The Scottish Premiership title race is heating up, and Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is keeping his cool ahead of a crucial trip to Easter Road. With his team trailing league leaders Hearts by three points, a win against Hibernian on Sunday could level the playing field—especially with Rangers set to visit Tynecastle on Monday.

O'Neill acknowledged the unique dynamics at play this weekend, noting that some Hibs fans might not want their Edinburgh rivals Hearts to lift the trophy. "I can understand that," he said, "but that won't cross over to our team selection or the coaching staff. If anything, I think they'd be more invigorated by the news. If I could call upon some Hibs fans to refrain from that, it would help."

The Celtic boss even drew a parallel closer to home, adding, "I'm sure some Celtic fans might not want our closest rivals to win the league either. So, I don't know."

O'Neill's side did their part last weekend, beating Falkirk at home to put pressure on the top two. Meanwhile, Rangers slipped to third after a loss to Motherwell, and Hearts edged out Hibs at Easter Road. "It's only an advantage if you win," O'Neill reflected. "We were able to overcome Falkirk, which was great. There's a sense that you've done that job for the weekend, and then you just sit back. Mostly, we've been the one playing afterwards and trying to catch up."

When asked if he'd be glued to Monday's Hearts vs. Rangers clash, O'Neill didn't hold back. "I'll be there, don't you worry. If you're asking who I'll be cheering on, I've no idea. But of course, I'll be watching—we have to play those teams."

As the season enters its decisive stretch, every match feels like a title decider. For the fans, the drama is electric. For the players, it's about staying focused on the pitch—no matter who they're rooting for off it.