Chris Sutton has weighed in after the fallout surrounding Alistair Johnston’s challenge on Mikey Moore during Celtic’s win over Rangers continued into the week.

The Canadian defender was booked in the first half after catching Moore in a tackle that immediately sparked debate across social media and television coverage.

At half-time, Sky Sports showed a slow-motion replay of the incident, with discussion later centring on whether the VAR team had access to every available angle before deciding against further punishment.

During Ref Watch on Sky Sports, it was suggested that the officials in the VAR room may not have seen the full sequence.

Sky Sports has now clarified that the VAR team, led by John Beaton, did in fact have access to all broadcast angles before confirming the on-field yellow card decision.

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton had little sympathy for the reaction that followed.

“Much ado about nothing… the desperate have to get enraged about something…” Sutton posted in response to the clarification.

 

That will not stop the debate entirely, especially after a derby result that ended Rangers’ involvement in the title race.

Celtic’s victory also confirmed their city rivals will finish third, adding more fuel to the fire in the post-derby reaction from some. 

There is always scrutiny after these games, especially when flashpoints arrive in a fixture that rarely passes quietly. But the suggestion that officials somehow missed key footage has now been addressed directly.

The VAR team reviewed the challenge fully and judged that Johnston’s booking was sufficient.

Chris Sutton former Celtic striker
26th April 2025; Tannadice Park, Dundee, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Dundee United versus Celtic; Ex Celtic players Chris Sutton

The wider frustration on the other side perhaps says more about the current state of the title race than the tackle itself.

Martin O’Neill’s Celtic side remain firmly in contention with just one point separating the top teams heading into Wednesday night.

Celtic travel to Motherwell knowing anything less than a win could hand momentum away before the final weekend.

Hearts host Falkirk at the same time and, if both sides win, the title race will head into a final-day showdown between the two challengers.

That alone guarantees every incident, every decision and every refereeing call will continue to be dissected heavily over the coming days.