Former Celtic assistant picks out key difference between champions and Rangers this term

John Collins believes Celtic’s failure to cope with the pressure of chasing Rangers has been the biggest difference between the two rivals this season.

Jordan White heads Ross County into the lead in Dingwall. Picture: SNS

Steven Gerrard’s men moved 18 points clear at the top of the table with just eight games to play after their 4-1 victory over Dundee United was followed by Celtic losing 1-0 to Ross County.

The reigning champions have been playing catch-up all campaign after falling behind early in the season due to having matches postponed following Boli Bolingoli’s breaking of Covid-19 protocols. Collins reckons this then had a massive impact on their season.

He said on the Sky Sports broadcast: "It all comes down to Celtic falling behind in terms of points earlier in the season. That then brings tension and a stress and this season Celtic have struggled to cope with that.

"Rangers have been out in front, they’ve been relaxed, composed and consistent. They’re scoring goals and, what they’re really doing, is not conceding any soft goals.”

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