Chris Sutton believes that Celtic need to up their game especially after Rangers crashed out of the UEFA Europa League.
Defeat against Benfica means that Philippe Clement’s side will solely focus on domestic honours with a treble on the cards.
Currently, they lead Celtic by two points in the SPFL table with both sides having played the same number of games.
Sutton told the Daily Record on 16 March: “No one can take St Johnstone for granted. Rodgers’ side simply can not afford any more slip ups.
“Rangers going out of the Europa League gives them a clear run at the league and Scottish Cup and that will reduce the margin of error across the city.
“It’s game on and O’Riley and the rest are going to need to start hitting their straps.”
Rangers must take advantage of Celtic’s lack of form
Gers’ exit from the Europa League could indeed be a blessing in disguise for the club.
While European competitions offer prestige and financial rewards, they can also be taxing on a squad, especially for a team aiming to secure domestic honours.
With their focus now solely on the Scottish Premiership and the Scottish Cup, Clement’s side can channel all their energy and resources towards these competitions.
This could allow them to maintain peak performance levels and reduce the risk of player fatigue or injuries, which often occur with congested fixture schedules.
Moreover, Celtic’s recent inconsistency provides Rangers with an opportunity to capitalise on their rivals’ slip-ups.
With only a two-point lead over Celtic in the SPFL table, Gers cannot afford complacency.
They need to maintain their momentum, exploit Celtic’s vulnerabilities, and ensure they do not squander the advantage handed to them by their European exit.
This situation presents them with a clear pathway to potentially clinch domestic glory, but it demands focus, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence from Clement and everyone at the club.
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