Brendan Rodgers referenced Aberdeen's "luxury" of playing just once a week as he reflected on the 2-2 draw with Celtic at Parkhead.
The Celtic boss was quizzed on whether Aberdeen were genuine title contenders after Jimmy Thelin's side battled back from 2-0 down to claim a point.
Rodgers stated it is still "very early" but admitted Aberdeen were a "good team" in his post-match interview.
However, he also cited Aberdeen's schedule in his answer as he contrasted it with Celtic playing in European competition in midweek.
"Yeah, they are a good team. Well coached," said Rodgers of Aberdeen.
"They have got that luxury of having that time because they have no European football. They can train, prepare and have a good energy going into each game once a week.
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"So, yeah they work it well. We should win the game today, there is absolutely no doubt about that.
"Once they get the first goal it gives them a bit of belief and we just couldn't quite find the killer instinct in the last 15 minutes or so. They are there, it's still very early, but they did well today."
The Celtic boss then blasted a "careless" period for costing them victory over Aberdeen.
He said: "We get punished for a really careless period between the 50th and 60th minute, we weren't aggressive enough in our pressing.
"Second one we are careless and we give it away in a poor area, that was a frustration."
