In this video, we'll make our 26-27 William Hill Scottish Premiership predictions. >> Big pressure. I reckon one of Hibs or Hearts will be flirting with relegation this season. >> What team? >> I thought Motherwell were the best team to watch last year. >> In terms of their style, how they played, the speed. >> Even reinventing players like McGinn. >> Well, I >> I didn't know he could do that. I had Paul McGinn at Dundee and I didn't know he could do half the things he could do. >> I don't know if he knew he could
>> No, but to be honest. >> I think the best signing is the manager. I think that's exactly what Rangers have needed the last few seasons. Whether it be recruitment, style of play. It's all [music] been all all without an understanding of Scottish football and that a draw for a Rangers team away to any team is not good enough. >> I think that the fans felt that the type of character Martin O'Neill is not that he'll get [music] what he wants, but he won't take >> Yeah. >> no getting the best. >> Hello and welcome
to the warm-up brought to you by Final One Standing, William Hill's brand new free-to-play eliminator game which launches this week with a £25,000 jackpot. To celebrate the start of the new season, we're playing a game of Final One Standing to make our predictions for the 26-27 William Hill Scottish Premiership season. And helping me do it is Steven Naismith, James McFadden, and Paul Hartley. How are you doing, lads? >> How we doing? Yeah, all good. >> All good. Ready for the new season? >> Hopefully. >> Hopefully. >> Right, lads. So, we're going to have four rounds
and we're going to go through five teams and we're going to have the final one standing. So, we're going to pick them against each other, see who we think's going to finish Highest, and then the winner will stay on and then we'll go through the rest of the five. We happy? Yeah. Yeah. Starting off, Hibs and Hearts, who do we think's going to finish higher? Who wants to start? We've got a couple of >> I think Hearts. I think Hearts will finish above Hibs this season. >> I think Hearts [clears throat] have from last season,
James Denton coming in has transformed How how work, the player recruitment. But, with this season they they change big change manager, some big players. >> That's the big test I suppose for Jamestown now, losing the manager, losing the captain. It's like this is the big test to see how that actually works. >> be because it's as I told I know that the the analytics are still there in Jamestown and how they work and Everything behind the scenes but it's a big change in the dugout and a big change on the pitch. >> The dugout's the
big one. >> I think because a new manager coming in, new style, new structures. The players have come there has been good recruitment. Yeah. Last season the title goes to the last day because recruitment. But, I do think with a new manager who probably has no understanding of Scottish football. That's the one thing Derek McInnes had, real understanding. Um >> Is that good or bad? >> I think it'll make it tougher. >> I suppose you've seen other managers come in like but Lasku last season who didn't know the the Scottish game but came in and
was able to put his stamp on. Yeah. >> Different pressure. I think that you're coming into a team that's gone so close to winning the league. The expectation the uh Jamestown analytics, you know, Hearts obviously not in not in the Champions League now but you're in a Champions League qualifier. The expectation means that you have to hit the ground running. >> With that European game if they had the same squad as last season it's a massive tough tough game. At top of that you've got to build a new squad that the manager's not been in
That long. >> No. >> I think I think he's got a good pedigree the manager coming from Belgium. I think I look at Hearts I think the spine of the team Swallows left. >> Yeah. >> Halkett's injured. Devlin's left and Shankland. >> Yeah. >> It's massive right down the spine of the Team. >> He's been injured as well. >> Yeah and and how do you replace that? It's not quite easy. You don't get time. >> No. >> You know you don't you know what the Hearts fans are like as Steven know. You need you need
to win you need to hit the ground running [snorts] and they go to Aberdeen this weekend and that is not an Easy game. >> I am with you though I think through the full season by the end part of the season I think they'll have pushed and it'll be a big three I feel. >> How long >> do you think he'll have to get it all clicking? Has he just got these European qualifiers, get them out of the way? >> I think they've identified him as being the right the right candidate. Um you you can't
ignore the the turnover And and players that they the guys you've just mentioned. Something that you look at the identity Hearts last season. You think, you know, the big moments. How can Finlay coming up scoring goals being, you know, >> They're losing >> aggressive and stuff like that. Yeah. >> Of course. The goalkeeper was >> The goalkeeper was good last year. >> Mhm. >> He He He He He was a good big presence. Devlin in the middle of the park, you know, tenacious. Uh but the biggest thing is the goalscorer. >> Yeah. >> How do
you replace that 20-odd goals a season? >> Leader. >> Captain. >> Leader. >> Uh big personalities, especially the right down the spine of the team. He's got a lot of work to do. Uh I think They brought something like 10 players in. Uh it's not easy to try and gel them straight away. You've got the the Champions League qualifier. Two poor results. That was always going to be a a tough game. Um and then they've got to go away next week again. Um >> Castillejo is in Prague as well. >> The key for me is
and it's hard to say the fans Playing staying with the squad as long as possible because it's going to be a rocky road this first couple of months. >> The fans at Tynecastle, they're not usually that patient. >> It's close. >> You know what I'm saying? You played there. You managed there. I've played there. When Tynecastle when it's going great, it's brilliant. It's an unbelievable stadium. I think it's the I think it's The best atmosphere in Scotland. But when it's not going so well, how did he I was listening to the the commentary last night
coming down it and they said Hearts looked a bit soft, a bit powder puff. It can't be allowed at Tynecastle. The The supporters will just not put up with it. >> Boyce and Castillejo as well. Do you think they'll both stay come the end of the summer? One will go, both will go? >> I think Boyce is the one who'll go. I think Boyce will go. I think if they can get a an offer of I don't know, 8 million, 6 million, in million. >> That's the model. >> I think he'll be away that's that's
that's what the best are saying. >> Nobody looked to sell him. If somebody comes in with the right offer as you say then he'll he'll >> If they buy him for half a million pound. So you have all these stations >> that we're speaking about does it not make you think there's a small chance that Hibs could go and pip them or >> No. >> Do we still think that despite all the players they've lost? >> No, Hearts have had a poor start as well. Of course, yeah. Of course, and they'll obviously still get the
the second leg to play it when we're speaking about this, but do you see that there's going to be cuz It would need to be a big drop-off for Hearts and a big improvement for Hibs? For now. >> feel for Hibs a little bit from last season that Hearts did so well? >> Yeah. >> That maybe Hibs didn't quite get the >> It changes dynamic in the city cuz it's the two teams. >> But it was it that still a good season for Hibs last season just because Hearts did so well maybe it got overshadowed
Slightly or >> was. I think it was a decent season. Is it is it an acceptable season for a young manager who's went in and it has been ropy for years at Hibs. >> It's only good for them because Hearts are the ones that are going to have the line now. And if Hearts are the ones that are going to win the league again >> We had a wee play back towards the end of the Hibs fans, but I think when you Look at Hibs they need to be challenging again in Europe every year. And
they need [music] to try and the cups are the big thing. They're not going to win the league. But they need to challenge. >> you just said that about Hearts. I know they didn't they? Right, so you're still the point's still valid, but >> as close as they did with the three points is that going to change? >> But the two they've got in Jamestown I think changes that. I think you see Jamestown coming in it shows how tough recruitment is for Scottish teams. Aberdeen, Hibs, Motherwell, these teams it's recruitment's so difficult in Scotland. >>
How do you think Hibs' recruitment has been this summer? >> Time will tell. >> Remains to be seen a little bit of something. Yeah. >> But I'd say I would have said that in January and January's recruitment was very good. >> Yeah. So, we're going >> Uh it's going to be tough. I think your point's absolutely spot on. They've not had that stability and it looks like this is the the be almost looking at last season. Take take hearts out of the equation for Hibs and The fans as a disappointment because it wasn't as good
as the season before, but you've got seasons back-to-back in Europe. >> I think I think Lee Johnson has done a good job there. I think he's steady the ship. Cuz he's been the only manager over the past 10 years. I I think he's done a a good job. I think he's steady the ship. Um obviously last week's result was no Great, but they can they can overturn that in in Thursday night to get you know to get through. And I I fancy them to get through. >> So both might have good seasons. Hibs will still
have a good season this season, but we're saying Hearts will >> I'm going for the Hearts. >> Both top six. Hearts will go through. >> Clean sweep for Hearts. Hearts, yep. I think I'd agree. So >> What do you think is going to happen Then? >> It's a big pressure. I reckon one of Hibs or Hearts will be flirting with relegation this season. >> What team? >> Oh relegation. Down there. At least well, a couple of years ago no one would have thought that. They were both down there around Christmas time. It would probably have
to be Hibs, but I don't know. But every so often you see one of the other teams getting Relegated, but I don't know. Maybe they'll be We'll see. The Ross County result as well. I'm not sure. >> Back here. >> Why do you think that? Just >> I just have a feeling, yeah. Just every so often I think one of those clubs will probably have a bad season. >> I think the big teams will all be top six. >> Yeah. But we've had that the last couple Of years. So surely one of them will I
don't know. Someone Someone big will be down >> So have you enjoyed visiting Easter Road cuz you've >> I probably [laughter] won't be going back now. I've got a terrible record as it is there as it is, so I won't be going back this season. But we're all going Hearts. >> Yeah. >> Hearts finish above Hibs who are going To get relegated. >> [laughter] >> All right, lads. Round two. Hearts versus Motherwell. There's only one man we can start with here for Motherwell. James. >> I think it's going to be Well, we don't know what's
going to going to happen Motherwell. He's is there. >> Martindale is still there So far. Lost some key players but spoke a little bit Hearts and the model that they they want. If they get good money for Braga then they sell them. Elijah just for me was the best player in the league last season. I thought that the impact they had in games even just watch just a player that you want to go and watch. >> Great World Cup as well. >> That will help them. >> Oh, the style was >> The style made them
massively. >> Oh, it did. It did. There's no doubt. Um I watched the I was at the the first leg against Torshavn and I was impressed by Alfred Johannsson and what he was doing because you're always worried like as you end with the last year I want off. Is there anybody going to be able to replicate it and it's too early to say whether they can but early signs of style, Performance are very similar. >> That's what I was about to say. >> Was he recommended from St. Johnstone? You probably so far I don't think
you could get any better. Was he recommended from St. Johnstone? >> Potentially. They use the same kind of model to to recruit them. I think he's similar career path and and you know, working in youth teams. He managed Rosenborg, you know, they're obviously not the the team that used to Be. >> He talked about the style. You know, the players that are still there this year from last year. I think they would find that strange if you try change the style. >> Yeah. >> You know, some of the players were I thought Motherwell were the
best team we watched last year in terms of their style, how they played, the speed. >> Even reinventing players like McGinn. >> Well, I even with Paul McGinn at Dundee, I didn't know he could do half the things he could do. >> I don't know if he knew he could do >> He's taking the ball out and building the game and playing through the thirds and and obviously Doolan. And I think if you change that style then it then becomes a little bit more difficult. >> See if the style is the same, right? How do
you think it'll be tougher this season for them because the teams will give them more respect this season but they've also played against that style. >> Yeah. >> Um >> I don't know how it it looks uh you would need to see more games. It looks similar in terms of their build-up phase as the two central midfielders are close together. They they go and play through them, Presemel And Fadinga, which keeps that continuity with which you need. Going forward, I don't know how that's going to look because Louis just when he played was operating off
a side, but >> free >> The fullbacks are playing like wingers. And and in that respect, I I get your point. I don't know how their rotations are going to be because I think some teams looked at how to go and press Motherwell because they maybe had a a clear a better idea this time at home how what the next pass was and how to set that trap to go and maybe put them under a bit of pressure. Having said that, the manager is really good >> at problem-solving in the games last season. He was
really good. >> He was. >> Mas Kwesi was obviously top scorer last season. Can you see him staying staying or is the right not do you think so? >> I'll be honest, if somebody comes in with talk about offers of they've sold Josh for what? Was it 5 million? They can't knock that back. >> Are you surprised that Josh didn't stay in Scotland? >> I'm surprised I'm surprised that there was no talk him going to Celtic or Rangers. >> Celtic, yeah. >> And I cannot believe they didn't come in for him. >> Do you think
it's just the speed at which Celtic have done business? Would they have been in >> Some of these ones they were just quicker to that. Celtic and Rangers have been struggling for for wing players, so >> Creative? >> Creative players creative players coming off the side that can score, that can can set chances up. >> I I >> I think probably any element of them Going that's too much. >> Yeah. >> Would they have the attacking flair [clears throat] and ability this season? >> a challenge. I think the challenge for Mas Kwesi is to replicate
what he done last season. I think he still will be there. But I do think it's You know what it's like? You're on a roll that season and your confidence was through the roof and Everything you touch is scores and it's just good. You get to the end of the season, you get the plaudits. Right, now you need to go again. >> It's hard It's hard to start. It's hard It's hard for some of the teams like Motherwell don't know don't >> predicted how well Motherwell would do last year. It's hard to do that again.
It's a wee bit like if you want to talk about Falkirk also. It's no easy to go and >> high expectations >> to do that again. And they'll lose key players, good players that were good in the system. >> They are the difference like Watt opening up and playing forward constantly. Finding new players is tough. >> But they could do it before. They bring Watt from St. Johnstone who at the end was getting into the team, But I don't think many people would have looked at Mensing. That's a tremendous signing. Priestley, I watched him. Looks
like he can step in for Masson he say got a lot of plaudits because he was top goal scorer. Fading out for me is It is a brilliant football player. You've got Longridge in the left back area. Souttar and McGinn could be All right. The goalie is a big one. But when Cammy Bell went into the team a lot of the fans wanted Oxley in the team because they felt he was a better goalkeeper. But Yiannis wanted somebody that was better with the ball at his feet. And Carson looks like he's going to be comfortable.
Um Again, because they're asking him to play He's played like a sweeper. I mean, he could have been He could have been Done for the halfway line a couple of times. But because they're asking him to play high up the pitch as a sweeper keeper, then they they will they will give up opportunities. They need to I know Masson he needs to score the goals. He needs to get a striker in. The chances last week Ibrahim Said should have had a hat-trick and that's no exaggeration. It could have been a five a five-nil Victory. >>
much as Masson he was scorer, I still don't think there was He could maybe have got more himself. I think he could say and there wasn't maybe another standout striker alongside him. Nigro I think was second who is you know, not necessarily a number nine as well. So >> No, they need a striker. They They still need players. Playing some young players and it's great to see. They've got the Money to go and spend. >> But what do you do? Like do do you go and try and find a 50 grand 100 grand guy? Just
that do you try and push the boat out and spend that that extra extra money. >> Could Europe hold them back if they were to go far, even reach the league table phase? That's all >> I think just for squad size. See squad size and rotations and picking up injuries. It's it'll be key. They'll all Pick [snorts] up injuries for a squad size of Motherwell's. >> But you've got the money there, as you said, to maybe not go and spend amounts of money but you can carry a bigger squad. >> I probably That was probably
my downfall at Hearts in my second season was having a bigger squad than they That for the 80 scene Motherwell, I find that that'll be harder to keep if you have a bigger squad because your players Aren't even playing as many minutes in that. >> The only thing is he's playing the young he's getting the young boys a chance. So maybe it is a case he's still looking for these starters knowing that the younger ones can supplement it and and it gives them that belief to go >> And they were almost there or thereabouts for
a four-way title race for a couple weeks, weren't they, last season? Just as people started talking Talking about it. It's my fault. They're a good they're a good watch, a really good watch, I thought, last year. >> But can they do it again? Can they go and at least get to I know we're talking about Hearts now. Can they finish above Hearts? Would they be able to push for a third or >> I think top six would be looked to be seen as a successful >> and a decent comfort. >> You don't you don't know.
It's a big Change for Hearts. So it might take a bit of time and I I they will get it right. How long's that going to take? Is it five games into the season? Is it going to happen straight away? Is it 10 games? So by that point, talk about the seamless transition for Motherwell. Could they be in a position to go and finish above Hearts? >> And let's see. Do you reckon they will? Do you do the vote? >> No, I think >> I thought we'd maybe get two-one on this one, but no. Are
we going for another Hearts >> clean sweep? >> There's still a lot a lot to be done in terms of the squad for Motherwell. Um and >> Maybe maybe goal difference, we'll see. Hearts above them. >> I you you you have to you have to fancy Hearts are going to be in a good Position this season, so reluctantly I'll go for Hearts. >> So Hearts have won the first two rounds. >> Mhm. Final One Standing is back and this season there's a brand new William Hill Scottish Premiership edition. We're kicking off with a 25K jackpot.
The game is free to enter and your opening pick must be in by 8:00 p.m. this Friday, 31st of July. The rules are simple. Pick a Scottish Premiership team to win each round and if they do, you're through. If They don't, you're out. The Final One Standing Scottish Premiership edition now live on William Hill 18+ T's and C's apply. Good luck. So, moving on. Next round, we've got Hearts or Rangers. Who do we think? Should we just start the conversation off with Rangers? Shankland, Cammy Devlin. >> Yeah. >> McInnes. >> I think they've I I
think the best signings are a manager. I think that's Exactly what Rangers have needed the last few seasons. Whether it be recruitment, style of play. It's all been probably all without an understanding of Scottish football and that a draw for a Rangers team away at any team is not good enough. And that in the previous years looks as if that's not been the case in terms of We're doing well, we're building. I think Derek McInnes is similar to when he goes into Hearts. He makes it a us. [clears throat] This is a squad. We're here
to do business. I know what Scottish football is about. That's what it screams out to me at the moment. >> Yeah. You have to agree. You look at Hearts and last season they James Tavernier and analytics rightly so rightly so gets a lot of the credit, but Derek McInnes goes in and changes the the mentality. He he uses, you know, that the feel-good factor to have a mentality of yes, we're going to have you know, Bragas and Kazeeridis and they're going to come in and and they're going to excite and have a bit of flair,
but you're going to have players that Are that competitive, that have character and mentality. And that that know what's not just this is how you're going to win a game. It has to be this way. It's we can find a way to win games. So, I think going into Rangers last season Russell Martin was asked, Danny Rowe was asked almost weekly or whenever there was a bad result, mentality, character. Is that Is that a problem? >> It seems like a problem. This summer has Been Plus he's got his business done fairly early. But he knows
the club. He He knows what Rangers are all about. I think he's got the respect of the players. That man management, you know, I think he'll he doesn't suffer fools. I think he knows how to win a game of football. Yeah. Doesn't matter what way. It It both of them teams you need to win. You need to find a way of winning. I think that's the key part. Like >> [clears throat] >> loads of modern-day managers will talk about their select style and philosophy. If he looks at Motherwell last season goes, "Well, if they can
do it, we It's a different the pressure and intensity at the top end is so different. And ultimately, it's winning games. And I think that's where Rangers over the years have went away for that too much. And so from the starting point is let's Win, and then we can build on that. >> I think they used to They used to still say it. >> I I I I I know I I know it's all about winning, but then you wouldn't really see a team >> Yeah. A team that had that >> Maybe they were told
they had to say that. >> to Cuz winning's Football's easy when you're winning. And And running's easy when you're winning And things are going well. It's the character when it's not going your way. What do you do to in response to that? And I think Derek brings that that character to the team. >> And the two signings from Hearts, Shankland and Devlin, complement the squad in that Che Adams won't be under as much pressure. So, when Rangers drop points and everybody's going, "Che Adams didn't score." I think there'll be less of that And he'll perform
better with a Shankland. >> Do you think they'll perform well together? Do you think they've got Cuz it was Shankland and Boycie who were good last year. I don't know if Che Adams would be the same type of player to >> makes players better. >> [clears throat] >> Whether it's dropping off to that little number 10 Position, he's good at that, you know that, Steven. He can drop in and he can link the game. He's a good foot He's got a good brain. >> Yeah. >> But he's a goalscorer. and he he'll he'll get loads
of chances at Rangers. >> Yeah. >> He'll score plenty of goals there. >> they need to bring in some creativity though. >> Yeah. I saw that. >> They talked about wingers, weren't they? Try and bring in a couple of wingers to try and >> Would Askildsen be their main creative player right now? Apart from Askildsen, is there anybody else that going into this first game? >> Based on last season, you would say no because I don't think he looked that creative. I think Askildsen technically is outstanding football player. Everything he does is clean. His touch
Is excellent. >> Strong. >> He He just doesn't have any He needs a bit of urgency. >> Where would he fit inside of Derek McInnes' team? Would McInnes play the same way he played at Hearts? And if so, would Askildsen >> If you think of Derek McInnes is playing a 4-4-2 or a 4-2-3-1 type, he's got to be in one of the wider playing inside on one of the wider areas, I would think. I Don't think he could sit in a midfield, too. I don't think Derek McInnes would play him in that. >> No. >>
But I agree. We played against him when he was at Wigan. And [snorts] as a footballer, you're going, "He's got everything." pace, power. But it's the mentality. It's the Commitment and the >> he needs to string it together, doesn't he, for the season now? So, we'll see. Maybe he's the man to >> He's a bit of a well-rounded >> They still don't need more than that. No, they need They need an actual wide one-v-one guy. >> Casanova No points in that. >> like Mikey Johnston, you know, he could off the side. He's got good pace
and he'll he'll get by people. But I think Derek He likes having wingers in the team. Even going away back to his Aberdeen days, he'd Hayes and and McGinn. And he likes to get balls into the box. And that's what That's what Shankland does. They want They need service. >> Would Curtis fit in that? >> Yeah. >> So, I'm not sure. I think he's progressed really well in the last year. >> [clears throat] >> Um So, he's definitely He's somebody who probably in the eye doesn't look the quickest of that, but he is quick and
he always gets chances and crosses. >> Looks like he's scored a goal also. >> Like cuz when he came through, it was it looked like I can only play on the left. I hate that more than anything where he looks more suited to playing on the left, but at Kilmarnock, he's played Right back. He's played in the right. >> He's got a good intelligence. But it I think for this part, it's the bigger picture. He's a He's somebody who's a potential talent and asset. So, if he's not getting the minutes, then give him 6 months
in place somewhere and bring him back. But, that's a bigger picture thing. Rangers probably aren't there at that stage at the moment. They're like, "No, no. Now, we need to win." >> But, do you think McInnes is the perfect Type of manager to be able to bring for young Scottish lads? Because the last couple years, Celtic and Rangers haven't really given too many opportunities to young players. So, is he the man to >> But, but Finlay Cotter has put himself in a position where he has to be given an opportunity. He's brave. He goes at
one to command up. He's an international player. With a view of going back and and having An impact. >> And he thrives going at command at that. >> Hence the reason. >> He makes the [snorts] World Cup because he's playing for the national team. He's playing for the national >> These These young players now, they they can't They need to play minutes. Get them out and play in whatever to to give themselves a chance. >> They want to go off and and >> [laughter] >> definitely get some minutes under So, to do a vote then,
Hearts or Rangers? >> I think Rangers. >> When it stays on. >> I think Rangers. >> Hearts obviously pipped Rangers last season to >> Yeah, I I would go Rangers, I think, for all the reasons we've just spoke about with Derek McInnes. And then, the the change at at Hearts means that we don't Know how the season's going to start, but I would I would say that Derek's the the change isn't going to be as big for Rangers as it is for Hearts at this point in time. >> Yeah. >> So, another clean sweep for
Rangers. >> Yeah, I think I'd agree as well. Yeah, I don't think they'll have a badder start this year. >> I think they'll start this season like they did last With Hearts. They'll just They'll just get wins. >> Last minute against Hearts is a big point, isn't it? >> 100% >> I think you'll I think you'll find out on Friday night. >> I It builds momentum. >> Yeah, that's what it'll be. It's not going to be an easy game going to Tannadice, but it'll be seeing his team listen, we need to win today. >> And
a big advantage playing before or play on the Monday as well, which I don't think has happened for >> [laughter] >> But they've not been ahead of Celtic on that first couple of days for years, have they? So just psychologically, like say getting that first win and just having the three points >> happy to be way alone then and maybe top. >> Of course, well, yeah, I agree, but so Rangers anyway, yeah, clean sheet for Rangers. Early kick off on the Friday. So that brings us to our final round. Rangers or Celtic? Let's talk about
Celtic first, new signing, new record transfer fee paid as well. >> of all, do you think it's the right decision Martin O'Neill's then? Um I think it showed last season That he's well similar to what he did when he won the league and and won the cup. I was surprised that that it was appointed because the he was brought in initially in an interim period. They go for Wilfried Nancy. The timing of that change was wrong for me and then they panicked. And when when right, we need to bring him in to get to the
end of the season. You would then expect that that Recruitment process starts and who's going to replace him because you're going to have to do it again. He's he's signed a year's contract, but >> They'll they'll need you to replace him next year. >> I think that the fans felt that the type of character Martin O'Neill is not that he'll get what he wants, but he won't take >> Yeah. >> no getting the best. I was surprised, but when you look at the the business that's been done, that that's two strikers they've brought in that
they've needed since No January there, the January before. >> 18 months ago, a year ago that Celtic have needed two strikers. >> [clears throat] >> It's crazy it goes that long when it's been probably four windows that Everybody's said the same thing. But the signing they've made 11 million is a very good signing. The chat of the other two signings coming in are very good quality. >> Yeah. >> That's what they need. >> That's what I think Martin O'Neill said that the other day that it's not the amount of players they brought in, it's the
quality players. You seen the Players that they brought in January, they just they never played. They were never used to it. They were never used to it. Listen, they they still need a bit I still think they need about eight players in. I I still think they need a lot of players cuz >> What about Carl Starfelt and Vickers and that coming back? He'll help you, don't You think? >> They need to keep him fit. He's your first choice center half for me. I still think they need another one in. They might need a right
back. Johnston talking going. >> I don't think they'll sell him. >> No, they can't they but he sets the price money money talks at Celtic. >> How do you keep him if he wants to go? >> But they they do it they do sell players. I still think they need a Left back, you know, cuz Tierney you're never quite sure. Bernabei came in last year. Angles >> The left back the chat of Greg Taylor. >> I think that would be an excellent signing. >> Yes, and he he done a brilliant job at Celtic. >> I
think that was one of the biggest losses. I I actually thought Bernabei was a good player. I quite liked him. Um Angles I think he'll go. Hatate will go. So then you need three midfielders in. Bernardo didn't hasn't really played. The wingers still I still think they're short. >> Talking about >> So I still think you're needing >> Mhm. >> at least six but it could be eight players. >> I think it all depends on that that's based on the fact you think That Johnston, Hatate, Angles >> Yeah. >> are going to leave. >> And
the goalkeeper. Fada still I still think you need a goalkeeper. >> If if if they stay then they don't need as many players clearly. >> Vickers you know >> I >> Quite sure you are. Cuz the balance didn't it look right? They trust their skills. Didn't it look right that the balance with the two lefties? >> No, you can get by and Celtic did last season in a lot of cases. They got by because that's what they had. >> And and there's a 40 million pound game yeah in the Champions League. >> It was the
same last year, wasn't it? They were kind of maybe holding off to see how they got on against Karagandy before the game. >> They can't. >> Actually made the same >> Two signings I've made are good. >> same mistakes all the time. >> The two signings I've made look good. I think Castro is I think he's top notch. I think he could be a bargain at 11 million pound. I just think he Look at his record. Who scored against And the level he scored at. Champions League. >> Does it worry you that the Bodø/Glimt Players
that leave Bodø/Glimt don't replicate it? >> I would say it's probably a great place for them to be, right? It's a great >> No, I think I think he I think he'll be a smasher. I think he'll I think he's going to I think he's going to be really good at Celtic. I I really do. I think it's what they needed. >> They needed two strikers in the summer. >> Two strikers. Correct me, but wasn't he a striker but they played him there? So, [clears throat] they've got that hopefully sorted. But it's still there's gaps
in the team. >> you're taking out of your team with Maeda. >> I. >> I mean Juranovic Juranovic looks like he's >> He might He could play off a side also. He They're saying I still think they're they're players short and they need to get them in. >> They've started well. I think you look at last season Abada, Kyogo, Hatate to see for me they didn't go forward enough. That's 10 million on two players that that that that Hatate did contribute a lot. >> that Celtic Celtic fans have obviously been really critical of the board
but 17 million [clears throat] quid for a Scottish team to spend on two players is a lot of money. >> And they're going to be coming back at Some stage was he injured? >> I don't think so. I don't think he >> Just just counting him this season. >> He's been a long long time out to come back into the team. >> See See on the point of 17 million it is a big outlay. It's a year too late. It's a year too late. No no too late cuz they can go but they should have
brought him in last year. >> 10 million for me this right thing is the transfer fee For Carl Starfelt. So, >> So, you've got to think what is the thought? Like you you're in a position where you've consistently won the league. What what's the thought process to not just keep going getting that gap bigger bigger bigger bigger? >> they're still They've not got a like a technical director and a director of football and head of recruitment. Have They? They're still not. >> Mhm. >> I don't know who the recruitment >> it's a good start but
they need far more than >> I say they're still think that they're well they're still well short of the team. And if Ange goes, that's a talk and a tie. He doesn't look happy anyway. McGregor's in there. He's in there Himself. >> You mentioned Cinar Salou earlier. Do you not think he could be number [clears throat] one for a full season? I think he did well at times last year, but >> I think he's going to be a number one but um it's a big ask for to come in and be number one in terms
of if there's a if there's a mistake it's a goal, which then can cost you. Whereas if you have a bit More experience. >> It's a tough one now for Celtic. Say either go and spend big on a keeper to be number one or they back Cinar Salou and they go to number two and it's like >> Two years ago they spent five million. >> Barkas and it didn't work out. Exactly. Yeah, so maybe that's in the >> I think they need to balance. Cinar Salou has been the backup goalkeeper. I think they need to
bring a number one in. To if you're going to go with Cinar Salou, fine, but to challenge him. >> So it sounds like the big issues for Celtic are still recruitment. Rangers have obviously signed a lot of players so far. Still a long way to go in the window, but if you had to give me your predictions on who's going to finish ahead. >> Uh Celtic. Celtic. >> I think Rangers. Just for the recruitment and Derek McInnes. >> I think that's the deciding vote. >> I think Celtic. >> Celtic as well. >> I think they're
getting the getting the two strikers in is a massive step forward. It should be a signal of intent to say, "Right, actually this is what's going to happen." They still need more players, I absolutely agree, but I think they'll Get them. And as much as you're saying Derek McInnes, Martin O'Neill again, I think that Celtic will win it. >> I think I'd agree just about. Just history dictates, doesn't it? Celtic are going to go and win the league, so it's hard to say. I think this is a very hard season to predict with all the
transfers and still things to happen. Do you think the title race could go down to the wire, a little bit like last year? And If so, McInnes, what's he learned from that experience? >> Yeah, I think it will be a really entertaining title race for the fact that the teams are all progressing in terms of their squads, but other teams I think will take more points and make the games tougher. Um I think Derek McInnes what we have learned I think the biggest thing last season was when key players Come out of the team, you
didn't have that same quality that would get you over the line. So I think that he's obviously building a squad where he's going to have options and I think that will help him more this season than last season. >> He's patching it together a bit, wasn't he sometimes with the red cards that they had? It was all a little bit >> All right. >> And then you're losing the last two weeks of the season you lose two two Kellys. >> Well, Rogic wasn't right in the final game as well. >> Rogic so I think the
injuries was a big big part of it. >> But even dropping points away from home >> Yeah. >> you know at that vital stage of the season was maybe something You have to find a way of winning when you're when you're going for titles. When it comes down to the nitty-gritty. >> Yeah. >> I think it's tough here. You're losing key players at key moments and all that can happen at any point, but you would expect that they'll have a a a strong a squad and at Rangers than what they had last season. >> But
will it go down to the final three Minutes or whatever it was? >> Maybe not as tight as that. I think it'll be a last it'll definitely be after this point. Nobody's going to be far enough away that it's comfortable when that is. >> I don't think it will. That's that's a once in a lifetime that. >> That's once every 40 years. >> So that's Celtic predicted to win the league. Let's have a little look at some of the other teams. Top six, who do you Think could make up the top half? >> I think
Aberdeen. >> Aberdeen, no European football. >> I think yeah, but I think Steven's recruited well. Um British based players that he's brought in. First time looking at them pre-season. When we played them, [clears throat] changed his style a wee bit, changed his system. Um I think Aberdeen will have a a better season this year. >> I think they're the I think they're the Ones that people it'll be a contrast from last season to this season. I think you touched on the signings as well as but you've got Mayo and Lines who Mayo I think is
a young center half who's now first team football progressing. He's had three or four years now where he's played first team football. Really good signing at a good age. Lines with experience, versatility. >> Nisbet. >> Nisbet's I think that all that all Complements Nisbet a wee bit better. >> Players who know the league as well. So maybe they like I said just >> I think he's a manager that's in the mold of Derek McInnes that he knows what he wants and he's happy to just tell you what he wants. He did it at St. Mirren.
You've seen the the recruitment they did there. >> No one has a bigger budget as Aberdeen and he got them well organized. They were well drilled. They were hard to Beat. And I think that's what they've said about Aberdeen over the last few years being a little bit a little bit too nice, a little bit too soft. I can see with with with Stephen's team already they look they're big, they're strong, they're fit. And I think I think they'll have going to have a good season. >> One big difference from his St. Mirren to Aberdeen
is when teams are happy to take a draw or sit deeper against Aberdeen, that's probably a difference that he'll come face. The need >> Expectation again. >> Yeah, as well. I think that when you look at by accounts Jim Goodwin and his style quiet, not really you know not really not I wouldn't say demanding but not a ranter not a shouter. The way he trained was a bit more Yeah, less tempo a bit longer. Robbie's training >> Yeah, he's a angry man he shouts over the summer and they've said the pre-season has been so tough.
>> So the contrast there's huge which means the demand is then on the players. >> I suppose yeah it's hard not to look past Aberdeen for that top six if you say he's got St. Mirren up there he's now at a bigger club like Aberdeen you'd imagine >> They should they should be. I mean we're talking about a size of club yeah. Potentially getting in the top six Aberdeen should be up where shouldn't be a question of top four they should be. >> But I'm going to throw Kelly in there. I think Kelly will be
>> I think Kelly will be competitive. I think Dundee I don't know I think I think Steven did a good job at at Dundee last year. I think >> great value and if I >> Listen, you know how [laughter] he is. Very slow and >> Every time he gets a new job he thinks that it's his >> You know, I I think Stephen he gets some criticism when he took that job. And also that the the Prem Cup was You know, they had a difficult start. But I think I think they might surprise a few
people this year. >> That's my point in that I think a lot of The teams in the league will cause problems to the top teams. >> I think it'll be a strong league all all round. I think it will be. >> The fans will be spending money in the buying >> I think getting players. Can't believe in you going missing though. Two big players from I know you can get potential players that are similar mold that >> I think they'll do all right. >> Falkirk >> They got second in the top six last year. How
do you think they'll >> Lost Barney Stewart >> I think lost >> Miller lost Tate >> Yeah. >> That's a tough one and and probably what's made John McGlynn McGlynn's work stand out so much as he's had these players for three four years. They know Him like the back of his hand. Know what he wants. >> Yeah, a lot of them came up through League One. >> Yeah. So now he's doing a bit of a rebuild. Where expectations high and he's in the eyes of everyone. >> perfect man to do it though. He could go
and pick some >> I I understand the style. >> Start >> He's seen he can he's got a good eye for A player. He knows a player and he's >> But the work he does, man. >> Ah, listen. I worked with John at Hearts and he's relentless and his detail is is outstanding. Um he's done an outstanding job there. But they always say second season is more difficult. You look at Motherwell's second season. Even when Doc was at Dundee the second was at Dundee we get six first season top six. The second season's [clears throat]
always the toughest for a manager. >> Helps then having a turnover of players? Or can it help him? >> I think so. Yeah. I I think I think Falkirk will be fine. >> As in a refresh. >> I so you've not got the same group and saying right you've done it last year do it again. You're actually bringing in >> Yeah. >> fresher players that that that are new And they want to They want to feel part of it, and they want to go and How do you think St. Johnstone will do? I think they'll
struggle. I don't know. >> Cuz I think it'll be tough. If Carey comes in at the start in the Premier League, has his style, gets plaudits, does well. Yes, they go down, but It was already St. Johnstone to stay up. Carey's a threat in every game. >> As we seen, though, he played in Preseason, and he's in They were good. They actually The style is very good. You seen a lot of them in the Championship last year. Um I hope I'm not I think for for for St. Johnstone to stay up. >> Yeah. >> They
you won't find a way to just just stay in the division. I like the work that he's done there. >> They missed out on the Premier Sports Cup, didn't they? League Cup. They didn't get through the groups. >> that McPake is was huge for them last season. I think that watching them last season, the the setup defensively didn't they look great, and I don't see a big change in that. I feel that they then might be cuz they're not going to sit back. They're going to keep going forward. >> Yeah. >> They take chances. They
go I mean, they go They concede against these five, you feel like, what is what is actually going on? So, that would be my concern. I'm looking forward to seeing guys like Jamie Gullan stepping up and cuz he him last season, McPake got all the plaudits, and rightfully so, because he was excellent. Gullan really impressed me. I did I thought when he was younger, he was more of a physical striker that was a channel Runner, and maybe really I didn't I didn't know how good he was technically. >> He was going three kicks last season,
and yeah. >> His delivery phenomenal. He's He's a He's intelligent to play as a 10 or go through as a nine or play off the side. I'm looking forward to seeing how how he does. >> Cuz a lot of the players are guys who maybe had a taste of Premier League, not really done it. >> Yeah. >> Back in the Championship, built up. It's how can they >> Yeah. >> Just on the top six before we maybe talk about the teams that will struggle a little bit more. Dundee United? Could they >> Probably because we've
no be honest, really speaking about them. Aberdeen have got to get better. Flying under the radar, Aberdeen. >> I think that either could. They definitely It's going to be strong. It's I think the top six teams, but it's going to be a fight to the end. >> And then so just a struggle potentially maybe St. Johnstone we feel like St. Mirren possibly as well could have a tough season. >> Yeah. >> Craig Levein. >> I mean St. Mirren have My heart over achieved. >> That. For three seasons they've done everything they can. Top six year
won a trophy. And then you're the next that's the >> Won a European tie as well, didn't you get to Europe? They actually went and won a couple. >> Stephen Robinson and he has changed the style of it. >> The style of the system's changed. They've lost some players. They've Brought a quite young quite a young team. >> They need that experience I think. >> You've got to give them a chance, haven't you? They'll not be easy. You're saying about St. Johnstone it'll be be tough, but I think these guys will look at the start
of the season just make sure we try and stay in the division. >> They've done a good job in recruitment. You know, Keith Lasley done an interview and saying they want to model they bring in through academy players and that is absolutely applaud it without doubt. So they've got a good academy, but you need to bring the right experience in. You look at how they've set up a back four. Marcus Fraser and Alex Gogic as two center backs. I'm not sure that's I'm not sure that's I think you need that. >> They struggled going forward
last year, Though, didn't they? So they >> They had Eamonn Brophy up top who's not really a a striker. He played He plays off the side or as a number 10. He played him through the middle. He's a good player. Yeah, he's a good young player. >> Have they made attacking signings that could help them out with this like they probably still need experience. >> They need Sorry, Kyle Lafferty which is He's going to be >> I I think he might go. I think he might go. >> The one still has it as well with
the experience. >> captain So >> Yeah, Phillips is a big player for them especially in that playoff as well, wasn't he against This one? >> Yeah, I think that you know, St. Mirren for the one the cup massively under performed. Yeah, there's no no doubt About that, but they managed to stay up. It's a big job for Craig Levein because he's making that change in style. It's important for me you're used to managed that you've got experience and it's all right saying you go and play young players and you want to play this way. You
need to get experience in the building because when you're a new manager and a young one, you need the button. You need players to say he's doing the right things. Maybe not Getting the results particularly in times where times are hard. He needs to get some experience. >> thing though is he got that period before the end of the season. Yeah. So it's not his first job. >> All right. >> Go face of it. He's had that running bit of experience himself. Yeah. Cool. Should be a good season. Looking forward to it. >> Can't wait.
How do you think the predictions went? Think people will agree with that. >> Absolutely. No way they're going to get [laughter] destroyed. No way they're going to get >> Okay, so there you have it. Celtic are our pick to win the William Hill Scottish Premiership and our today's final one standing. But what did you think of our predictions? Give us yours in the comments below and scan the QR Code on screen for your chance to win a share of the £25,000 jackpot in final one standing. Thanks again for watching the warm-up. If you enjoyed the
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