Robbie Neilson shows Hearts a 'huge benefit' in title race as Rangers and Celtic ref theories aimed at Jambos
The former Hearts boss has been talking over his ex-side’s position in the title race with Rangers and Celtic.
Robbie Neilson believes a trio of novice squads plays into Hearts’ hands in the title race - as a refereeing conspiracy theory turns attention to Gorgie.
The former Tynecastle boss and player - now an assistant coach in Belgium with Lommel - has been watching on with intrigue over this season’s Premiership glory hunt. His ex-side are first and four points clear of Rangers in second place, who host third-placed Celtic this weekend, with Hearts able to put more distance between at least one rival if they defeat Aberdeen on Saturday.
For the Jambos, Neilson does not see them as inferior when it comes to experience of winning a title. He does not think Rangers or Celtic shape up much better in that regard when he looks at those squads, something he feels bodes well for Hearts, in what will be a dramatic run-in until the end of this season.
Robbie Neilson on Hearts in Scottish Premiership title race
Neilson told the Scottish Football Podcast: "One of the big things about it is Rangers and Celtic would have seasoned winners within their team. Guys that know how to get over the line who have won six, seven, right championships within a career. Gone are those days.
“All three squads are pretty novice to doing it, which I think is a huge benefit to Hearts. The swing of goals for and goals against has been massive. When you look at Hearts, I think it's like per game it's almost a plus one when you look at the for and against goals. Celtic are almost minus 1.5. So it's like a huge swing. Hearts have got goals in their team and goals will win the championship."
Neilson was speaking after refereeing controversy engulfed Scottish football at the weekend. Aberdeen had complaints amid Liam Morrison’s red card and a disallowed Kevin Nisbet goal in clashing against Dundee while St Mirren’s appeal to see a Richard King sending off overturned after an alleged slap at Motherwell’s Callum Slattery was successful.
What referee theories do Rangers and Celtic fans hold?
Celtic had an appeal for Auston Trusty’s marching orders against Hibs waved away and debate has sprung over whether Livingston should have had a second red card for Cammy Kerr’s challenge on Rangers’ Mikey Moore. That had Neilson in a teasing mood.
He insisted previous jokes on Rangers and Celtic minded referees have now come with some maroon tints. Following a weekend of controversy, Neilson aired a joke on the podcast, adding: "You know what has really amazed me in the last six months?
“Previously Celtic fans thought all referees were Rangers fans, and Rangers fans thought all referees were Celtic fans. But now, Rangers and Celtic think all referees are Hearts fans. It's amazing how it has changed in the last few months.”