Iain Dowie has called for a "readjustment of expectations" for Scottish football.
The former Crystal Palace boss made the plea after a poor European period for the Premiership's top clubs. Dowie described Rangers' absence from UEFA competition as a "major shock."
He said: "Any time Rangers or Celtic are involved in European competitions, it’s significant. The shock of Rangers not being in Europe at all is immense." [BOYLE Sports, who offer football odds]
Dowie also highlighted Celtic's Champions League disappointment, saying it showed "the distance Scottish sides must travel to make a sustained impact at the top level."
He added: "Martin has very bravely taken responsibility for Celtic’s result, which was, in some ways, shocking...
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"At least Celtic are in Europe. It’s disappointing not to be in the Champions League, but that’s where things stand."
Dowie believes fans need to be realistic about the Scottish Premiership’s standing compared with England’s second tier.
He said: "People need to look at the level the Scottish Premiership is at right now. Is it better than the Championship? No, it isn’t.
"There needs to be a readjustment of expectations regarding where Scottish football is in the rankings."
