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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

Chris Sutton warns Celtic that title race with Rangers is on

Chris Sutton believes there is a title race between Celtic and Rangers this season.

That's despite Brendan Rodgers' side leading the way at the top of the Premiership by eight points, albeit the Ibrox club does have a game in hand.

The former Hoops striker appeared on Sky Sports last night as Philippe Clement's side remained undefeated under the Belgian's watch. A first-half Abdallah Sima goal was enough for Rangers to claim all three points against Hearts.

The result was matched by Celtic, who were more comfortable winners on home soil against Hibernian.

While Celtic lead the way, the current champions remain the favourites to retain their crown come May. 

But there are sure to be plenty of bumps along the way, for both teams, with Sutton pointing out that if Rangers can stop losing 'silly points', then the title race could be on.

He said post-match: "Rangers need to make sure they don’t drop silly points. They did drop silly points at Aberdeen. I think there’s a title race on this season. They’ve got the European fixture coming up but (this is) a big three points for Philippe Clement.”

Rangers face Dundee at Ibrox on Saturday before Celtic's Sunday lunchtime kick-off against Kilmarnock in Ayrshire on Sunday. 

Meanwhile, Rodgers insists Mikey Johnston "needs to do more" if he wants to be a regular starter for Celtic.

The winger started his first game for the Parkhead side in over 22 months as the Scottish champions ran out 4-1 winners against Nick Montgomery's men thanks to a double from Oh Hyeon-gyu, a header from Matt O'Riley and Luis Palma converting from the penalty spot.

And Rodgers feels that the Republic of Ireland international needs to make more of an impact.

Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland, he said: "Mikey needs to do more, that is the reality. 

"He is a big talent, and he comes into the game. However, if he is starting a game then we need more from him."

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