‘Only free-flowing Celtic can be title favourites’

Ex-Celtic midfielder Scott Allan believes his former side “can only be favourites” to retain the 2024-25 Scottish Premiership title.

Despite being yet to sign an outfield player this transfer window, Allan has been impressed with the pre-season performances of Brendan Rodgers’ side.

While Allan feels city rivals Rangers have become weaker and “not looked fluent at all” throughout the summer, the former Hibs and Dundee man believes Celtic are clicking into gear.

During their tour of the United States, Rodgers’ men put four goals past DC United, Manchester City and Chelsea in a trio of friendly wins.

The reigning Premiership champions, who are bidding to win a fourth straight title this season, kick off their competitive campaign with the visit of Kilmarnock on Sunday.

“I definitely think Celtic are the team to beat,” Allan told the BBC’s Scottish Football Podcast.

“I think Rangers as a squad are in a worse place now than they were at the end of last season, while Celtic seem to be motoring and will look to add as well.

“You look at their squad harmony and their play in the pre-season games against top clubs. You can look at they games how you want to, but they are free-flowing and scoring goals.”