Rangers legend Ally McCoist has tipped Hearts as his leading contenders for the Scottish Premiership title, while stressing that Celtic’s hopes would not be finished even if they slip up at Tynecastle.
The former Ibrox striker believes Rangers supporters will be quietly hoping for a stalemate in Gorgie, while Danny Röhl’s side look to make ground at home to Dundee, with both fixtures kicking off simultaneously.
McCoist has been hugely impressed by what he sees as one of the most compelling title races in recent Scottish football, admitting he is finding it difficult to split the top three with 16 matches still to play.
In his view, the closing days of the transfer window could prove decisive, as Hearts look to become the first club outside Celtic and Rangers to lift the trophy since Aberdeen achieved the feat in 1985. The 63 year old has now explained why he feels Derek McInnes’ side have the resilience and quality to go all the way after recent results under pressure.
Speaking to talkSPORT Bet, McCoist said: “I’d say 40 per cent Hearts, 30 per cent Rangers and 30 per cent Celtic. What we’re seeing just now is absolutely brilliant. It’s incredible that you can get odds against all three teams. Before I go any further though, I have to give credit to John McGlynn at Falkirk. Look where they were a couple of years ago, hovering around the lower reaches of the division.
“They were unlucky not to get something against Celtic last week when they lost 1-0. Because of that, them going to Tynecastle and knocking Hearts out of the cup was a surprise, but not a shock. McGlynn has done a phenomenal job and they are rightfully in the top six.”
McCoist went on to underline how important January business could be for the leading trio. He feels Celtic have been cautious rather than inactive, Rangers have already strengthened, and Hearts may sense a golden opportunity.
He added: “The transfer window is massive for all three. Celtic have been very careful so far. Some might say slow, but I’d say cautious. With Martin coming in, there has to be movement. Rangers have already brought in a few players and might not be finished. The beauty is that all three clubs will believe they can win it.”
Turning his focus back to Hearts, McCoist suggested owner Tony Bloom may see this season as a rare chance to break the traditional dominance at the top of the table.
“If Tony Bloom is sitting there looking at the league, he’ll be thinking he might not get a better opportunity than this. If I were him, I’d be investing to make the squad as strong as possible for the run in,” he said.
He also highlighted Hearts’ recent resilience, pointing out that their last two league wins came despite being reduced to 10 men. “That tells you a lot about them. They are not going anywhere,” McCoist added.
With Hearts hosting Celtic this weekend, McCoist dismissed suggestions that a home win would completely derail the champions’ title bid, but admitted it would be a huge moment.
“There’s talk that Hearts could end Celtic’s chances. I don’t see it that way, but it would open up a nine point gap, which is remarkable. Rangers, for their part, will be desperate for a draw in that one.”