Joe Miller reckons Aberdeen have what it takes to split up the Old Firm and claim second place in the Premiership but expects Celtic to run away with the league this season.
The division’s top two ranked sides – who have both collected maximum points from their first seven matches – face off at Celtic Park on Saturday. An electric start from the champions has seen them open up a five point gap over city rivals Rangers, while new Pittodrie boss Jimmy Thelin has quickly hit the ground running and his Dons team only trail the Hoops by virtue of goal difference.
Aberdeen haven’t finished second in the table since pipping Rangers to the runners’ up spot in back-to-back seasons in 2017 and 2018, but former Reds ace Miller – who lifted two trophies in his two spells in the Granite City either side of a six-year stint with Celtic – believes they can achieve the feat come May.
Speaking to PLZ Soccer, he said: “I think they can. I don’t see anything other than Celtic winning the league to be honest with you. They are a juggernaut and if they get the better of Aberdeen at the weekend then I think they will go on and win the league at a canter. But they (Aberdeen) can split the top two sides in Glasgow.
The Dons haven’t emerged victorious at Celtic Park since Andy Considine netted the only goal on the final day of the 2017/18 season that ensured a second place finish in the Premiership during Brendan Rodgers’ first spell in Glasgow’s east end. But Miller reckons Swede Thelin does have players at his disposal who can cause the champions some problems on Saturday.
“It will be an interesting game as they are going into the lion’s den so to speak”, he added. “They are two teams that try to attack and are also (good) at closing down and trying not to allow teams to play their football.
“It is a big test for them as Celtic play with a lot of pace, use the width of the park, spread the ball and they create chances. If they can can stop Celtic having that easy possession it will be a tough game.
“They have been playing well and have players in the squad who have been called-up to international level. Getting those call ups has made everyone take notice and they are getting goals from all over the park which is interesting. It’s going to be a tough game for both sides.
“Celtic are the team to catch and the goal difference is phenomenal. But Aberdeen fans will be pleased with the way they have started because it’s been a long time since they have been (joint) top of the league and unbeaten. It’s an exciting time for the Aberdeen fans at the moment, and if they can maintain that, who knows what can happen.”