Martin O’Neill has dismissed suggestions that Celtic are favourites to win the Scottish Premiership title, insisting Hearts still hold the upper hand heading into the decisive final stretch.
The title race is set for a dramatic finish, with Celtic needing victories over Motherwell and Hearts to retain their crown.
However, Derek McInnes’ side remain one point clear at the summit and could tighten their grip with a win over Falkirk.
Despite Celtic’s strong recent form, O’Neill believes the pressure remains evenly balanced.
“I don’t agree Celtic are now favourites,” said O’Neill. “I genuinely don’t see it like that. Our fixture against Motherwell is extremely difficult and you would think that, if you were looking at it from the other viewpoint.
“We have to win the game and winning at Fir Park is not easy. Motherwell also have something to play for, so it will be difficult.”
As the title race heads toward a potentially explosive final day, O’Neill refused to suggest the burden has shifted entirely onto Hearts.
“I don’t know, I believe you would have to ask them. That sounds like I’m almost trying to pile pressure on someone else, but we’ve our own pressure we have to deal with.
“We’re not in control of their game. I know it seems an easy equation, today we just need to win our two games. I would have taken that after we lost to Dundee United, of course.
“I say that because it’s in our own hands, but the two games happen to be extremely difficult.”
Celtic’s late charge has been fuelled by key performances from players such as Daizen Maeda, especially following the intense clash with Rangers.
O’Neill praised the mentality shown by his squad during the derby and believes they are embracing the pressure moments that define championship-winning sides.
“I hate to speak too soon on these things as you never know. But I felt they rose to the occasion against Rangers on Sunday.
“When we went behind there were a few moments when we had to reset because your mind is all over the place. We’d just lost a goal early in the proceedings.
“But we had to refocus and we did that by getting the equalising goal before half-time. We then had to go for it and I didn’t actually mind the game being helter-skelter.
“You’re gambling and that’s what we had to do.”
The veteran manager also opened up on his return to the dugout, describing the experience as a fresh chapter in his career while admitting the coming days will shape how the season is remembered.
“I actually have enjoyed it. It’s a kind of renaissance, something that won’t happen again.
“You’re out of the game, watching as a pundit or whatever, then suddenly you are back in again.
“For all I talk about not enjoying it, people know what I mean. I probably have. I’ve enjoyed working with the players and the coaches, it gives you a lift.
“But the next ten days will of course determine how you reflect on it.”
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