Chris Sutton has never been Celtic’s biggest cheerleader.
But ahead of the season’s defining run-in, he is coming across as one of his former boss Martin O’Neill’s biggest doubters.
Just three points separate the Scottish Premiership’s top three ahead of the post-split fixtures, and Celtic face both of their title rivals at home.
This isn’t offering much encouragement to Sutton though. He has completely written the Hoops off.
Your first thought when you see the fixtures…
How many points will we pick up?
Chris Sutton predicts just one Celtic win post-split
Predicting Celtic’s five post-split games for the Daily Record, Sutton’s predictions were as follows:
Celtic 2-1 Falkirk: “Falkirk suffered major disappointment in the Scottish Cup but they have still had a terrific season. It won’t be comfortable for Celtic — not many games have been — but they will have enough to get three points.”
READ MORE: Three Falkirk starters ruled out of Celtic clash in triple injury blow
Hibs 1-1 Celtic: “Easter Road has been a tricky venue for Celtic even when they have been playing well. It will be another difficult test this time around with Hibs playing for Europe and points could be spilled.”
Celtic 0-1 Rangers: “The derby will be huge and a lot will depend on the results elsewhere how Rangers will be feeling going in.
“Both teams are vulnerable at times and a lot will be on the line, so it could end up in a share of the spoils.
Motherwell 1-0 Celtic: “Motherwell have struggled of late but they are still one of the teams of the season and have caused Celtic problems in every game.
“This will be another tough one at Fir Park and it won’t end Well for Celtic.”
Celtic 1-1 Hearts: It depends on how the other sides get on but it could be Hearts going for the title. Will Celtic lie down to prevent Rangers winning the league?
“I doubt it but it will be a nervy final day and another draw.”
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What’s behind Chris Sutton’s Celtic predictions?
In doubting his ex-boss so vocally, Sutton knows that his comments will draw attention – but is he attempting to get a reaction from the Celtic players?
Probably not, to be honest. This is not a direct criticism of O’Neill, we know that he is far from being the problem. In fact, he is the biggest reason this title push is still alive.
But if Celtic can deliver the title — which is still completely possible — Sutton will be left with egg on his face.
Over to you, Martin O’Neill…
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