The Scottish Premiership 2025–26 title race has reached a dramatic boiling point with just four matches remaining. Hearts lead the table on 73 points after 34 games, with Celtic close behind on 70 and Rangers just one point further back on 69. A tense three-way battle is unfolding, and all three sides remain firmly in contention.
Against this high-pressure backdrop, former Celtic striker and pundit Chris Sutton has ignited controversy with bold comments on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Monday Night Club. Sutton claimed Rangers now under Danny Röhl have a better chance of lifting the title than Celtic currently led by interim boss Martin O’Neill.
Sutton’s Blunt Verdict
Sutton did not hold back. His argument is rooted in Celtic’s inconsistency rather than sentiment:
Celtic have failed to beat either Rangers or Hearts in the league this season
Recent performances even in wins like the 3–1 victory over Falkirk have lacked authority
Grinding out results he argues will not be enough in the final stretch
He expressed serious doubts about Celtic getting a result away to Hibernian
He suggested a Rangers win at Celtic Park would not be a great surprise
What has angered fans most is the timing. These comments came just after Rangers slipped up at home to Motherwell a moment many believed should have shifted momentum toward Celtic. Instead Sutton doubled down on his stance.
Celtic’s Chaotic Campaign
Celtic’s season has been anything but stable. Brendan Rodgers stepped down in October amid internal tensions. O’Neill initially steadied the ship impressively before Wilfried Nancy was appointed permanently only to be dismissed after just 33 days in charge.
O’Neill returned for a second stint and has since guided Celtic back into contention. They have won 22 of their 34 matches and sit just three points off the top. Players like Daizen Maeda have delivered key moments but inconsistency remains a lingering concern.
Celtic still face a tricky run-in including a tough trip to Hibs and a decisive Old Firm clash at home to Rangers. Any slip-up could prove costly.
Divided Fan Reaction
Sutton’s remarks have split the Celtic support. Some believe he is applying pressure on Rangers or engaging in mind games. Others see it as honest analysis from someone unafraid to criticize his former club.
Either way the reaction has been fierce and loud.
Rangers Quietly Lurking
Rangers sit just one point behind Celtic and boast a superior goal difference. Under Röhl they have shown resilience losing only three matches all season. However too many draws have kept them from taking control.
Their upcoming trip to Celtic Park looms large. Despite the hostile atmosphere Sutton insists a Rangers win there would not shock him a statement that has only added fuel to the fire.
Hearts The Unexpected Leaders
While much of the spotlight remains on Glasgow’s giants Heart of Midlothian F.C. managed by Derek McInnes have quietly taken pole position. Their consistency and defensive solidity have carried them to the summit.
Still with such a narrow lead any mistake could open the door for Celtic or Rangers to pounce.
The Final Countdown
With four games left the equation is simple but unforgiving:
Celtic must deliver near perfect results
Rangers need to capitalize on any slip-ups
Hearts must hold their nerve at the top
Sutton’s core claim that Celtic’s habit of finding a way is not sustainable may yet prove decisive. But football thrives on unpredictability. A single moment of brilliance a derby day twist or a late surge could flip the script entirely.
One thing is certain the tension across Glasgow and Edinburgh is reaching breaking point. Whether Sutton is proven right or Celtic silence the doubters this title race is heading for a blockbuster finish.
