As Celtic prepare to host Aberdeen in what is shaping up to be am exciting top-of-the-table clash, some sectors of the media have displayed a dismissive attitude towards the Dons, despite both teams maintaining 100% records in the league.

The anticipation for this match should be high, given both sides’ strong starts, but certain pundits have seemed quick to belittle Aberdeen’s chances.

In a discussion on PLZ Soccer, Gordon Parks and Andrew Smith debated Aberdeen’s approach to the trip to Celtic Park, with Parks arguing that a draw would represent a “statement” result for the Dons. Parks highlighted the difficulty of going to Celtic Park and coming away with anything, stating that Aberdeen securing a point would be seen as a major achievement.

Meanwhile, host Peter Martin took a more condescending view, suggesting that Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin would likely aim to “stifle the game” and rely on a rare set-piece opportunity to “steal a point.” Martin went further, saying, “If he can come out of Celtic Park with a point, Aberdeen is going to go mental. They’ll have an open-top bus.”

This kind of rhetoric suggests an underestimation of the Dons’ capabilities, even as they arrive at Celtic Park with a perfect record in the league. Aberdeen have been in exceptional form under Thelin, winning all 13 games under the boss, and should not be dismissed so easily. It’s clear they are set for their toughest test yet, but the flippant attitude towards their chances from some pundits only adds fuel to the fire as the Dons look to make a statement on the pitch.

Both Celtic and Aberdeen will know the significance of tomorrow’s clash, with the top spot on the line. Despite the arrogance from some corners, Aberdeen will come to Glasgow believing they can prove the doubters wrong.