Celtic boss Martin O'Neill praised Hearts’ consistency, saying the club is now poised to become a regular title‑contender in the Scottish Premiership. He singled out their ability to stay in the hunt as “great credit” and dismissed the upcoming Celtic‑Rangers clash as anything more than a typical league fixture, as they chase a place in next season's Champions League spots.

With Rangers sitting seven points behind league leaders Hearts and four points off defending champions Celtic, O'Neill noted the gap makes a title showdown unrealistic. He pointed to Hearts’ superior goal difference as a decisive edge, especially with only three games remaining. A draw between Hearts and Rangers would have handed the race to Celtic, but mathematically the situation now favours the Edinburgh side.

O'Neill admitted a draw would be “very, very difficult to cheer on,” yet acknowledged Hearts remain in contention and that Celtic still have a chance if the final match at Celtic Park goes their way. The manager’s comments underscore how the season’s closing weeks could reshape the top‑three hierarchy, leaving fans eager for the decisive fixtures.