Alan Thompson is relishing the thought of the upcoming Scottish League Cup final between Celtic and Rangers, believing the Bhoys have what it takes to go on and win a treble of trophies this season.
Ange Postecoglou’s side take on Michael Beale’s lot at Hampden on February 26th, having already started to make progress in the Scottish Cup and opened up a nine-point gap at the top of Scottish Premiership.
Naturally, discussion of a potential treble is increasing and while Thompson doesn’t think anyone at Celtic will be encouraging that publicly anytime soon, he reckons it’ll be on their minds behind closed doors.
Alan Thompson says Celtic look unstoppable
Speaking to The Sunday Post [06/02 print edition, Post Match supplement page 11], the former Bhoys midfielder said: “The title is getting closer and closer, but nothing will be taken for granted. You can never think that way. The Treble will be in their thoughts, but they won’t admit that publicly. Any targets will remain private. If Celtic can beat Rangers, then it’s a massive step towards lifting the lot.
“I was lucky enough to be a part of it in 2001 when we won the Treble under Martin O’Neill. I felt very proud and very privileged. Ange and the players will be feeling the same. He has assembled an extraordinary squad. There is such strength in depth.
“On a domestic level, they look pretty much unstoppable. But they need to stay focused and continue to play with high levels of energy. I don’t think Ange would tolerate any slips in the standards they produce.”
Trebles remain rare despite era of dominance
Celtic’s quadruple treble run between 2016 and 2020 is destined to go down in club history. That era of dominance was so impressive that trebles became almost routine for the Bhoys.
However, were Ange Postecoglou’s squad to achieve that feat this season it would be an incredible effort from the group – make no mistake. Across Scottish football history, trebles remain rare and these players have the chance to write their own chapter in that story.
We know that it’s incredibly difficult to do, which is why not too many people will be getting excited about the prospect at this stage – even fans. There are still so many twists and turns that can take place.
Not only will Rangers pose a threat in the Hampden final but we also face Premiership opposition in the next round of the Scottish Cup against the only team to have beaten us this season, St Mirren.
One game at a time, always!
In other news, Aaron Mooy on why he can’t contain his smile in front of Celtic fans during matches.
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