Celtic manager Ronny Deila has claimed that Aberdeen are better equipped to mount a title challenge this season than the previous campaign.

The Dons finished as runners-up to the Glasgow giants in last year's title race, 17 points behind Deila's charges.

"They are a better team this year than last year," said the Norwegian, whose side face Derek McInnes's squad on Saturday.

"They have brought in good players and kept their team. They have more experience and have started well, it's going to be a tough game."

Celtic are a point ahead of Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership table, though the Dons have a game in hand.