THEY say that the league table never lies but, with Hearts and Hibernian up there in the Premiership, it maybe looks a bit surprising right now.

It is still very early doors but it is unexpected to see Rangers sitting sixth and Celtic just a couple of points ahead of them in third. Come the turn of the year, it will be Rangers and Celtic that are occupying the top two places again.

They have got the strongest squads and Celtic, given their success over the last couple of years, will always fancy themselves to win the title, no matter their start.

Rangers are coming with a charge. With the supporters behind them, and with their home form improved, they look far better equipped to challenge.

It is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and interesting seasons that we have had here for a number of years and that can only be good for the game in Scotland.

Rangers are going to need a wee bit of luck when it comes to injuries but if they can keep clear of knocks and suspensions then there is no reason why they can’t mount a challenge for the league.

Celtic were very good at the weekend but they have been stop start and they are not getting the momentum from the European games like Rangers are.

Hearts and Hibernian have had very impressive starts overall and credit to them for that.

But the more the season goes on, the more you will see the Old Firm start to pull away.