Lee McCulloch’s comments will probably be agreed with by many Rangers supporters, but did they show an unnecessary arrogance?
The former Rangers title-winner, who was a massive part of Walter Smith’s three-in-a-row side, dismissed the Edinburgh clubs’ start to the season. Hearts have only lost one match all campaign to storm to the top of the Premiership. Meanwhile, Hibs have been playing some of the best football in the division.
Both of the Edinburgh sides occupy first and second place in the league. It’s certainly been an impressive start from both of the capital sides, and credit must be given.
Yet McCulloch dismissed their early-season form and stated that it’s only a matter of time before the Old Firm overtake them. Speaking in his Evening Times column, McCulloch said the following on the two Edinburgh clubs:
“It is still very early doors but it is unexpected to see Rangers sitting sixth and Celtic just a couple of points ahead of them in third. Come the turn of the year, it will be Rangers and Celtic that are occupying the top two places again.
“Hearts and Hibernian have had very impressive starts overall and credit to them for that. But the more the season goes on, the more you will see the Old Firm start to pull away.
“Rangers are going to need a wee bit of luck when it comes to injuries but if they can keep clear of knocks and suspensions then there is no reason why they can’t mount a challenge for the league.”
Is there any need?
Whilst it’s difficult to argue the probability of McCulloch’s comments, are they really necessary? Both Hearts and Hibs are at the top of the table on merit. With the way both sides are playing, it’s unfair to be so dismissive of them as the season goes on.
Rangers gave Hearts a real going over at Ibrox on Sunday. It was a statement of intent from Steven Gerrard’s side, who really do have their eyes on a title-charge this season. Comments like McCulloch’s, however, only add some fire to both Edinburgh clubs.
It’s fair to say we could all see Hearts slipping away after their loss at Ibrox. It was a painful result for them and it’ll take some effort to bounce back from it, but they haven’t as of yet.
Hibs, however, are playing with some real verve, and deserve real respect for their current form. With the goals they’re scoring and the confidence flowing through Leith, you can’t just say they won’t be a threat. It’s that kind of attitude that saw Rangers lose out on second place to Aberdeen on two occasions.
Fortunately, Gerrard will be more aware of the threat both Edinburgh clubs still pose. Hamilton are next up on Rangers’ fixture list in two weeks, and nothing other than a big three points is a must. The reason for that is because both Edinburgh sides have started so strongly. Dismiss them at you peril – Rangers have to earn the right to get above them.
