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‘Very tight’ – Gordon Dalziel says one side has edge in title race amid Celtic’s ongoing battle

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Celtic top the league on goal scored heading into their Scottish Premiership clash against Kilmarnock this weekend at Parkhead.

Rangers were in action yesterday against Ross County and recorded a 3-1 victory, though they couldn’t move to the summit despite recording three points.

In light of this, Brendan Rodgers’ men can open up a three-point gap if they can navigate past their Ayrshire opposition on Saturday, who travel to Glasgow unbeaten in five matches.

Derek McInnes has already come away with two triumphs against the Bhoys this term, and his outfit will make their way to town ready for a physical battle.

Nevertheless, batting the ball back into their rivals’ court is the aim of the game for Celtic, who will stay top of the league until at least Sunday by claiming a win or a less-desired draw.

Greg Taylor has recovered from a calf strain and is in contention to play a part during proceedings; however, Alexandro Bernabei has contributed with some improved performances and may be selected once again.

Gordon Dalziel says Celtic will retain Scottish Premiership title

Celtic fans will be desperate for their side to get over the line in the race to win the Scottish Premiership, especially given there is an enormous financial bounty at stake courtesy of the new Champions League format.

Pundit Gordon Dalziel has now given his verdict on where the trophy will reside come May as the Bhoys’ quest to achieve silverware under Rodgers continues.

Hibernian FC v Celtic FC - Cinch Scottish Premiership
Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

Dalziel has tipped the reigning league holders to retain their crown, stating [Clyde 1 Superscoreboard]: “I tipped Celtic at the beginning to win the league. I am staying with that because they have important players to come back.

“I think it will be very tight because Rangers have a great opportunity to go top of the league and put some pressure on them.

“But I think with the players, the manager and everything they have got, I think they will just pip them.”

Celtic need to focus on themselves over the coming weeks

Nothing is won or lost in February, and Rodgers will likely be keen to reinforce that message as Celtic look to continue their recent momentum.

Three points against Kilmarnock on Saturday is crucial to achieving that mission, and the playing staff know that the home crowd will tolerate nothing less than a victory come full-time.

The Bhoys can’t control events elsewhere involving their rivals, though the one advantage they do hold over them is that many of the Celtic squad have been there and experienced the hard yards necessary to win league titles, which can add value in the long run.