Former Celtic boss and Liverpool legend John Barnes insists Rangers have dipped this season and Celtic can catch them in the race to the league title.
The Ibrox club won Premiership title last season at a walking pace, going unbeaten throughout the campaign and finishing 25 points clear of their city rivals.
So far this campaign Steven Gerrard's men have already beaten Celtic, and sit in top spot once again despite what some would consider a lukewarm start to the campaign.
Barnes has backed Ange Postecoglou to mount a title challenge, insisting the Australian can mastermind a fightback after the 10 In A Row disappointment last term.
Despite failing to win on the road so far this term, the former Parkhead boss insists his former side are not in "disarray" and remain serious contenders this term - pointing to the derby day turning point.
Barnes told BonusCodeBets : “Had Celtic won the Old Firm Derby; they would currently be top of the Scottish Premiership.
"They also lost in the Europa League but it’s not as doom as gloom as people are trying to make out. Rangers also drew on the weekend.
"Celtic are doing okay despite some people saying that they are in disarray, which they’re not.
"They lost a game which they’re allowed to. It’s only been six games in the league and they’re still getting used to the new manager, so they’ll be fine.
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"Celtic will push Rangers closer this season because Rangers have dropped their level a bit.
"After stopping Celtic making 10 In A Row, they’re not playing with the same determination and intensity that they were doing.
"Celtic have a new manager and new players have the added impetus of trying to get back to where they were.”
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