It might not feel like it but Celtic’s season could still end in success.
Despite inconsistent performances and more defeats than usual, the Hoops remain in the hunt for both the league title and the Scottish Cup under Martin O’Neill.
And that, according to former Rangers midfielder Kevin Thomson, should concern their rivals.
Celtic haven’t been at their best. At times, they’ve struggled for rhythm, quality and control and have been grinding out narrow wins rather than dominating games.
It’s three goals in their last three games, while Rangers have 14.
But Celtic are still there and still picking up the three points.
And Thomson believes that’s exactly what makes them dangerous.
Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland, he said:
“I suppose that’s a worry for everybody else, in the respect that they haven’t been playing well and they are still in the hunt for two trophies.
“If I were a betting man, then I would bet Celtic would win against St Mirren (in the Scottish Cup semi-final). I don’t think they have been at their brilliant best.
“All the Celtic fans would say that. I think even Martin O’Neill would say that. Maybe even the players. They probably haven’t hit the heights that we are used to seeing from a brilliant Celtic team.
“But they are still there. They are still hunting. They could still win a cup and league double. It could still be a good season for them.
“I suppose that’s a worry for everybody else, in the respect that they haven’t been playing well and they are still in the hunt for two trophies.”
It’s a telling point.
Celtic haven’t clicked, but they haven’t fully collapsed either.
And with silverware still on the line, that resilience could yet define their season.
They’re getting some injury boosts, too.
Arne Engels completed his return at the weekend, with Alistaor Johnston set to come back into contention. Callum Osmand is nearing his comeback, too. Celtic are really struggling at the top end of the pitch, and he could look to answer the call in the run-in.
It’s a massive six, hopefully seven, games ahead.
