Craig Moore and Mark Wilson share the view that Ange Postecoglou has hit the ground running at Celtic.
But both feel the title is just out of their reach this season with Rangers looking strong in their defence of the Premiership.
Moore knows Postecoglou from his time in the Australia set-up and would love to see his "old mate" get his hands on the trophy.
However he thinks it's his old team Rangers who are on track for the title.
He joked on Sky Sports: "I’m confident my old mate Ange Postecoglou will come second.
"He's been a breath of fresh air for Celtic. I think he's done a fantastic job.
"He's turned them round a lot quicker than I think people could have imagined and there certainly will be a title race this season.
"You see, even with the late winner with 10 men against Ross County, I think that shows that there will be a title race this season.
"I just feel that Rangers have probably got the deeper squad though and I feel that will be enough to enable Rangers to go on and win the title again this season."
"He’s turned them around a lot quicker than many would have expected. But I still feel Rangers will win the title."
Former Parkhead defender Wilson also begrudgingly admits Rangers are the favourites - but only just.
And that didn't curb his optimism as he admitted he's been blown away by how quickly Postecoglou has turned things around.
He said: "Rangers are always going to be the favourites at this point, defending champions coming off the back of what they did last season.
"There was the speedbump with the change of manager and you never know how that's going to affect you.
"But Van Bronckhorst has come into the club and seems to have made them a better side.
"They look fresher and have found a great run of form.
"Rangers are still have the favourites, but Ange Postecoglou will look for additions in January. There's no doubt it will be much tighter this year.
"I think everyone's surprised at how quickly Postecoglou has settled in six months.
"He has a style of play, he's brought players to the club the fans love, and he's got a cup final to look forward to."
