Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton has shared his thoughts on the Hoops’ 3-2 defeat to Rangers at Celtic Park this afternoon, with Celtic captain Callum McGregor absent due to a calf injury and a costly mistake by Cameron Carter-Vickers leading to Hamza Igamane’s late winner for the visitors.

McGregor’s Absence Felt

Celtic were left to rue the absence of influential captain, Callum McGregor, who missed the Glasgow Derby through injury. Sutton, who was on commentary for the game, emphasised the impact McGregor’s leadership and quality had on the team’s performance. “Celtic missed Callum McGregor’s leadership and they missed his quality,” Sutton said: (Sky Sports). The absence of the midfield maestro left a void, and Celtic struggled to impose themselves against a Rangers side that capitalised on defensive mistakes.

Carter-Vickers’ Costly Error

Sutton was particularly critical of Cameron Carter-Vickers, who made a costly mistake in the build-up to Rangers’ late winner. With the game hanging in the balance at 2-2, Carter-Vickers was involved in a moment of indecision that allowed Hamza Igamane to pounce and fire past Kasper Schmeichel. “It was so careless the goal they gave away for the winner. I think Cameron Carter-Vickers ducks out of the way,” Sutton noted. It was a moment of misjudgement that ultimately cost Celtic dearly in a match where they had hoped to push on for a crucial victory.

Rangers Have Done it Twice, But the League is Celtic’s

Despite Celtic’s disappointing defeat, Sutton remains confident about their chances in the title race. “Rangers have beaten Celtic twice this season, but they are not going to win the league,” he insisted. Celtic still sit 10 points clear of their rivals at the top of the Scottish Premiership, with just eight games left in the season. Sutton pointed out that Rangers, while producing good performances against Celtic, are still “miles away” from challenging Celtic for the league crown.

Treble Still in Sight

With Celtic still holding a commanding lead in the league, the treble remains very much on the cards. Sutton, while acknowledging the disappointment of today’s result, reiterated that Celtic’s league position and potential cup runs leave them in an excellent position to secure another memorable season. “They play well when the pressure isn’t on,” Sutton said, adding that Rangers’ inability to sustain that level when it matters most means the title remains Celtic’s to lose.

Celtic’s supporters will be hoping for a swift response in remaining league and cup games, as they continue their push towards another successful season, with the treble still within reach.