Kenny Miller doesn't buy into the idea that there is a huge 'gap' between Celtic and Rangers as things stand - despite the points chasm between the Glasgow giants.
Ange Postecoglou's team have extended their lead over their rivals since Michael Beale's arrival and sit 13 points clear knowing one more win will make sure of their second successive league title. They also beat Rangers in the Viaplay Cup final and the Scottish Cup semis, knowing a final win over Inverness at Hampden is likely to secure the seventh domestic Treble in their history.
Beale has improved Rangers since taking over from Gio van Bronckhorst but has been criticised for failing to bridge the gap to Celtic, not winning any of his four derbies so far. But Miller hates the suggestion there is a huge gap between the teams - and reckons next season will be far closer once Beale has had a full pre-season under his belt.
He told The Scottish Sun: "Some people are obsessed with the term 'the gap'. When I was involved in it, it was something I absolutely hated. Listen, Celtic could win 56 before Rangers win 56.
"That's clearly possible when there are only two teams that could win the league. But when I was involved in it, I absolutely hated the term 'the gap'.
"It's all some people go on about but what do they actually mean? If they're talking about a points gap then that's easy because that's black and white, you just need to look at the league table. But if they're meaning a gap between the two teams then you need to look at the performances when they play each other.
"And nobody can tell me Celtic have been way better than Rangers in the four Old Firm games that Michael has been the manager. Look, Rangers need to find a way to win because Celtic have been relentless in their pursuit of trophies. I accept that. But if you look at the semi-final on Sunday, I think Rangers were the better team.
"It must be the first game domestically that Ange's team were out-possessed and out-passed. And it was a horrific goal Rangers lost. The game at Celtic Park? There wasn't a lot in that one. The Viaplay Cup final wasn't a great final, either, and it was won by the odd goal.
"So this gap? I really don't see it. If it's a points gap then OK, it's 13 points. But it was nine points when Michael Beale arrived and the form and results of the team since then has been good. So I'll tell you right now that it'll be a lot closer next season. I have no doubt about that.
"Who wins the league is probably going to be decided by who turns up in the Old Firm games. But you can't tell me there is a huge gap. Celtic are definitely ahead of Rangers right now, with Ange further ahead in his journey than Michael.
"But I believe Rangers will make strides this summer. And if Nico Raskin and Todd Cantwell are a sign of things to come, then Rangers will be stronger. It's a really interesting summer coming up."
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