Neil McCann reacts to Celtic’s underwhelming performances

Neil McCann has delivered a measured but honest verdict on Celtic’s recent displays ahead of a significant Premiership encounter.

Celtic’s early Sunday visit to Rugby Park has all the ingredients of a decisive afternoon in the title race. With Rangers and Heart of Midlothian set to meet later in the weekend, the Hoops have a real opportunity to alter the complexion of the championship battle. They sit a single point behind Rangers and six adrift of Hearts, while holding a game in hand on both rivals. Victory in Ayrshire would significantly strengthen their position.

Blocking their path is Kilmarnock’s recently appointed manager, Neil McCann.

The former Ibrox winger, who also spent a spell at the Glasgow club last season as part of an interim coaching setup under Barry Ferguson, is fully aware of the magnitude of the assignment. He also recognises the wider implications a Kilmarnock triumph could have for his previous allegiances in both Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Previewing the contest, McCann spoke openly about the scale of the challenge awaiting his side and shared his perspective on Celtic’s current level.

He acknowledged that matches do not come much tougher than facing Celtic, particularly given their habit of grinding out results. While he conceded that performances may not have consistently reached a dazzling standard, he stressed that they continue to accumulate victories. In his view, that ability makes them especially dangerous opponents. He emphasised that, regardless of aesthetic debates surrounding their form, they possess a winning mentality that keeps them firmly competitive. For Kilmarnock, he underlined, it represents a massive test.

14th January 2026; Falkirk Stadium, Falkirk, Scotland; Scottish Premiership Football, Falkirk versus Celtic; Celtic interim manager Martin ONeill

His comments carry weight.

Celtic’s campaign has rarely flowed with the attacking sharpness their supporters expect. Extended spells of free-flowing football have been scarce, with flashes of quality appearing intermittently rather than sustained dominance. Even so, points have steadily been added to the tally. Under interim manager Martin O’Neill, the team have rediscovered a degree of resolve, managing to secure wins in matches where rhythm, tempo, and cohesion were not always evident.

That capacity to persevere has ensured they remain firmly in contention.

The scenario on Sunday is laden with pressure and possibility. Celtic will take to the field first, fully aware that events later at Ibrox could reshape the standings. By the end of the day, either Rangers or Hearts — potentially both — are guaranteed to surrender points. The opportunity to capitalise exists, but only if Celtic handle their own business.

Yet trips to Rugby Park seldom unfold without complications.

Kilmarnock are likely to be disciplined and tactically structured. McCann, eager to make an impression in his new role, will demand intensity and commitment from his players. Given his background with Rangers, an added storyline surrounds his attempt to hinder Celtic’s surge. Emotional undertones are unavoidable, but practical execution will matter more.

From Celtic’s perspective, sentiment is irrelevant. The objective is straightforward: claim all three points. Supporters making the journey will expect a professional, controlled performance that eliminates unnecessary drama. In a title race where margins are slender, any lapse could prove costly.

Momentum can shift rapidly over the course of a single afternoon. Should Celtic prevail, they would place considerable strain on their rivals before a ball is even kicked in the later fixture. Conversely, any stumble would squander a prime opportunity to intensify the contest at the summit.

McCann’s appraisal captures the essence of Celtic’s season so far: not always sparkling, occasionally workmanlike, but persistently effective. Winning without brilliance is often the hallmark of sides capable of enduring the long grind of a campaign.

As the teams prepare to meet in Ayrshire, the stakes are unmistakable. Kilmarnock aim to protect home turf and influence the broader narrative. Celtic seek to maintain momentum and tighten the vice at the top.

Within a matter of hours, the championship outlook could appear markedly different. Celtic’s task is clear — ensure they are the side applying the pressure rather than absorbing it.