St Johnstone manager Steve Lomas insists Celtic deserve to be crowned Scottish champions regardless of a recent slump in results.
Rangers' 2-1 win over Motherwell on Saturday means the Hoops will have to wait at least until next week to clinch the Clydesdale Bank Premier League title, denying them a possible championship party against Saints on Sunday.
Neil Lennon's men saw an impressive undefeated run come to an end when they lost the Scottish Communities League Cup final to Kilmarnock, before suffering defeat in last week's Old Firm derby.
But, as far as Lomas is concerned, Celtic will be worthy winners when they do clinch the championship.
He said: "I think they are the best team and the most consistent and that's not a bad combination.
"Certainly, in my eyes, they are worthy champions.
"Nothing will take away from that just because they have had a couple of defeats.
"You are going to have them no matter who you are.
"Even the greatest teams in the world, like Man United, have little blips. Barcelona didn't score the other night, which is amazing.
"Celtic are a fantastic club and a fantastic team and we're going to have to be at our best to get something from the game."
