Can Anyone Outside the Old Firm Really Challenge for the Title?

This season marks a significant milestone in Scottish football as it has been 40 years since a non-Old Firm club last won the Scottish top-flight title. With both Celtic and Rangers facing challenges, there is a growing belief that this could be the year a team outside Glasgow rises to the occasion. The dynamics of the league have shifted, and with clubs like Hearts and Hibernian making strides, the traditional dominance of the Old Firm may be under threat.

Last updated: 17 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Non-Old Firm clubs like Hearts and Hibernian are showing potential to challenge for the title.
• Celtic and Rangers are experiencing inconsistent starts to the season, raising questions about their dominance.
• Hearts have invested in new talent and analytics to bolster their chances.
• Hibernian's squad continuity and recent form suggest they could be competitive.
• The financial disparity between Old Firm and other clubs remains significant.

The Current State of Scottish Football

In recent seasons, the Scottish Premiership has often felt like a two-horse race, with Celtic and Rangers consistently vying for the title. However, as we enter the 2023–24 season, a noticeable shift is occurring. Both Glasgow giants are grappling with internal issues that could present an opening for clubs outside of their sphere of influence.

Celtic's Stagnation

Despite Brendan Rodgers' Celtic recently being a penalty shootout away from securing a domestic treble, there is a palpable sense of stagnation among the fans and within the club. The supporters expressed their frustration during the transfer window, feeling that the club did not make the necessary moves to strengthen the squad. This dissatisfaction intensified following a lacklustre deadline day and a disappointing exit from the Champions League.

Furthermore, the recent Old Firm derby, which ended in a goalless draw, left fans disheartened. With only two shots on target from both teams, it highlighted the struggles both sides are currently facing.

Rangers' Troubles

Meanwhile, Rangers are also experiencing turmoil under new ownership. Head coach Russell Martin has not yet secured a league victory, leaving the club with only three wins from eleven matches. This lack of consistency marks their worst league start since 1983, further compounding the pressure on both clubs to perform this season.

Emerging Contenders: Hearts and Hibernian

With the Old Firm in disarray, clubs like Hearts and Hibernian are positioning themselves as viable challengers. Hearts, under the guidance of Tony Bloom, have embraced a data-driven approach to recruitment, utilising the Jamestown Analytics software that previously aided Union Saint-Gilloise in their title-winning campaign in Belgium.

Hearts' Ambitious Strategy

Under the new management of Derek McInnes, Hearts have brought in ten new players. McInnes' extensive experience in Scottish football, particularly his previous success with Aberdeen, adds a layer of tactical acumen that could prove crucial. Despite needing last-minute goals to secure points in their opening league matches, Hearts are currently level with Celtic on points, showcasing their potential.

Hibernian's Solid Foundations

Hibernian's performance also warrants attention. Finishing third last season, they have retained key players while enhancing their squad with new signings. The continuity within the squad has played a vital role in their recent form, where they have remarkably lost only three times in their last 28 league matches, suggesting they are capable of mounting a serious challenge this season.

The Financial Landscape of Scottish Football

Despite the ambition shown by clubs like Hearts and Hibernian, the financial gap between them and the Old Firm remains a significant hurdle. Celtic and Rangers accounted for approximately 86% of the total transfer fees spent in the Premiership this summer, highlighting the financial clout they possess. Even with recent investments, clubs like Hearts and Hibs would likely need to break their own transfer records to truly compete at the top level.

The Challenge Ahead

Closing the gap in points between the second and third positions is another daunting task. Historically, the average points difference between these positions over the last five seasons has been around 22 points. This statistic underscores the challenge non-Old Firm clubs face in not only finishing second but also in contending for the title.

What Lies Ahead for Scottish Football?

As the season progresses, it will be intriguing to observe how the dynamics of the league unfold. With both Celtic and Rangers faltering, the opportunity for clubs like Hearts and Hibernian to seize the moment is ripe. However, the question remains: can these clubs maintain their form throughout the season and challenge the Old Firm effectively?

Ultimately, while the current landscape suggests a potential shift in power, the historic dominance of Celtic and Rangers looms large. The path to dethroning these giants will require not only consistency but also a significant change in how Scottish football operates at a financial level.

FAQs

When was the last time a non-Old Firm club won the Scottish Premiership?

It has been 40 years since a non-Old Firm club, Aberdeen, won the Scottish top-flight title in the 1984–85 season.

What challenges do Hearts and Hibernian face in competing for the title?

The main challenges include the financial disparity with Celtic and Rangers, maintaining consistent performance throughout the season, and overcoming the historical dominance of the Old Firm.

How have Hearts improved their squad this season?

Hearts have recruited ten new players and implemented a data-driven recruitment model, along with appointing experienced head coach Derek McInnes, to strengthen their squad.

What is the current form of Hibernian?

Hibernian has shown solid form, losing only three times in their last 28 league matches and retaining key players while making strategic signings to enhance their midfield.

Can Celtic and Rangers recover from their poor starts?

While both clubs are currently struggling, their historical performance and resources suggest they could recover, but consistency will be key moving forward.