Martin O’Neill insisted Callum McGregor was ‘fine’ after Celtic’s win over St Mirren, but his own admission that he expected only 65 to 70 minutes tells a more cautious story about the captain’s condition.
O’Neill told Premier Sports that they were managing McGregor’s minutes after he was replaced by Luke McCowan in the 73rd minute, saying: “Callum will be fine. We only thought that he would see it through 65, 70 minutes again. But honestly, he’s fine. He’s absolutely fine.”
The 32-year-old is so used to playing the full 90 minutes but has been withdrawn earlier than usual on more than one occasion this season, suggesting that the Hoops are worried about his fitness.
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O’Neill’s reassurance clashes with his own expectation
While the 74-year-old seemed more than confident that his captain isn’t struggling, the Celtic legend somewhat contradicted himself by saying they are managing his minutes.
Instead it suggests that the Bhoys do not want to lose a key asset for the run-in, especially when they currently hold the cards in the title race.
O’Neill may insist there is no issue, but his own words confirm there is still a limit in place. That is the reality behind the reassurance.
Celtic are protecting a key player. The language softens it, but the plan makes it clear.
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Did Celtic play better without Callum McGregor?
Even though his leadership skills can never be doubted, it did feel like the Hoops looked more fluid without him in the middle of the park.
Players like Benjamin Nygren seemed to move the ball quicker and take more risks as opposed to playing the safe option and allowing the build-up play to continue.
If Celtic are forced to play without him again, then we may truly find out if he is holding back the rest of the side, or remains a crucial cog in the team.
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