Glenn Middleton has issued a defiant warning ahead of Saturday’s lunchtime clash at Tannadice, making it clear that Dundee United won’t be part of any Celtic coronation as they chase European football of their own.
Brendan Rodgers’ men arrive in the City of Discovery knowing that even a single point would be enough to clinch their fourth successive Premiership title. With roughly 4,000 Celtic fans set to travel north in anticipation of a championship party, the stage is seemingly set. But Middleton, once of Rangers, is determined to spoil the script.
“Yes. Definitely,” he told RecordSport when asked if Dundee United were motivated to crash the celebration. “It is shaping up to be a brilliant game in terms of what they are fighting for. We are fighting for something as well—to finish in those European spots.”
It’s been a season of resurgence under Jim Goodwin, and the Tangerines are now pushing hard to return to continental competition. That drive, Middleton insists, will fuel the squad this weekend just as much as Celtic’s title ambitions.
“There will be no case of us not going for that on Saturday,” he said. “A party atmosphere? Definitely. Our fans will be doing the exact same because they’ve got a team that have everything still to play for this season.”
Celtic have looked imperious through much of the campaign, bouncing back from a recent hiccup against St Johnstone to stay firmly on course. With Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate, and Daizen Maeda setting the tone, the Bhoys have showcased both depth and drive.
Middleton, however, isn’t fazed. “Everyone knows the quality and the strength in depth Celtic have in their squad and how good they are when they are on their game,” he admitted. “But the manager has always had us in a mind frame and a game plan to go into games and give as good an account as possible—and Saturday will be no different.”
With Dundee United still battling to secure a return to European football, and Celtic eyeing the champagne moment, Saturday’s showdown is poised to deliver tension, intensity, and potential fireworks.
One side wants to seal glory. The other wants to steal it.
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