CHRIS SUTTON believes Brendan Rodgers is on course to emulate his old Celtic boss Martin O’Neill.
The current Republic of Ireland international manager last led the Hoops to a domestic clean sweep 15 years ago.
And Sutton, who played in the victorious 2001 team, is backing Rodgers’s line-up to beat Alloa at Parkhead tonight to keep on course for the League Cup.
The former striker said: “I believe there is a real possibility. That’s why this game is deadly serious, he can’t afford to rotate big style and give people a game.
“I don’t think that’s his style and that’s a similarity with Martin O’Neill. There is a time to do that, but surely not in your first season. He’ll go out trying to put this game to bed in the first 20 minutes then maybe relax.
“This competition is a serious competition. I like the format because it’s different, it had the group stages, now it’s getting to the nitty gritty. It’s the first trophy of the season and it’s absolutely crucial.
“This is supposed to be Celtic’s 100th major trophy, it’s a big deal. If Brendan doesn’t win the first trophy, the pressure builds.
“I think Celtic are head and shoulders above in the league and over the course it will be comfortable.
“Historically, it’s not an easy thing to win and he will go strong. It’s not a competition he can afford to take lightly, especially this week more than any. I don’t think there will be many changes.
“Whatever you say about Alloa, they knocked out Inverness Caley Thistle and won every game in the group stage.
“Of course there is the Champions League next week but Brendan has shown that he’ll deal with each game in isolation. I think that’s the right way to go about things.”
Meanwhile CQN’s latest book That Season in Paradise – Ten Months of Celtic Heaven tells the story of our season 50 years ago when we won the domestic treble and the Glasgow Cup and of course became Champions of Europe.
This wonderful book kicks every ball during that unique season – you won’t want to miss it. Available now from www.cqnbookstore.com
