Celtic’s form under Brendan Rodgers this season has cemented their status as Scotland’s top team, with many declaring the title race effectively over, already.
After a challenging start to Rodgers’ second tenure, which ultimately ended with a league and cup double, the Hoops have hit their stride.
When Rodgers returned last summer following Ange Postecoglou’s move to Tottenham, scepticism among some fans lingered due to his abrupt departure in 2019. However, a domestic double by the end of the season silenced much of that doubt. Now, with only one loss in all competitions—away to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League—Celtic have taken their performances to new heights.
Former Premiership player Marvin Bartley believes the competition is already over.
Speaking on the Scottish Football Podcast, Bartley said:
“I think the title race was done before this weekend.
“Honestly, I can’t see anyone stopping them. We are talking about Rangers who are in third place, at this moment in time. Their biggest challenge is to get into second and catch Aberdeen.
“Aberdeen have had a brilliant season. But I can’t see Aberdeen catching Celtic. The way that they play, we spoke about the first half against Hearts and then in the second, they managed to wear them down and score four goals. They bring a £9.5 million striker off the bench to help do that as well. The squad depth there is unbelievable. I can’t see anyone catching Celtic. Aberdeen will hang onto their coattails as long as they possibly can because that will mean they stay in second place. But in terms of someone being the champion, if I was down to my last pound and I had to bet it, then I would bet it on Celtic all day and every day.”
While Aberdeen have mounted an admirable campaign, their loss to St Mirren over the weekend has allowed Celtic to extend their lead at the top to three points, for the first time this season.
As good as the Dons have been, no one ever though that they’d be able to maintain their form.
However, with Rangers dropping points for the fifth time this season at the weekend, Aberdeen does have a good chance to split the Glasgow sides and finish second.
