Darren O'Dea believes Celtic are hitting their stride at the perfect moment, as the defending champions look to overtake Hearts and reclaim the top spot in the Scottish Premiership. With just two games left in the season, every match feels like a final—and the Hoops are proving they thrive under pressure.

Celtic currently trail Hearts by a single point after a thrilling 3-1 comeback victory over Rangers on Sunday. The win was a statement of resilience, especially after falling behind early. Next up is a tricky trip to Motherwell on Wednesday, before the season finale at home against Hearts—a match that could decide the title.

This season has been anything but smooth for Celtic. The club turned to veteran interim manager Martin O'Neill twice after Brendan Rodgers and Wilfried Nancy departed. O'Neill has navigated challenges both on and off the pitch, steadying a ship that could have easily drifted off course.

O'Dea, speaking on the BBC's Scottish Football Podcast, highlighted a key factor that has flown under the radar: injuries to crucial players. "Celtic have been criticised for performances and recruitment, but something that has gone unnoticed is the really big players missing through injury," he said. "Carter-Vickers, Jota, and the two who have come back in—Johnston and Engels. Some players need time to get back up to speed, but you can see how they've instantly impacted the team."

While O'Dea admitted he hasn't felt fully confident in Celtic all season due to inconsistent performances, he praised their unshakeable mentality. "The one thing you can never question is their ability to get things done. The performance against Rangers was a really good level, especially after going behind early. Now there's a good synergy between the team and the crowd at Celtic Park again."

As the season reaches its climax, O'Dea sees all the ingredients coming together. "When you start adding these pieces, it's starting to come together at exactly the right time. If they can get to that last game against Hearts and make it essentially a final, I fully expect Celtic to go and win. Even if it goes to goal difference, I can see them overcoming that—winning two or three nil."

For Celtic fans, the message is clear: the Hoops are peaking when it matters most. And with the right gear and mindset, anything is possible on the final day.