Former Celtic manager Martin O’Neill believes Hearts have thrown themselves into the title race after their 3-1 win over the Hoops last weekend. Update: Brendan Rodgers resigns, Celtic interim and assistant manager appointed.
O’Neill, described Hearts as a team playing with belief and physicality, qualities he feels Celtic are currently lacking. The Tynecastle side have started the campaign superbly under Derek McInnes and now sit top of the Premiership table, unbeaten in their opening eight games.
The defeat added to Celtic’s growing concerns, with the champions having already dropped ten points this season. While Rodgers has stressed there’s a long way to go, O’Neill was quick to highlight the significance of the gap and Hearts’ momentum following their statement win.
In his comments, the former treble-winning manager also dismissed Rangers’ threat, pointing instead to the opportunity Hearts now have in front of them, provided they can maintain consistency and belief as the season develops.
He said: (talkSPORT), “After the weekend, they have put themselves in a really decent position. I get back to the point. I think it’s early.
“Hearts have shown a great determination. Their record is great, at this minute. With Celtic not being as strong, as physically as strong, as maybe you would want them to be. It is possible.
“Celtic can actually lose games, whereas before, they looked invincible in matches. Rangers are no threat whatsoever. They are so far adrift it’s untrue.
“But this is the moment. This is the time for Hearts. They have gone eight points clear. That is a decent enough lead, really. Their confidence has grown, and it will grow from that victory.”
O’Neill’s comments will resonate with many Celtic supporters still reeling from the weekend defeat, which exposed worrying gaps in Rodgers’ squad. The lack of physical edge he alluded to has become a recurring theme in the early months of the season.
Hearts, meanwhile, have continued to grow into the campaign and look far more robust and cohesive than in recent years. Their ability to win both at home and away has added weight to the notion they can sustain a challenge.
Celtic now face a significant period in the season. While 29 games remain, the eight-point cushion enjoyed by Hearts cannot be ignored, particularly if Rodgers’ side continue to show vulnerability in key moments.
The pressure is on. With a cup semi-final looming and crucial league matches ahead, Celtic must find answers, and quickly, or risk watching Hearts turn an early surge into something far more serious.
