Roy Keane delivered a brutal reality check to Hearts while praising Celtic’s title-winning mentality, insisting “the best team always wins the league” after Martin O’Neill’s side got over the line.
The former Manchester United captain believes Celtic deserved enormous credit for surviving a difficult campaign and finding consistency when it mattered most.
And unlike most of the narrative that’s been going around all season, Keane sends Hearts a title message that will sting Derek McInnes.
Share us your message to Martin O’Neill, as Celtic down Hearts on the final day…
Roy Keane praises Martin O’Neill and Celtic resilience
Speaking about Celtic’s title win, Keane said: “Credit to Celtic then. Hearts were brilliant. Celtic hung in there. The ups and downs, change of managers, Martin going in and Martin showed why he’s a top manager managing upwards.
“Martin would have been delighted to get them over the line. Yeah, Martin’s done a brilliant job. Then to be fair, he’s obviously staff and the players again, the top players found a way to win.
“Yeah, it wasn’t pretty in the game. I think they’ve won the last seven league games. You got to give them credit.”
Keane’s comments summed up exactly why this title felt significant for Celtic. They were not flawless, but they handled pressure better than everyone else.
Roy Keane sends brutal Hearts message with title verdict
Keane’s strongest point came right at the end of his assessment.
“But listen, the table doesn’t lie. Best team always wins the league and the three worst teams get relegated. That’ll never change.”
That is the part Hearts supporters will not enjoy hearing, because it removes excuses from the conversation entirely.
Celtic may not have dominated every week, but title races are decided by consistency, mentality and finding results under pressure. Keane made it clear Celtic did exactly that.
The seven straight league wins he referenced proved decisive. Celtic found a way through difficult moments and ultimately that is why they finished where champions belong.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
