The journey for a young defender at Celtic is rarely a straight line, and Dane Murray’s current campaign has been the definition of an indifferent season.
Despite Murray being on the fringes at times, the academy graduate remains one of the most intriguing prospects in the system, largely due to the immense character he has shown in the face of adversity.
Murray hasn’t just survived the pressure; he has leaned into the mentorship of those who have walked the path before him, specifically citing the influence of former Celtic captain Stephen McManus.
“I worked with Mick when he was at the reserves,” Murray noted when discussing his development.
“For me, anyway, to have somebody I can turn to that’s had the experience I am similarly going through, I think it’s good.”
It’s that time 👀 – Tell us your score prediction for this weekend
Dane Murray praises Stephen McManus during Celtic development
That experience and proof of learning was on full display during Murray’s standout performance at Ibrox recently, as Celtic knocked Rangers out of the Scottish Cup.
On a day when many young players would have crumbled, he was brilliant off the bench, showing a level of composure and tactical maturity that suggests his ceiling is far higher than his sporadic minutes might imply.
Remember, only a week earlier, Murray made a mistake that led to Rangers’ second goal, but he has bounced back in serious style since then.
By channelling the guidance of a leader like McManus, who is part of Martin O’Neill’s coaching staff, Murray is proving he has the mental fortitude required to succeed at a club of this stature.
The 22-year-old rightfully lauded McManus in his pre-match press conference, as Celtic host Motherwell on Saturday afternoon in another tricky Premiership clash.
A recent injury has pushed Murray to the bench, but he could return to the XI against Jens Berthel Askou’s side, with Auston Trusty still suspended.
‘I worked with Mick when he was at the reserves,” said Murray. “I think I was 16 or 17 at the time.
“I have known Mick for a really long time. Also, as a player here, he was brilliant. He was the captain.
“For me, anyway, to have somebody I can turn to that’s had the experience. I am similarly going through, I think it’s good.”
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
