Jim White found himself chuckling at a Rangers remark made by Alex Crook after Celtic’s emphatic 5-1 Champions League victory over Slovan Bratislava.
The Hoops got their European campaign off to a flying start at Parkhead on Wednesday night (18 September), much to the delight of White and Crook, who were discussing the game live on talkSPORT on 20 September.
White kicked off the conversation, saying: “Celtic, 5-1 Slovan Bratislava. Love it.”
Crook followed up with his take on Celtic’s prospects in Europe: “Celtic could potentially get into the play-off spots for a two-legged shoot-out for a place in the last 16, which would be brilliant for them and brilliant for Scottish football.
“Although Rangers fans probably wouldn’t agree.”
White, laughing in response, clearly enjoyed the light-hearted dig at Rangers, as the progress of Celtic in Europe became a topic of conversation.
Jim White reacts to Rangers jibe after Celtic Champions League win:
The divide between Rangers and Celtic seems to be widening further, with the latter dominating both domestically and in Europe. The Hoops’ performance in the Champions League was impressive, even if Slovan Bratislava weren’t the toughest opposition.
This comes hot on the heels of Celtic’s recent dismantling of Rangers at Celtic Park, where Brenden Rodgers’ side left Philippe Clement’s men frustrated and humbled.
While it may be tough for Rangers fans to watch their rivals excel, Celtic’s success offers a potential blueprint for how a Scottish Premiership club can perform on the European stage.
The recent sale of Matt O’Riley brought in a significant fee, allowing the club to sign Arne Engels, who has made an immediate impact.
It’s also worth noting that Celtic’s European success will contribute to Scotland’s UEFA coefficient, which could benefit Rangers in future seasons.
Though difficult for Rangers fans to acknowledge, there is much to admire in Celtic’s current form, and their progress is ultimately a positive development for Scottish football.