Jeff Stelling defends Hearts as journalist shares Celtic title claim ahead of Old Firm

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Hearts’ draw has left them four points clear of second-placed Celtic ahead of Sunday’s Old Firm derby, with victory for the Bhoys in that clash potentially piling the pressure on the leaders. VISIT THE CELTIC MATCH HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Jeff Stelling points out title race is still in Hearts’ handsHearts have been masters of the comeback in recent weeks, as they had won three consecutive games through second-half turnarounds before Saturday’s draw with Motherwell.

McInnes’ men were unable to replicate that feat again at Fir Park, and it has left Martin O’Neill’s Celtic breathing down their neck heading into the final two games. MotherwellStatsHearts46%Possession54%0.45xG1.091Shots on Target5–Big Chances313Touches in Opposition Box272Corners6The final stats from Hearts’ draw with Motherwell.The Bhoys face an away game in their next outing at Motherwell, and they could be just one point behind Hearts at that stage if they claim victory over Rangers on Sunday.

Journalist Callum McFadden took to X after Hearts’ draw on Sunday to point out that the title is “in Celtic’s hands” heading into their final three games, due to their clash with Hearts on the final day. It’s not in Celtics hands any more than Hearts hands !!— Jeff Stelling (@JeffStelling) May 9, 2026 View Tweet However, Stelling quickly jumped to the defence of Hearts as he replied to point out that the title race was also still in their grasp, as he wrote: “It’s not in Celtic’s hands any more than Hearts’ hands!”Celtic hierarchy’s Green Brigade decision could prove vitalFormer Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness told Football Insider earlier this week that Celtic are right to have locked Rangers’ ultras group The Union Bears out on Sunday’s derby.