Neil Lennon worried about key Celtic man after ‘uncharacteristic’ display vs Rangers

Celtic are still well in the title race courtesy of their spirited performance last weekend at Ibrox that resulted in a 3-3 draw.

In truth, the Bhoys will feel a sense of frustration that they weren’t able to claim maximum points from the affair, as Rabbi Matondo’s curler in stoppage time rescued a point for the hosts.

Nevertheless, goals from Daizen Maeda, Matt O’Riley and Adam Idah ensured Celtic left Glasgow’s southside with their prospects of claiming the Scottish Premiership crown in a strong position ahead of their final six league fixtures.

Next up, St Mirren Travel to Parkhead on Saturday seeking to bolster their European aspirations; nevertheless, Brendan Rodgers has a clean bill of Health concerning his squad, unless any absences come to light in his press conference, which will be scheduled for later this week.

Regardless if Rangers’ fixture against Dundee tomorrow goes ahead, Celtic will ensure they are at the summit this weekend by claiming three points against Stephen Robinson’s Buddies.

Club captain Callum McGregor came off the bench to replace Tomoki Iwata after the hour mark last Sunday; nevertheless, it remains to be seen whether the Scotland international is fit to start this time around.

Neil Lennon on Celtic captain Callum McGregor’s fitness

Ex-Celtic captain Neil Lennon was displeased by what he saw from McGregor in his cameo display last weekend; however, the 51-year-old believes his recent fitness struggles may have had a part to play.

Speaking to PLZ Soccer, the Parkhead icon indicated that his old side has the tools in the engine room to play on the front foot without their skipper if needed in upcoming matches.

He stated: “I think he’s still carrying a bit. When he’s not in the line-up before the Game you’re worried but the way Celtic took to the Game, we didn’t miss him.

“He didn’t look great. I don’t know if he’s got a long-term problem. It’s very uncharacteristic of him. He’s very, very rusty.”

For anyone watching on Sunday, it was patently obvious that McGregor wasn’t at full tilt when he came on, though a few days of training at Lennoxtown will have done our captain the world of good heading into our clash against St Mirren.

Whether or not he makes the starting line-up this weekend, McGregor will work his way back to fitness and be a key player during the run-in.

Related Topics