Hearts boss Steven Naismith makes unexpected Celtic admission

Many Celtic fans would have been nervous going into the game against Hearts. The Hoops had already lost twice against Steven Naismith's side this season, and even at Parkhead, back in December. With the title race so tight, there was no scope for dropping points. This was a must-win contest for the club against a team that they had had troubles playing against in the recent past.

Celtic did exceptionally well to deal with the situation. Kyogo, who has not been at his best under the management of Rodgers, scored an early brace to take his goal tally for the season to 18.

Matt O'Riley scored from the spot late on to make it 3-0 and put the game beyond any doubt. The result means that Celtic now sit six points ahead of the Rangers, having played a game more than them.

The scoreboard pressure is well and truly on Philippe Clement's side, with them set to take on Kilmarnock next before a trip to Celtic Park next weekend. It would be safe to say that that is going to be one of the most important Glasgow Derbies in recent memories.

Hearts boss Steven Naismith makes unexpected Celtic admission

Through the course of his career, Naismith played for Rangers and Hearts, and he now manages the latter. It should come as no surprise that Celtic fans are not fond of him.

But Naismith has described Celtic as the 'best team in the league' following his side's 3-0 loss at Parkhead. As reported by 67 Hail Hail, he said in his post-match interview with BBC Radio Scotland:

"If you don’t take the chances, Celtic are the best team in the league and most experienced in managing that situation and they did."

Of course, Celtic are in the driver's seat in the title race right now. But we have already seen multiple times this season, how quickly things can change. So, there is zero room for complacency. The Hoops need to get the job done, hopefully next weekend at Parkhead.