Derek McInnes: Hearts Confront ‘Toughest Test’ Against Celtic

Derek McInnes, the manager of Kilmarnock, is preparing for a challenging match against Celtic. This encounter is viewed as one of the toughest tests his team has faced this season. McInnes has significant experience playing against Celtic, having faced them multiple times during his tenure at Aberdeen.

Derek McInnes Prepares for Tough Clash

In the current season, McInnes led Kilmarnock to victories over Celtic, including a notable win in the Premier Sports Cup. He recognizes the high level of performance required to compete against such a formidable opponent.

The Challenge of Playing Celtic

“When you play Celtic, you’ve got to be on point,” McInnes stated. “They are filled with top players and have made substantial investments in their squad.” His respect for Brendan Rodgers, Celtic’s manager, is evident, as he considers him a highly effective coach.

• Celtic boasts a strong squad with a significant financial commitment.
• McInnes aims to make his team the toughest opponent possible.

Looking Ahead to the Match

McInnes emphasized the importance of their performance, stating, “I believe we have what it takes to win this game.” He also mentioned the potential reward of gaining an eight-point lead at the top of the table, highlighting the importance of confidence at this early stage of the season.

“If we can win, it will be brilliant for our confidence and belief,” he noted. However, he remains realistic about the season’s beginning, acknowledging they are only a few games in.

Striving for Competitiveness

McInnes understands the desire among fans for competition against the dominant Old Firm teams. Many supporters hope for a challenging environment where teams like Kilmarnock can disrupt the established order. “There are people who would love to see us succeed, and some who wish to see us fail,” he said, reflecting on the broader context of Scottish football.

Overall, as the match approaches, McInnes and his team are focused on delivering a robust performance against Celtic, knowing it could set the tone for their season.