Chris Sutton has delivered a reality check to those questioning Celtic’s title credentials after their recent defeat to Rangers, insisting the over-the-top reaction doesn’t reflect the bigger picture.
Brendan Rodgers’ side slipped to a 3-2 loss at Celtic Park in the last derby, a result that allowed Rangers to claim the bragging rights. But with Celtic holding a commanding 13-point lead at the top of the Premiership, Sutton believes the noise surrounding the result has gone well beyond reason.
The former Celtic striker took aim at what he described as “knee-jerking” from sections of support and media alike, making it clear that one result shouldn’t overshadow a season of dominance.
“Brendan Rodgers’ team have lost just twice all season, they are 13 points clear and are favourites to go on and win a Treble,” he wrote in his RecordSport column. “But having lost to Rangers a fortnight ago, you’d think they were rubbish and in need of a total rebuild.”
Sutton acknowledged the frustration of losing the derby but pointed to the game’s fine margins and the fact Celtic were still pushing to win the match even at 2-2. “In reality though, at 2-2 there only looked one winner and it could quite easily have ended up a victory despite not playing their best,” he said.
The Englishman also dismissed talk of a major crisis at Parkhead, urging perspective with silverware still very much in sight. “Some of the knee-jerking has been pretty laughable, but that’s how it works in these parts,” he added.
The result may have stung, but the league table tells its own story. Celtic remain firmly in the driving seat for a fourth consecutive Premiership crown, and Rodgers’ side still have a Treble on the line.
With a chance to reset against Hearts this weekend, Sutton’s message to Celtic fans is clear: take the hit, but keep the head.
