Key Takeaways
- Chris Sutton believes Rangers FC stand a better chance than Celtic FC of winning the Scottish Premiership title this term.
- The former Celtic striker criticised the Parkhead club’s displays under interim manager Martin O’Neill.
- Sutton praised Heart of Midlothian FC and manager Derek McInnes for their sustained challenge at the top.
Chris Sutton has caused debate by backing Rangers FC to win the Scottish Premiership ahead of his former club Celtic FC. The former striker gave his view even though Rangers are four points behind current leaders Heart of Midlothian FC.
Celtic FC recently moved into second place after Motherwell beat Rangers at Ibrox. However, Sutton does not believe the Hoops can win the title even though betting firms now list Martin O’Neill’s team as favourites to keep their crown.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Monday Night Club, Sutton said he doubts Celtic’s quality. “I watch Celtic every week. Even on Saturday night against Falkirk, they just aren’t convincing,” he said.
The former forward, who won trophies under O’Neill as a player, questioned whether the interim manager can guide the team through their last four matches. Sutton specifically noted worries about their next match away to Hibernian FC.
Sutton also said that a Celtic win would look bad for Scottish football. He pointed to the club’s manager changes this season, which has seen three different coaches including two short spells from O’Neill.
At the same time, Sutton praised Heart of Midlothian FC and their manager Derek McInnes. He said their unbeaten home record at Tynecastle is excellent and insisted the Edinburgh club deserve credit for staying at the top since September.
The pundit said the next match between Hearts and Rangers could decide the race. “If Hearts beat Rangers, essentially I think that is Rangers out of it,” Sutton stated.
Despite Celtic’s place in the table, Sutton said Rangers FC have better form. He ruled out the chance of Celtic winning a 14th championship in 15 years, saying that poor performances will finally cost them.