FORMER Motherwell boss Stuart McCall last night agreed with John Collins’ view on the quality of Celtic’s Scottish opponents.
The Hoops assistant gaffer admitted other clubs’ players are not quick or clever enough to hurt his team.
And raging Aberdeen gaffer Derek McInnes accused Collins of showing Scottish football a lack of respect.
But McCall stepped in to voice his opinion and side with his former playing adversary.
He said: “At home, Celtic won’t be playing against the quality of European strikers.
“And most teams who face Celtic will use only one striker and Virgil van Dijk and Dedryck Boyata won’t get worked.
“It might be a little bit different away from home, but, in the main, John Collins is only being honest.”
McCall also believes the Parkhead side will be successful as they chase five-in-a-row championships.
The Scotland assistant said: “For the league’s sake, I would like to think Aberdeen will push Celtic all the way and I think they will be comfortable in second place.
“Derek McInnes has done a fantastic job at Pittodrie. He has not just added to the squad with good signings, but he has managed to keep players such as Ryan Jack, Jonny Hayes and Niall McGinn.
“However, they will have to beat Celtic if they if they really want to push them.
“Obviously, that didn’t happen last season where they lost all four league games against Ronny Deila’s team.
“Whether or not they can push Celtic all the way, I have to say I’m not sure.”
