Craig Moore admits second spot is the very minimum that will be accepted from the Celtic board this season.
Ange Postecoglou has endured a tough start to life in the Scottish Premiership as the Parkhead outfit languish in sixth spot in the table.
So far for champions Rangers the challenge for top spot has came from Edinburgh, with Hearts unbeaten so far and Hibs impressing under Jack Ross.
However, with the likes of Motherwell and Dundee United also getting off to a positive start Moore reckons they could drop as low as fifth - which "won't be accepted" by punters.
The former Ibrox defender, who has been a long-term backed of his fellow countryman, told the Go Radio Football Show: "I'm not saying he's been a slow burner but he's had slow starts at Brisbane and in Japan.
"He won the league both times in his second season.
"There's a trend and there's been a big turnaround.
"Everything you think you know about Celtic and Rangers, you have no idea until you actually live in it.
"It's probably been tough as there's been that many things going on that I'm not privy to.
"The patience is there as long as it's not a blowout. But they've got to finish second.
"Hearts, Hibs, Motherwell and Dundee United have all started well.
"They're in sixth position even after beating Aberdeen. I think the patience will be there but it's based on showing signs of improvement.
"Third, fourth, fifth - that won't be accepted. "
