Ange Postecoglou explains why Hearts are so 'dangerous' for Celtic this weekend

By John McGinley

May 5, 2022

Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou isn’t taking anything for granted against Hearts this weekend, feeling their ‘nothing to lose’ attitude is a danger to the Bhoys.

A win for Celtic against the Edinburgh side on Saturday leaves Postecoglou and his squad truly on the brink of a famous title win.

However, Robbie Neilson’s team have been one of the best in the Premiership this term. Having made a Scottish Cup final will be out to prove they can mix it with Celtic.

Postecoglou thinks they’re a threat, telling Celtic TV: “They’ve had a really good season, they’re in the cup final and they’ll be in Europe next year. They’re a tough opponent.

“You get to this point of the year and they’re one of the teams you know will be dangerous because they’ve got nothing really to lose. They can go out there and play without fear, sure of their position.

“That’s always a danger from an opponent perspective because they’re not going to worry too much about the consequences if they aren’t successful. They’re going to have a crack at us.

“It’s the kind of opponent you need, for us. We want to finish strong and play our best football. We’re going to have to be good on Saturday to do that. We’ve been really consistent for a long time.”

Celtic vs Hearts is no formality

Postecoglou is right to be cautious. Celtic’s matches against the Jam Tarts have been tight affairs this season. All four matches to date were won by a single goal.

Neilson’s outfit won the first match at Tynecastle 2-1, while Celtic have picked up 3-2, 1-0 and 2-1 victories in the time since.

Celtic Park is sold out this weekend and backed by 60,000 expectant supporters, you’d recognise the Bhoys as heavy favourites.

However, the players need to bring the intensity and decision-making that pushes us towards a victory. Thankfully it sounds like the manager is drumming into them that nothing will be handed on a plate.

In other news, Ange Postecoglou addresses Celtic Champions League entry update.