For many, many years, Celtic have been raking in title after title, and normally with dominance and ease.
But this season, even if Martin O’Neill leads Celtic to Premiership title number 56, it’s going to be one of the toughest and most demanding victories ever.
That was shown on Sunday when ten-man Celtic drew 2-2 with Hearts, and dropped into third position in the Premiership table.
As Hearts and Celtic were clashing at Tynecastle, Rangers were triumphing 3-0 against Dundee at Ibrox, and Chris Sutton made it quite clear as to who the title favourites are right now.
Chris Sutton lists title favourites between Celtic, Rangers and Hearts
Hearts have been heading the chase for some time now, and Sutton has labelled them as firm ‘favourites’ to win the league at the end of the season.
Speaking on BBC 606, the former striker ranked the favourites in order and put Celtic in third place.
Robbie Savage: “Hearts and Celtic. You went to the game. Big week for Hearts – 2-1 down, that goal at the end. How big of a day has this been for Rangers, do you think?
Sutton: “Well, a big day. Danny Rohl, the job he has done. It’s so close at the top of the Scottish Premiership now.”
Savage: “Who are the favourites right now?”
Sutton: “Honestly, I think that Hearts are favourites right now. I think so. I would say Rangers are the second favourites. Celtic third favourites.”
Sutton’s message to Martin O’Neill if Celtic don’t win the title
O’Neill will forever be an icon at Celtic, and it’s probably right that a statue should be placed outside of Parkhead in his honour.
But there is only so much chaos and gaps he can cover up. This Celtic squad are beyond disappointing, and it’s been demonstrated by the performances, even if the Hoops are winning.
Either way, if the unimaginable happens and Celtic aren’t champions at the end of the season, then Sutton made it clear that his former manager won’t be to blame.
Savage: “So, if Celtic don’t win it from here, what would you say to Martin O’Neill?”
Sutton: “I wouldn’t be taking Martin O’Neill to task. All I would say is, since Martin O’Neill has returned. The second time around. How many signings have the club made? One. The centre-forward, who played against Hearts. He assisted the second goal.
“I think I have been consistent on here about whoever capitalises on the transfer window (will win the title). You can see Hearts doing deals, and Rangers have done deals.