Scottish Premiership returns with momentum, pressure and new beginnings

The Scottish Premiership resumes on Saturday after an unusually long international break that arrived just as the campaign was gathering pace. All 12 top-flight teams return to action, with players refreshed and several early-season storylines ready to be tested again.

Rangers host Kilmarnock at Ibrox after six consecutive victories. Derek McInnes’ team will aim to restore its rhythm, while Neil McCann’s visitors arrive encouraged by a win at Hibernian and draws with Aberdeen and Hearts. Kilmarnock are also seeking to become the first visiting league side to score at Ibrox since early August.

Hibernian’s first match under 35-year-old Dutch manager Marink Reedijk comes away to Dundee United at Tannadice. Hibs sit third from bottom, one point above Falkirk and two ahead of Kilmarnock. Reedijk joined late last month without a transfer window, but inherits experienced players and young talent including striker Owen Elding.

Celtic travel to Motherwell on Sunday after three straight defeats in all competitions, including league and cup losses to Rangers. Martin O’Neill’s champions remain two points clear and will also use the match to prepare for Thursday’s Europa League visit to Benfica. Elsewhere, Hearts host St Mirren, Dundee visit Falkirk, and Aberdeen meet St Johnstone, with both sides on eight points from seven matches.

ColdMath take

Rangers must show that their six-game winning run survived the break, while Hibs begin a new managerial era. Celtic’s priority is to stop a three-match slide before travelling to Benfica.

The weekend could also reshape the chase behind the leaders: Hearts, St Mirren, Dundee, Aberdeen and St Johnstone are all positioned to gain ground.