Celtic’s title credentials have been questioned after their defeat at Tannadice, Hearts boss Derek McInnes is simply not buying into it.
The noise around Celtic’s defeat to Dundee United has quickly shifted the conversation, with some in the media suggesting momentum has moved elsewhere in the title race.
The result ignores a key reality that those competing against Celtic are not buying into that narrative, and McInnes admits the Bhoys are still there to be reckoned with.
Will we hunt Hearts down and win the title?
Celtic dismissal exposed as premature by McInnes
Derek McInnes made it clear that Celtic remain firmly in the title race despite the recent setback at Tannadice.
The Hearts boss told The Press & Journal, “One hundred per cent. You wouldn’t discount a Martin O’Neill Celtic team at any juncture.
“They’re a good side, they’ve got good players and they’ve been over the course. I think they’ve got a fantastic manager.
“It was obviously a blow for them (losing at Tannadice), but there’s still a lot of football to be played and I think anybody ruling Celtic out would be foolish.”
McInnes’ view goes directly against the media and pundit reaction that has followed Celtic’s defeat at Tannadice.
Celtic standards still defined by winning history
McInnes knows that Martin O’Neill’s Celtic sides will simply not give up regardless of what the media narrative is saying.
The Hearts manager reflects how Celtic’s history in title fights has shaped expectations around their ability to respond under pressure.
By pointing to the quality within the Celtic squad and describing the team as a good side with a fantastic manager, McInnes has reinforced why Hearts still treat them as a major force.
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