weekend of football, here are some of the key stories leading up to the matches.
Neil Warnock suggests that Aberdeen could challenge Celtic and Rangers for the title with astute summer signings, envisioning a competitive showing as early as next season. The 75-year-old departed Pittodrie after a brief stint of 34 days in charge, emphasizing the importance of securing a permanent manager swiftly to kickstart preparations.
Warnock emphasized, “To compete next year, the focus must be on recruiting players capable of performing at that level. That was my primary counsel to the club,” adding, “Bringing in established talents rather than solely relying on data-driven acquisitions can position them to challenge the top two of Celtic and Rangers.”
Barry Ferguson, the former Rangers midfielder, is warning that the victor of Sunday’s Old Firm derby could very well clinch the Scottish Premiership title in May, with growing confidence in Philippe Clement’s Celtic to lift the trophy. A win on Sunday would nudge ‘Gers two points ahead at the top, holding a game in hand before the split in April.
Ferguson expressed his sentiments, saying, “While I refrain from assuming outcomes, I firmly believe that the winner of the Old Firm clash will likely secure the championship,” continuing, “My gut feeling leans towards my former club emerging victorious. I anticipate a fierce battle between both teams, but I can’t shake off the vibe that Rangers will prevail once the dust settles.”