What does Celtic’s latest loss mean for the Scottish Premiership title race?

Celtic produced a similar performance this season to their one at Tannadice, but came away with three points. Think of the late victories at Kilmarnock and Livingston, or the narrow victory at Falkirk.

But against United, they looked like they were heading towards the beach on a field that had more sand than grass.

The home side created more, had more quality in the final third, and posed a greater threat. Celtic’s front three struggled throughout the game.

“They couldn’t create anything,” said former Parkhead goalkeeper Pat Bonner. “They don’t have a striker who can turn the game around when they don’t play well.

“I’ve seen it in the past, a lot of good strikers haven’t done anything in a game but have that ability to score a goal when you’re struggling.

“That doesn’t seem to exist at the moment.”

Kelechi Iheanacho made his first league start since October, having made just one substitute appearance and featuring in the League Cup final for 35 minutes in the meantime.

Thomas Cvankara, who has started five league matches since his arrival last January, was ill. Junior Adamu, another winter addition, made two starts and was substituted at half-time in both.

“They look fragile,” Bonner said of his former club. He added: “Celtic is under real pressure now. The question many are asking now is: Is their championship over?”