Boyd highlights Old Firm significance
Former Rangers striker and Sky Sports pundit Kris Boyd has weighed in on Celtic's opening Scottish Premiership fixtures, insisting that the first Old Firm derby of the season will be crucial in shaping the title race.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Boyd stressed the importance of a strong start for the defending champions, but pinpointed the meeting with their Glasgow rivals as the pivotal moment.
"The first Old Firm is always key," Boyd said. "Whoever wins that game gets a huge psychological advantage. For Celtic, they'll want to lay down a marker early doors."
Celtic's fixture list under the microscope
Celtic kick off their campaign with a home match against Kilmarnock, followed by a trip to face newly-promoted Dundee United. Before the first derby, they also face St Mirren and Motherwell.
The Scottish Premiership champions, led by manager Derek McInnes, will be aiming to maintain their domestic dominance, but Boyd warned that the early fixtures could be tricky.
"They need to start well. There's no easy games in this league, and if you slip up early, the pressure builds. Celtic are expected to win every game, so the first Old Firm becomes even bigger if they've already dropped points."
McInnes under pressure to deliver
Derek McInnes, who succeeded Brendan Rodgers earlier this year, faces the daunting task of delivering trophies while managing a squad in transition. Boyd, who played under McInnes at Kilmarnock, believes the manager's experience will be vital.
"Derek knows the Scottish game inside out. He'll have them well-prepared, but the Old Firm is a different beast. He'll need his big players to stand up."
Celtic's recruitment in the summer transfer window will also be key, with Boyd suggesting that the club must add quality to compete on multiple fronts.
Key Takeaways
- Kris Boyd believes the first Old Firm match of the season is always pivotal in the title race.
- Celtic begin their Scottish Premiership defence with a home game against Kilmarnock.
- Manager Derek McInnes must navigate a tricky early fixture list to build momentum.
- The psychological edge of winning the first derby could define the campaign.
Quick Facts
First Old Firm derby: TBC (fixture date to be confirmed)
Celtic's opening match: vs Kilmarnock (H)
Manager: Derek McInnes
Sky Sports pundit: Kris Boyd