Chris Sutton has been branded 'pathetic' for his supposed U-turn in his criticism of Celtic.

The former Hoops striker insists his old side have been well below par this season after throwing away a seven-point lead over Rangers at the top of the Premiership.

Philippe Clement's side now boasts a two-point advantage at the summit after the champions dropped more domestic points at home to Kilmarnock on Saturday.

That result has sparked some hefty criticism from the stands and various pundits of Celtic's performances, particularly since the winter break - and Sutton has been no different.

This has led to his usual radio partner Robbie Savage suggesting that Sutton has backtracked on his affection for Celtic, with the ex-Blackburn and Chelsea forward usually fulsome in his praise for the club and its manager.

Savage said on BBC 5 Live: “You are questioning Brendan Rodgers on the TV, which is quite remarkable. He hasn’t improved one player you said, harsh, isn’t it?”

Sutton responded: “Have you seen Celtic play this season? I don’t think it’s harsh. It has been a disappointing season, but still retrievable. Can you do it Celtic?”

Savage came back in strong: “You changed your opinion on Celtic very quickly. You were all over them last year and now you can’t wait to put the boot in. I have heard on the TV ‘Brendan Rodgers has to take responsibility’. You did, pathetic. Bang average you said. They were top of the league until Rangers won.”

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Sutton added: “It’s expectation. Basically, Celtic this season have been really inconsistent, in terms of their performance levels. The Champions League, miles off it.

"There is a lot of unhappiness amongst the fanbase about Celtic not spending their huge amount of money and not bringing lots of players in.

"My point was Brendan Rodgers should be doing better domestically than he is, at this moment in time with the players he has available.”