I thought that on the evidence of last weekend that Rangers have improved since last season – but their problem is that so have Celtic.

The scoreline was only 2-0 but it was a pretty comprehensive victory.

And while much was made of Scott Brown and Pedro Caixinha clashing on the touchline at the interval, all I can say is that there is not a team in the country who would not welcome Brown with open arms.

The guy is integral to all that Celtic do. His leadership qualities and the galvanising effect that he has on those around them have been crucial to Celtic and this season he has been the most important player for the Parkhead side.

It is a blow for Scotland that he will miss the crunch double header that is looming next week but there is no doubt about the influence he exerts.

I know in my time I clashed with a few of the Rangers players during games but I don’t think I ever quite lost my cool like that in a game when I was manager.

In any case, from Celtic’s point of view all you can say is that they have not stood still – on or off the park.

On it they have got even better than they were last season. I actually believe that it is conceivable that they could go through the domestic campaign unbeaten again. It is just difficult to see who can stop them.

You always have the suspicion that it could be at Tynecastle or Pittodrie or even Fir Park given that anything can happen in a one-off game but what is striking about the current Celtic team is the hunger in it.

Regardless of the changes made, there seems to be no dilution of the way that they play or the way in which they are capable of getting a result.

They have been sensible with the players who have come into the club during the transfer window and I honestly think they are playing even better than they were this time last year.

Off it, I think you have to say that this is a club who are exemplary in their management. The news that they have been given the go-ahead to go on with their plans for a hotel is excellent news and also contributes to the revitalisation of the area.

I can recall my own playing and management days at Celtic Park and the difference to the stadium and the façade of the area is extraordinary. The board have to be congratulated for having the foresight to take the club to another level off the park as well as on it.