The new season is upon us and we’re all the better for it.
Last term there was a dramatic race for the most part, finished third at a canter and there was Euro spots for Kilmarnock and St Mirren while Hibs and Aberdeen toiled. It was misery for Livingston in the top tier as they dropped to the delight for Ross County as they once again survived the relegation playoffs.
won promotion while Raith Rovers put up a helluva fight to go up with them only to lose out to the Staggies over two legs. Down the leagues there were shock moments, big winners and of course the cup competitions also brought their own sense of intrigue.
Let’s cut to the chase. have the best squad, best manager and biggest budget in Scottish football. Brendan Rodgers only knows success at Parkhead and after missing out on a Treble last season, the Northern Irishman will be determined to complete a third clean sweep in Glasgow.
It’s what the green-and-white faithful will demand as go through another season of transition, with Philippe Clement ruthlessly clearing out a group of players who have been associated with failure for far too long.
Although nine new faces have arrived in Govan, it’s fair to say the Belgian has had his hands tied behind in the transfer market so far. It’s a monumental season for Gers as their bitter rivals have the chance to overtake their famed trophy haul and equal the cherished record of 55 top-flight titles. Clement doesn’t have a magic wand, though, and more time and patience will be required at Ibrox for an overhaul which could take two or three windows to get right.
As for best of the rest, Hearts have added real quality over the summer but I fear their European commitments could derail their league form. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Derek McInnes achieve something special at Kilmarnock.
At the bottom end of the table, St Johnstone face another battle for survival having narrowly escaped the drop zone last season. Ross County have lost top scorer Simon Murray but I think they’ll finish above the Saints and newly-promoted Dundee United, who could be dragged into the play-offs.
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