**Title: The Current standing of Celtic in the Scottish Premier League: Average Possession Percentage (APP) Analysis**
**Header:**
"Scottish Premier League: Celtic Leads in Average Possession Percentage Ahead of Season's Start"
**Introduction:**
In the Scottish Premier League, Average Possession Percentage (APP) is a critical metric that gauges the intensity of the game. Calculated by dividing the number of attempted passes by the number of possession opportunities, APP reflects how much of the game is actively played, excluding passes to and from the goalkeeper. A higher APP indicates a more engaged and competitive game, reflecting a more dynamic team. This article delves into the current standings of Celtic, particularly their APP, and compares it with the league average.
**Current Situation:**
As of the latest update, Celtic currently sits in the top three of the Scottish Premier League, ahead of teams like Manchester United and Palace. However, their current APP stands at 52%, which is below the league average of 55%. This gap is significant, as it influences team strategy and motivation.
**Analysis:**
Celtic's lower APP suggests they may be taking more defensive risks, which could affect their performance against stronger teams. On the other hand, teams like Manchester United and Palace, with higher APP, might be better positioned to exploit the defensive pressure. The league average of 55% indicates that, on average, the game is less contested. Celtic's recent matches, including their recent defeat to Palace, have been marked by defensive setups, which could have implications for their performance.
**Conclusion:**
The current standings of Celtic in the Scottish Premier League highlight the importance of APP in understanding a team's performance. While their current APP is below league average, their strategy can have a significant impact. Teams with higher APP, such as Manchester United and Palace, may gain an advantage, as they can exploit Celtic's defensive pressure. The league's dynamic nature underscores the importance of APP in evaluating game intensity and team effectiveness.