Chris Sutton has taken a more pessimistic view of Celtic’s run-in, tipping the Hoops to finish third.
There are five games left and Celtic are still within touching distance of Hearts. It’s tight at the top, and there’s little room for mistakes now. The schedule gives them three home matches and two away trips, but none of them look straightforward given how this season has gone.
Sutton isn’t buying into any late push. Even with Celtic still picking up results, he expects points to slip in every game. His prediction is just four points from the last fifteen, which would take the title out of reach.
His thinking follows what has been seen on the pitch. Celtic have struggled to control games, even when they’ve gone ahead. Matches have stayed open longer than they should, and that’s cost them.
He said: (Daily Record), “Falkirk suffered major disappointment in the Scottish Cup but they have still have a terrific season. It won’t be comfortable for Celtic – not many games have been – but they will have enough to get three points. Prediction: Celtic 1 Falkirk 1.
“Easter Road has been a tricky venue for Celtic even when they have been playing well. It will be another difficult test this time around with Hibs playing for Europe and points could be spilled. Prediction: Hibs 1 Celtic 1.
“The derby will be huge and a lot will depend on the results elsewhere how Rangers will be feeling going in. Both teams are vulnerable at times and a lot will be on the line, so it could end up in a share of the spoils. Prediction: Celtic 2 Rangers 2.
“Motherwell have struggled of late but they are still one of the teams of the season and have caused Celtic problems in every game. This will be another tough one at Fir Park and it won’t end Well for Celtic. Prediction: Motherwell 1 Celtic 0.
“It depends on how the other sides get on but it could be Hearts going for the title. Will Celtic lie down to prevent Rangers winning the league? I doubt it but it will be a nervy final day and another draw. Prediction: Celtic 1 Hearts 1.“
That said, Sutton’s analysis is shaped by what Celtic have shown at times this season, and there is logic to it. Games have been tighter than they should be, and control has slipped when it mattered. Those issues haven’t just disappeared.
But there is another side to it. Celtic have already come through difficult moments this season and stayed in the race when it looked like they might fall away. Late goals, big results under pressure, and a place in the cup final all point to a team that finds something when it has to.
The run-in will not be easy. It never is. But if Celtic can take control of games earlier, get the ball moving quicker through midfield, and make better use of chances, they have enough to win those fixtures. The quality is there, even if it has not always shown at the same time.
Sutton expects Celtic to fall short. That is one reading of it. Another is that this group, with everything still on the line, can put together the run they need. From here, it feels like they will do just enough to get over the line and take the title. However, expect drama like we haven’t seen in a generation.
