Anthony Ralston outlines Celtic dressing room mindset after claiming first silverware of the campaign

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Celtic will put their Premier Sports Cup win over Rangers behind them when they take on Dundee United tomorrow lunchtime in the Scottish Premiership.

Brendan Rodgers has confirmed James Forrest will be absent at Tannadice as he has been ruled out for six weeks.

Similarly, Alistair Johnston faces a race against time to enter contention, though there were always going to be one or two concerns after an energy-sapping cup final.

Despite the outcry from across the city, Celtic’s Premier Sports Cup victory over Rangers was as historic as they come, with the Bhoys surpassing their rivals’ all-time trophy haul at the national stadium.

Silverware is something that runs in the DNA of Scotland’s most successful side, if that is a saying that appeals to you, but Anthony Ralston has made sure there is no room for mental slackness as the Bhoys eye further success.

Anthony Ralston on Celtic’s mindset as further honours eyed

Speaking ahead of Celtic’s trip to face Dundee United, Ralston made clear that he and his teammates allow themselves some time to take in the enormity of claiming silverware, but their focus then immediately shifts to the next task at hand.

He stated: “It’s important that when you do win trophies, which this club is built on, that you do take the time to soak it in and be with friends and family, be with your team-mates and staff and really enjoy it, but it doesn’t last long because you’ve always go the next game which is the most important one.

“It’s what you want to do in your career, from a personal and a team point of view, which is win cup finals.

“So the place has a good feeling around it and we’re in a good place, but that’s in the past now and we’re fully focused on the weekend.”

Celtic looking to carry the fight on all fronts after cup win

While their Scottish Premiership lead is well-established, Celtic have also made a fist of the Champions League this campaign and stand one victory away from securing knockout playoff phase qualification.

Juggling domestic endeavours and European fixtures can often produce challenges, but the Bhoys have been beaten only once across all competitions this term, which is quite the achievement.

The Scottish Cup is also there to claim after the New Year, giving Celtic plenty of motivation as they bid to make history under Rodgers.