Celtic have made a blistering start to the season, winning five consecutive Scottish Premiership matches, and they appear to be in unstoppable form.
Yet, former Scotland international Alan Rough believes that Rangers, despite a rocky beginning, have the capability to take points off them as the season progresses.
Celtic’s recent success has extended beyond domestic football, with a memorable victory in their opening Champions League game adding to their impressive run.
Many are already speculating whether the Hoops could remain unbeaten throughout the season.
However, Rough is sceptical about such predictions, suggesting that it’s only a matter of time before another team disrupts Celtic’s momentum.
Rough says that on paper, it may look like Celtic will remain unbeaten, but “it won’t happen”. He expects Rangers and Hearts and other teams to end Celtic’s juggernaut at some point.
Speaking on PLZ Soccer, Rough said, “On paper you’d say yeah, but it won’t happen.
“Because other teams have got to act together. Rangers are more of a force I think. Aberdeen are obviously a proven force. Hibs and Hearts haven’t got their act together. So I would take one of these teams to take points off Celtic.”
Rangers, now under Philippe Clement, have turned a corner after their earlier defeat to Celtic. They have since registered three consecutive victories and are starting to build momentum. Rough points to Rangers as a key contender capable of halting Celtic’s charge, particularly when they meet again at Ibrox.
Rough’s comments highlight the unpredictable nature of football, with the Belgian manager beginning to steady the ship at Ibrox.
While Celtic may look invincible now, the campaign is still in its early stages, and a few bad results in the Champions League could shift the dynamic.
Rangers may have lost 3-0 at Parkhead earlier in the season, but Rough believes they have what it takes to reverse that result when the two sides meet again. As the season unfolds, Celtic’s unbeaten run will be tested, and, as Rough suggests, they might eventually face setbacks.