Celtic must take Callum McGregor risk despite ‘legitimate’ concerns ahead of showdown v Rangers
Graeme McGarry has urged Celtic to take a risk on Callum McGregor ahead of their game against Rangers on Sunday (7 April).
Writing on The National website on Thursday (4 April), the journalist said the Hoops’ chances of claiming a victory in the Old Firm would be “greatly increased” if their captain is able to start at Ibrox.
Although he admitted that there are “legitimate” concerns over the 30-year-old midfielder following his Achilles injury, he added that the Scotland international’s general fitness – having played more than 60 games a season in recent years – may mean it’s less of an issue for him compared to other players.
“Celtic’s chances of a third win over their great city rivals this term, and what would be the most crucial victory yet, would certainly be greatly increased if McGregor was to make it,” said McGarry.
“Any concerns over his stamina levels after a few weeks out are legitimate enough on the face of it, with former Rangers captain Lee McCulloch expressing doubts this week about the wisdom of McGregor being thrown into such a fixture as ‘it’s not as if you can pace yourself’ in an Old Firm game.
“True enough, but given McGregor’s general fitness levels and his consistent capacity to manage over 60 games a season over the past few years, that is perhaps not quite as major a concern as it might be with other players.
“The outcome of the game might not solely boil down to whether McGregor makes it or not, but if he has any chance of lining up at Ibrox, Celtic have to take the risk. And Rangers, for their part, simply have to find a way to stop him.”
Could Callum McGregor start for Celtic against Rangers?
It feels as though Brendan Rodgers really has to gamble on McGregor’s fitness given how much of a difference he could make for the Celtic side.
The midfielder showed his quality in the Old Firm clash on 30 December, proving why many believe he is the best player in the Scottish Premiership.
It would be a boost for Rangers if the Hoops captain doesn’t manage to start the game, but Philippe Clement’s midfield is in better shape than it was the last time the two sides went head-to-head.
The Gers boss will be looking for his players to be much more competitive in the middle of the park as that is where the game can be won and lost.
It will be another good test for the Belgian to see where his squad are at on the back of the progress they have made since he made the move to Glasgow.
In other Rangers news, a pundit has reacted to an accusation aimed at the SFA following an Old Firm development.
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