Stiliyan Petrov thinks Celtic’s points gap over Rangers is more likely to increase than decrease when the domestic action resumes next week, feeling that the Bhoys are setting their sights on a treble.
Since Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s exit and Michael Beale’s appointment at Ibrox, all we’ve heard about in media circles is Rangers’ chances of closing the nine-point gap at the top of the Scottish Premiership with a new man in charge.
However, Petrov not only thinks that is unlikely to happen but wouldn’t be shocked if Celtic extend their lead, with Callum McGregor’s return playing a big factor.
Speaking to The Sunday Post [11/12 print edition, Post Match supplement, page 10], the Bulgarian said: “They are going to take some stopping. I wouldn’t be surprised in the slightest if they increased their lead in the coming months. Ange Postecoglou has such high standards, and he puts demands on his players. They know the score. They have it in them to cope with the schedule over the next few months. I think they will be looking forward to the fixture list.
“They have a League Cup semi-final against Kilmarnock on the horizon, and the Scottish Cup gets under way next month. It will be on their minds to win the Treble. That’s the kind of belief inside Celtic Park. Callum Mcgregor is also back after two months out. What a boost to have the captain and leader back in the team. He will be desperate to get that jersey on again, and back playing in front of 60,000 supporters.
“The first game is away to Aberdeen on Saturday, and they will look to put a marker down from the off. They will want a victory to show they remain relentless. So I believe Celtic will have the title won with a few points to spare.”
It’s refreshing to see these kinds of comments circulated. They’ve certainly been rare of late with most outlets obsessed with an Ibrox resurgence. Yet, most Celtic fans know where the smart money should be this season.
If Celtic maintain the domestic form that has been so impressive over the last 15 months, there is little danger of any team getting close to us, especially when our closest challengers are nine points behind.
If Postecoglou can keep the standards as high, as Petrov says, there’s little evidence that anything other than Celtic dominance will continue.
In other news, Why Celtic are about to enjoy an even bigger Matt O’Riley impact.
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