Georgios Samaras claims Celtic are a better team than Rangers - and insists the Ibrox side will be undeserving champions if they clinch the title against Dundee United on Sunday.

Celtic have relinquished an eight-point advantage to leave Rangers within one win of wrenching the title back from Parkhead. The Light Blues are two points clear at the top of the SPL and victory in their final game of the campaign at Tannadice - regardless of how Celtic get on against Hearts at Parkhead - would make Walter Smith's side champions.

However, Celtic striker Samaras does not buy in to the traditional belief the best team always win the league. "Like last year, they were seven points clear and we won the title and I said that we were the better team," he said, "Now it's the opposite. But if they are going to win it, I don't think they deserve it.

"I think we are a better team than them.

"If they are going to win it then fair play - but it's our mistakes (that let them) and I think we are a better team than Rangers."

The Greece international's provocative remarks are sure to enrage Rangers fans, notwithstanding their obvious motivational potential, which will be pounced upon by the Ibrox management.

However, former Manchester City player Samaras was in no mood to give the Govan club even the satisfaction of believing he will be looking for the Tannadice result during Celtic's match against Hearts.

"I really don't care what they do," he said.

"I am only thinking about our game, trying to play good football and get the three points.

"We will see in the end if we are going to win the title or not."