Ian Murray believes the Edinburgh clubs will mount a bigger title challenge to Rangers than rivals Celtic this season but still expects Hibs and Hearts to fall short.
Steven Gerrard’s side saw off the Hibees at Ibrox on Sunday and now face another top of the table clash against the Jambos after the international break.
The capital clubs have started the season strongly and Murray - who had two spells at Easter Road and spent two years at Ibrox - reckons they have the chance to finish above Celtic.
That is what happened in his first season at Rangers in 2005/06 when Hearts pipped them to runners-up spot by a point to secure a Champions League place.
If the same happened again it would be a huge blow to the Hoops but Murray says there is a chance during the Parkhead club’s transition under Ange Postecoglou.
Former Scotland international Murray spoke on number of Ibrox issues in an exclusive interview on this week’s Record Rangers podcast.
And asked if Hibs or Hearts could win the league the 40-year-old, now boss of Airdrie, said: “It’s a tough question.
“For Hibs and Hearts to compete, it’s really difficult because of budgets. What I do think is both sides could finish above Celtic.
“That’s not to be disrespectful to Celtic in any way because I actually think they will come good in the end over the next 18 months.
“It would be great if the Edinburgh clubs could go challenge [for the title] but I just think they drop too many silly points.
“In my opinion, Rangers have the best players, the best squad and they will produce more consistently than Hibs and Hearts will.
“Both teams have started really well. But when you look at Hibs’ bench, for example, you have to ask, ‘Is that strong enough to go challenge for the Premiership?’
“In my opinion it’s not. I’m sure Jack would have liked a better transfer window. I look at Hearts bench and say it’s slightly stronger but when it comes right down to the crunch I think Rangers have the best squad.”
