Roy Aitken, the former Celtic captain, is backing the club to finish the season in style. With a fifth consecutive Premiership title in their sights, Aitken believes the team is hitting top form at just the right moment.

Drawing on memories from 1986, when he captained Celtic to a dramatic final-day victory over Hearts on goal difference, Aitken sees parallels with the current campaign. "That year we won eight games in a row," he recalled on BBC Radio Scotland. "It was only two points for a win back then. Now, Celtic have closed the gap on Hearts in recent weeks, and they have real momentum."

Celtic are currently one point behind Hearts ahead of tonight's crucial match at Motherwell. A win would set up a thrilling final-day showdown with the league leaders, who host Falkirk. Hearts stumbled last weekend, drawing 1-1 with Motherwell, while Celtic extended their winning streak to six games with a derby victory over Rangers.

For manager Martin O'Neill, this title chase could be especially rewarding. Aitken, a veteran of many battles, praised O'Neill's experience and tactical nous. "Martin would have this triumph up there with his past successes," said Aitken. "Celtic went through some turmoil this season, and if Martin had stayed on during Wilfried Nancy's tenure, things might have been different. But he's a wily old fox—he's been there and done it before. He knows exactly what's required to win."

At a time when many wrote off Celtic's chances, Aitken sees a team that has proven its resilience. "Celtic were given no chance this season, but now they're in the mix. It's a fantastic achievement," he added. For fans and players alike, the stage is set for a gripping finish to the campaign.