Scottish Premiership 2023/24: Expert Insights and Bold Predictions by Kris Boyd and Chris Sutton

The upcoming 2023/24 Scottish Premiership season is poised to be captivating. Esteemed pundits Kris Boyd and Chris Sutton have taken the task of forecasting the final positions for each team. While the title race seems to narrow down to two teams once more, every Scottish Premiership club has much to play for.

There is the battle for the top six and European football and who will be the team to drop into the Championship come the end of the season?

Aberdeen

Image:

Duk was Aberdeen's top scorer last season

Kris Boyd - 4th

Following a successful conclusion to the season led by Barry Robson, Aberdeen aims to continue their upward trajectory. Last year, Duk proved himself as a challenging opponent, and Bojan Miovski reinforced this notion. However, the team's defensive capabilities suffered a significant blow with the departure of Matty Pollock and Ross McCrorie. In an effort to bounce back, Aberdeen has invested in rebuilding the squad and this will be crucial for their future success. It is worth noting that the team has secured European football until Christmas, which may present its own challenges. Personally, I believe there is a possibility of a role reversal with Hearts this season.

Predicted ranking by Chris Sutton: 3rd

Celtic

: Boost for Aberdeen with Retained Key Players

Aberdeen can celebrate a significant advantage with the retention of Duk and Bojan Miovski, who delivered outstanding performances in the previous season. Barry Robson's influential presence as the team's leader brought about remarkable changes, successfully acquiring a number of talented players. Maintaining their formidable strikeforce ensures that Aberdeen is poised to secure the top position among the challengers once again.

Kris Boyd secured the second position.

Having experienced it before, Brendan Rodgers knows exactly what lies ahead. He suffered only one defeat against Rangers in his previous stint in Scotland. While Brendan may believe he can achieve unprecedented success again, any early setbacks or dropped points will quickly silence those who were eager for his return. There is no denying Brendan's exceptional managerial skills, and it is commendable that Celtic managed to secure him after Ange Postecoglou's departure. Not many individuals would have been confident enough to follow in his footsteps considering his remarkable achievements. Although Brendan Rodgers exudes confidence, if Rangers find a consistent way to outperform his team this season, it will undoubtedly present a different challenge for him.

Chris Sutton describes Brendan Rodgers' return to Celtic as different this time because he is taking over a team that has already achieved a treble. Despite Postecoglou's departure and the high standards he set, Brendan is a highly regarded coach and is taking charge of a strong team. However, in the demanding environment of Glasgow, there can only be one winner, making this season particularly intriguing. It is crucial for Celtic to begin the season strongly, especially as they are free from the burden of Champions League qualifiers unlike Rangers.

Dundee

Image:

Tony Docherty is Dundee's new manager

I expect Dundee to face significant challenges in the upcoming season. While I don't mean to dismiss the Championship, they struggled in their performance last year. Like many teams at the lower end of the table, I don't anticipate them scoring many goals, so their defenders will need to excel at defending. They had difficulty keeping clean sheets last season. With a new manager and structure in place, it might be a difficult season, but I believe they will, at the very least, secure a spot in the playoffs.

Tony Docherty's first season as a manager will undoubtedly be a challenging one. Despite having a limited budget, he has made significant changes to the squad in a bid to ensure Dundee remains in the league. However, I personally believe that the task at hand may prove too overwhelming, and they are likely to be relegated.

Hearts

Kris Boyd - 3rd

There should be clear and definitive understanding of the person in control. Whenever Hearts manage to gain momentum, an unforeseen event occurs, putting them at a disadvantage once again. Nevertheless, I am optimistic that they will bounce back this season. Lawrence Shankland's ability to score goals, combined with the adjustments they have been working on during preseason following Robbie Neilson's departure, gives them hope. In my opinion, they will secure the third position since qualifying for Europe seems unlikely, enabling them to concentrate solely on the league.

Prediction: Chris Sutton - 5th.

Hibernian

I sympathized with Robbie Neilson as I sensed that many Hearts fans desired his departure. However, I believed he performed admirably, leading to a more expansive style of play. Undoubtedly, Lawrence Shankland holds great significance for the team, but the absence of Josh Ginnelly following his transfer to Swansea will be felt. Have they found a suitable replacement for him? I am uncertain. The commencement of their season is crucial in terms of fostering belief and momentum. Nonetheless, I anticipate that this season may present increased challenges for them.

Image:

Can Lee Johnson guide Hibs to success this season?

Kris Boyd - 5th

If they hadn't reversed their defeat to Inter Club D'Escaldes in Europa Conference League qualifying, there would have been immense pressure on them. Although many Hibs fans are growing tired of Lee Johnson, they have granted him the opportunity to invest money in order to make a significant difference. The scheduling of matches has been favorable for Hibs, and it is crucial for them to begin with determination before encountering formidable opponents such as Hearts, Celtic, and Rangers.

Chris Sutton - 4th

Kilmarnock

I derive great pleasure from observing Hibs in action, especially because Lee Johnson adopts an expansive style of football and endeavors to introduce unique strategies. It is crucial for them to remain in European competition in order to maintain the support of their fans. Moreover, they consistently deliver an entertaining brand of football on certain occasions. Despite facing the challenge of replacing a remarkable striker like Kevin Nisbet, they have managed to make some commendable signings during the summer. Consequently, I anticipate that they will outperform their rivals from the same city in the upcoming season.

Image:

Derek McInnes has overhauled his Kilmarnock squad

Kris Boyd - 7th

Derek McInnes has made some shrewd signings, bringing in players who are familiar with the league. Keeping Kyle Magennis fit will be crucial and his addition is a positive move. The team's defense is a strong suit, something Derek takes pride in. The acquisition of Robbie Deas from Inverness is a smart business decision. The signing of Stuart Findley is particularly significant to me, as he has experience and leadership qualities. If Kilmarnock can establish a consistent starting lineup, they will be competitive for a spot in the top six. However, I do predict that they will narrowly miss out.

Chris Sutton - Predicted position: 8th

Derek McInnes, the astute manager, has brought about significant changes at Kilmarnock. Notably, he has strengthened the team with the addition of several defenders, a crucial aspect for their success. However, their away record last season was woefully inadequate, with only two victories on the road. Nevertheless, with Derek's wealth of experience, he will ensure their survival in the league. Additionally, he will strive to elevate their performance and I anticipate a higher finish on the table for them this season.

Livingston

Livingston is facing a challenge this season as they have lost several players. David Martindale, the coach, is hoping to retain Joel Nouble, as he has been working with a smaller budget this summer. Despite the financial constraints, Martindale has managed to bring in some experienced players to the team. This is the first time I have observed Livingston and felt concerned about their performance. However, I believe they will find a way to survive in the league once again, although it will not be an easy task.

Chris Sutton predicts that Livingston, a team known for consistently avoiding relegation from the league, might have a tougher time this season. Despite the impressive work of their coach David Martindale in keeping the team organized, Sutton believes that their success on their synthetic turf home ground might not be enough. He predicts that this season could be a challenging one for Livingston and expects them to face the playoffs.

Motherwell

Image:

Stuart Kettlewell guided Motherwell to safety last season

I have sympathy for Motherwell regarding Kevin van Veen's departure after his exceptional season. His loss will be irreplaceable. Additionally, losing Max Johnston is a significant setback as he possessed great talent. However, Motherwell may find a ray of hope in young Lennon Miller. Despite being only 16 years old, he possesses the physicality and strength to make a noteworthy impact. I believe we will see him in action soon. Despite these departures, I have confidence that Motherwell will build upon their impressive finish under Stuart Kettlewell and secure a spot in the top half of the league.

Chris Sutton finished in 7th place last season. Motherwell will face a significant challenge in filling the void left by Kevin van Veen's goal-scoring abilities. Stuart Kettlewell stepped in admirably last season, rejuvenating the team at critical moments. Although they have made some new signings, the departures of Max Johnston and Connor Shields have deprived them of significant talent. In my opinion, Motherwell will have a decent season but may fall short of securing a spot in the top six.

Rangers

Kris Boyd - 1st

Rangers must find a way to consistently win against Celtic in order to compete for trophies. They have been living in the shadow of their rivals for a while now, and this needs to change quickly. The club has shown support for Michael Beale during the summer, and now it's time for results. The early fixtures have been favorable for Rangers, providing them with an opportunity to build momentum. If they can secure victories leading up to the next Old Firm game and manage to defeat Celtic at home, anything is possible.

Ross County

Michael Beale is expected to have gained valuable insights from the previous season. Despite his initial confidence, it seemed that he ended the season on a seemingly humbled note. The defeats in last season's League Cup final and Scottish Cup final to Celtic, coupled with his "lucky Ange" remarks, must have served as crucial learning experiences for him. With both Rangers and Celtic boasting impressive players, I believe this season will be a closely contested one. Rangers have made significant additions to their squad, but ultimately, their success will depend on how seamlessly these new players can integrate and perform right from the start.

Image:

Jay Henderson is one of Ross County's summer signings

Kris Boyd - 9th

Ross County narrowly avoided relegation last season, but managed to secure victories and retain their place in the league. Under Malky Mackay's leadership, the team has been significantly reinforced, with talented players who possess the ability to create opportunities and find the back of the net. Ensuring the fitness of key players such as Eamonn Brophy, Simon Murray, and Yan Dhanda will be crucial to their success. However, defensively, they appear to be susceptible. Personally, I hope they can once again survive this year, and I believe they will. Prediction: 9th place - Chris Sutton.

St Johnstone

I believe that Ross County will secure their place in the league and experience a much more comfortable season compared to the previous one. Malky Mackay faces a certain challenge in persuading players to relocate to Dingwall. Nevertheless, his astute managerial skills and ability to turn things around were evident in the remarkable playoff comeback against Partick Thistle towards the end of last season. Coupled with the presence of seasoned players, Mackay will ensure that the team is well-organized and ready to face any challenges ahead.

Image:

It has been a tough start for St Johnstone manager Steven MacLean

Kris Boyd - 12th

St Johnstone's alarm bells began to ring when they suffered defeats against Stenhousemuir and Stirling Albion, as well as failing to progress beyond the group stages of the League Cup. In order to improve their situation, Steven McLean requires additional players. It is my hope that he receives the same support his predecessors have had, providing him with the greatest chances of survival. Regrettably, I fear that time may be running out for St Johnstone. Although I hope to be proven wrong, I have a sense that they will struggle to recover from their League Cup elimination.

St Mirren

St Johnstone's performance in the League Cup does not inspire confidence for the upcoming season. Despite Steven MaLean's suggestion that he fielded a weakened team against Stirling Albion, losing 4-0 at home to a recently promoted League One side is a major cause for concern. It appears that they will face significant challenges this season, but they should manage to secure their survival once again by putting in enough effort.

Image:

Stephen Robinson guided St Mirren to their first top six finish last season

Kris Boyd - 8th

I wrongly predicted St Mirren's relegation last season, as they had a remarkable campaign. Stephen Robinson's expertise lies in constructing solid teams that are difficult to penetrate. Despite losing Curtis Main, who provided an attacking threat, I believe they will remain solid defensively. However, scoring goals could be a challenge for them. While I don't expect them to replicate their previous season's performance, they should have enough quality to ensure their safety in the league.

Prediction: St Mirren - 6th place.

Scottish Premiership and SWPL on Sky Sports

Stephen Robinson excels as a manager of remarkable ability. St Mirren will feel the absence of Curtis Main, who played a major role in their accomplishments last season. With the addition of Mikel Mandron, as well as high expectations for Conor McMenamin following his transition from Glentoran, Robinson anticipates continued success. Despite their occasionally straightforward style of play, it proves effective. As a result, they are poised to secure a top-six finish for the second consecutive season.

In the upcoming season, there will be up to 48 exciting cinch Premiership games broadcasted on We's flagship channels, namely We Football and We Main Event. Moreover, at least five matches from the SWPL will also be available to watch. Looking ahead, starting from 2024/25, you can enjoy up to 60 cinch Premiership games live on We, alongside the SWPL matches.

We News offers round-the-clock coverage of Scottish football, providing fans with rolling editorial coverage of the cinch Premiership and SWPL throughout the season. You can tune in to channel 409 to enjoy their 24/7 coverage.

Stay up-to-date with all the latest news in Scottish football through We Digital. Access exclusive features, interviews, and dedicated live blog coverage on SkySports.com and the app. You can also watch in-game clips from matches live on We and catch free highlights.

We will provide comprehensive coverage and promotion of the league on all of our main social media channels at We Social. Additionally, our exclusive Twitter channel @ScotlandSky will remain the go-to platform for all Scottish football content on We.

Don't miss out on our weekly highlights show on We Football, where we will bring you a dedicated round-up of the cinch Premiership.

To download the We app, click here. To visit the We website, click here.

We is the ultimate destination for domestic football in the UK and Ireland. Offering a staggering lineup of over 400 games per season, We covers a wide range of leagues including the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Women's Premier League, Premier League, WSL, and EFL.