After a tense season last year, which was only decided with one game to go, the competitive fixtures for 2022/23 are almost upon us.

Celtic clinched the title at Tannadice last time out to wash away some of the disappointment in missing out on 10-in-a-row.

It was a tremendous achievement for Ange Postecoglou, as he also picked up the League Cup as part of a double-winning maiden season.

He will be looking to retain the championship and more as he goes into season two in charge of the club.

Several pundits have given their thoughts on why they feel the Hoops are best placed to make it back to back Scottish Premiership title victories.

This includes the Bhoys legend Sir Kenny Dalglish, who thinks Celtic's transfer recruitment, compared to their Glasgow rivals', will play a vital role in making it 2-in-a-row.

 "Giovanni will be looking at the situation over at Celtic, and seeing that Ange has improved his squad," he wrote in The Sunday Post.

"They have been active in the transfer market and in the past few days have added Aaron Mooy and Moritz Jenz. 

"Added to the squad which won back the Premiership last season, for me it makes Celtic the team to beat this season. Sure, the transfer window is open for another six weeks or so, and Rangers might yet do more business. But the Parkhead club look very strong.

Celtic Way:

"Right now, they are favourites for the Premiership, Rangers will really need to produce something special to stop them. But league titles are never won on paper, it's what you do out on the park."

Dalglish's thoughts are echoed by another Hoops legend, Mark McGhee.

The former, Dundee, Aberdeen and Motherwell manager is of the opinion that the guaranteed Champions League football that the Parkhead side have means it is unlikely their business in the transfer window is not finished and this puts them in a strong position.

He told The Sunday Post: "Like Rangers, Celtic have had a few comings and goings this summer, leaving each with plenty of different permutations to chew over.

"With both clubs, it is going to be fascinating to see exactly what impact all the new faces make. With Champions League football coming up, I wouldn't be surprised if Celtic add more to their options."

The actions the Parkhead side have been taking in the transfer window and the potential opportunity of more players coming in once again dominates the debate, as former Celt Andy Walker also feels it could be a factor in the outcome of the title race.

Speaking to The Mail on Sunday, he said: "You always have to wait until the end of the window when players may suddenly leave or arrive. In terms of their title defence, Celtic did well to get their transfer business done early.

"Ange Postecoglou has some decent options. Bringing the title back to Celtic so quickly has really enhanced his reputation. The football was something to really enjoy, a good pace to the game and high intensity."