Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Scottish Premiership match.
Dundee United held Celtic to a goalless draw in the last round. So why shouldn't they beat St. Johnstone, who are at the bottom of the Premiership table?
St. Johnstone
For the first time this season, St. Johnstone have sunk to last place. Previously, it was Heart of Midlothian occupying that spot, but they managed to beat St. Johnstone (2:1), pushing the Perth club to the bottom. The reason is a four-match winless run, during which they have earned just one point. Additionally, their small budget is a hindrance, allowing them to assemble one of the league’s least expensive squads. The average annual salary is only €87,056, with only three clubs in the league having lower wage bills.
Dundee United
Dundee United are not much different in terms of squad cost (just a million more), but they play much more strategically. They have not lost by more than one goal to anyone, and even Celtic couldn't break through. Even with 78% possession and 17 shots, Celtic couldn't score, accumulating just a laughable 0.79 xG from that many attempts.
St. Johnstone vs Dundee United Prediction
It's odd that a club ranked fourth in the away table is evaluated almost equally with the clear Premiership underdog. Therefore, we are betting on the visitors with a zero handicap.