Kris Commons does not feel that there is pressure on Celtic as they contemplate winning the SPL title for the first time in three years. The Parkhead site are just one point behind rivals Rangers at the top of the table after last week's goalless draw at Ibrox. However, they do hold the advantage of having a game in hand. Commons insists that result in Govan put Celtic in an "ideal" position ahead of Sunday's home game against Dundee United - but is not unduly nervous about the prospect of winning his first championship medal.
He said: "It's perfectly accurate to say the championship will now come down to who has got the nerve to stay strong in the last days of the season. But I can honestly say I feel no pressure at all. I get up every morning looking forward to what's ahead of us, starting with Dundee United at Celtic Park on Sunday. I'm revelling in what's going on because I'm not used to challenging for titles. It's possible this title race could go to the very last day, but I want us to focus on Sunday more than anything else. We've got five games to go and we need to be in a good place. The boys look confident in training and in competitive matches, and we're keeping clean sheets. It's important we stay on the ball in terms of our mentality and get the job done."
Commons hopes he is selected to start the game against Dundee United after being left on the bench at the start of the game against Rangers. However, the former Derby player has no problem with manager Neil Lennon's decision. The midfielder said: "The gaffer told me I was a substitute when we arrived at Ibrox. I was disappointed, but I knew why he did it. He is the manager, he gets paid to make those calls. He is making calls to get the points required to win the championship so for me, it's about the team and not about myself. I'm not doing all I can for Celtic to be recognised or see my name in the papers. No-one is safe in this team and I don't think anyone should be at a club like Celtic. Uncertainty over team selection is healthy because it keeps you on your toes and makes you work harder. There was a time in my career when I was an automatic first pick and took it for granted that I'd be playing every week. Now I'm working hard in training every day to make the manager believe I should be playing. All I'm concentrating on is getting into the starting eleven on Sunday and making a contribution. The league title is in our hands now and that's the way we wanted it before the game against Rangers."