Celtic’s title charge is not being built on dominance, but the reaction from rivals shows exactly why they remain the benchmark.
External voices continue to question whether Celtic have enough, despite consistent results in recent weeks. But that doubt has centred on style of play rather than the facts that the Hoops keep winning.
However, the language used by those same voices tells a different story once the pressure of the run-in is acknowledged.
This is obvious when the discussion moves from Celtic’s qualities to the demands placed on those trying to keep pace, and Alan Hutton’s verdict is really quite telling.
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Celtic’s consistency forces Alan Hutton into Rangers contradictions
Hutton was asked if he thought Celtic had enough about them to finish as champions this season and the former Rangers defender’s answer was quite telling.
Darrell Currie: “Do you think they’ve got enough Allan, Celtic? They’ve got the knowhow, but have they got it in that team?
Allan Hutton: “That’s exactly what they’ve got. They’ve just been grinding it out. So, why can’t they just continue to do that? I think the the final game of the season’s going to be absolutely humongous. So, that will be an absolute corker. But I think teams will still drop points in the last four games. All the teams will still drop points.”
Michael Stewart: “Do you fear them? So do you fear them, Alan?
Hutton: “Not really. Not really. I don’t fear any of them. I must admit I fear the next two Rangers games. I think honestly this is the first time I’ve actually thought I’m not sure about this.
“Maybe three away games, one at home. The home games against Hibs ain’t easy neither. I am starting to worry a wee bit.”
Celtic remain the standard as pressure shifts elsewhere
Concerns about upcoming fixtures and dropped points reveal where the real pressure sits as the title race tightens.
That pressure is made explicit with Hutton’s admission that he fears Rangers’ fixtures when asked about Celtic’s title chances.
The media narrative is shifting, especially after Celtic beat Falkirk and then 24 hours later, Rangers’ Ibrox stumble against Motherwell happened.
Celtic may not be overwhelming opponents, but the reaction from rivals shows they are still dictating the terms of the title race.
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