Results over performance will be the Celtic motto following their narrow 2-1 triumph over Dundee at Dens Park yesterday.
With four Scottish Premiership matches remaining, the Bhoys retain a three-point advantage over Rangers at the top of the table; they also have a superior goal difference of five, which could prove vital come the end of the season.
Despite some apprehensive moments at Dens Park, veteran winger James Forrest proved his worth once again under Brendan Rodgers, scoring a stunning double and offering a reference point on the flank alongside comfortable ball retention.
Unsurprisingly, the Irishman shared the love for Forrest in his post-match press conference, citing his wider contribution to our domination over Scottish football in the last decade.
He stated: “Two great finishes. I said to the players afterwards that he has been one of the fathers of the great success that this club has had over the last decade, what he’s given on and off the pitch.”
Heart of Midlothian travel to Parkhead on Saturday, and the Scotland international is likely to be a popular choice to start amid the inconsistent nature of our other options on the flank.
Daizen Maeda is scheduled to return to training this week, though it remains to be seen whether he can come back into contention to face Steven Naismith’s outfit.
Tony Watt on who should play ‘massive’ Celtic role in run-in
Strong minds will be needed from Celtic in the face of high pressure, meaning no player can afford to drop their standards amid the tight margins in the Scottish Premiership title race.
Speaking on the Scottish Football Podcast, former Hoops striker Tony Watt is surprised in-form winger Forrest hasn’t featured more for his old side this term in crunch fixtures, and he has also tipped the 32-year-old to be a vital player during the title run-in.
He explained: “I’m not surprised; I think when it comes to the big games, Brendan Rodgers should be looking at him a little bit more because he always produces, gets goals, and brings a bit of energy.
“To be honest, this year, Celtic’s weakest positions have probably been out wide and I think he can bring a bit of consistency for them. He showed that today, two very, very good goals. Two very good finishes.
“It’s about three points, it’s about breathing space, and if they can keep doing that with four games to go, I think he’ll have a massive part to play in the next four.”
Celtic got the job done against Dundee despite nervy moments
Granted, Celtic weren’t at their best against Dundee, though Rodgers’ men must be applauded for the resilience they showed on an occasion that presented its fair share of difficulties.
Tony Docherty runs a tight ship at Dens Park, and three points are never guaranteed, especially against a side desperate to further their chances of securing continental qualification.
Now, a few days on the field at Lennoxtown await before Celtic face Heart of Midlothian in front of a packed-out Parkhead this Saturday.