Paul Slane insists that a defeat to Rangers this weekend would take the shine off what has otherwise been a brilliant campaign for Celtic.
Celtic are on track for a sixth treble in nine years, an unbelievable record for the Hoops. But, fans haven’t been too pleased with derby results this season. The Hoops won the opener at Parkhead, but haven’t since then.
It took extra time and penalties to win the League Cup final, before a defeat at Ibrox and Celtic Park.
The former Hoops winger, speaking on Open Goal, stressed the importance of finishing the season on a high and feels that losing to this current Rangers side — especially for a third time this year — would leave a sour note, even if Celtic secure a domestic treble.
“I think overall it’s incredible, obviously to win a treble,” said Slane. “But it just puts a wee damper on it.
“Me personally, I don’t think it’s acceptable to lose three derby games in one season — especially not to this current Rangers side, a team that’s struggling to win any game of football.”
Celtic have already clinched the Premiership and League Cup and have a match against Aberdeen at Hampden to collect the clean sweep. But after two defeats to Rangers this season — at Ibrox and Celtic Park — Slane believes that a third would be one too many, regardless of the silverware.
“They shouldn’t be getting beat, and the manner they’ve been getting beaten has been poor as well,” he said. “So for me, need a big one Saturday.”
Celtic need to start well on Sunday and beat the Rangers’ press. Having Callum McGregor back in midfield, in the form he’s in just now, is a big boost for Celtic. Adam Idah will likely get the nod, with Jota a doubt for the match.
