Sport nationChris Sutton Weighs in on Scottish Premiership Title Race After Celtic’s Draw with Aberdeen
Patrick Sinat
October 20, 2024, 09:40
The Scottish Premiership title race has intensified following Celtic’s 2-2 draw with Aberdeen at Celtic Park. Chris Sutton, a former Blackburn Rovers player, shared his insights on the league’s outlook with Robbie Savage on BBC 606.
Celtic’s Title Chances
Sutton remains confident that Celtic will retain the league title:
“I think Celtic will win the league, but listen, Rob, you’re not as familiar with Scottish football as I am.”
However, he acknowledges Aberdeen’s impressive start to the season:
“The whole Aberdeen story, the size of the club, where Aberdeen were last season, bottom half finish, for this guy to come in and to get a tune out of the team, Rob, and bearing in mind they sold the best player, Miovski, for £7m.”
Aberdeen’s Resurgence
Under Jimmy Thelin’s management, Aberdeen has shown remarkable improvement:
“For him to come in and do the job that he’s done and give this belief that Aberdeen can actually challenge at the top end.”
Sutton praises Thelin’s tactical decisions:
“What courage from the manager to make those changes and come back. And by all accounts, I’ve spoken to a couple of people who were at the game.”
Aberdeen’s Contention
Despite Celtic’s favored status, Sutton recognizes Aberdeen’s potential:
“Aberdeen are serious contenders… They started the season strongly, but everybody was looking at this game, the acid test.”
He highlights the significance of Aberdeen’s performance:
“It’s brilliant, Rob, for Scottish football. It’s not just Celtic and Rangers at the moment.”
Challenges Ahead
With only eight games played, it’s premature to predict Aberdeen’s sustained challenge:
“The Pittodrie club are looking good, but as every Celtic fan knows, nothing is won in October.”
Sutton notes the crucial Christmas schedule:
“There is still the hectic Christmas schedule to get through.”
Aberdeen’s squad depth will face significant tests:
“Aberdeen’s squad depth will be seriously tested this season.”
Brendan Rodgers’ Perspective
Celtic’s manager remains cautious:
“Brendan Rodgers believes that it’s still too early in the season to consider Thelin’s side as title contenders.”
Rodgers’ confidence in Celtic’s title retention remains unwavering:
“Brendan Rodgers and the team will still be confident that they will be victorious.”
Conclusion
The Scottish Premiership title race has become increasingly intriguing. Chris Sutton’s analysis acknowledges Aberdeen’s resurgence while maintaining faith in Celtic’s championship potential. As the season unfolds, the rivalry between Celtic, Aberdeen, and Rangers will captivate fans.
Key Takeaways:
- Chris Sutton believes Celtic will win the Scottish Premiership.
- Aberdeen is considered a serious contender.
- Jimmy Thelin’s management has revitalized Aberdeen.
- Celtic’s title retention is far from guaranteed.
- The Christmas schedule will crucially test Aberdeen’s squad depth.
Sources:
- BBC 606
- Sky Sports
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