Celtic supporters were left wondering whether captain Callum McGregor was carrying an injury after he was substituted in the 75th minute of the Hoops’ 2-0 win over Hibernian this afternoon at Celtic Park.
As McGregor made his way off the pitch with the game still hanging in the balance, Stewart said: (Premier Sports), “You don’t often see Callum McGregor going off, and I just wonder whether he’s carrying something. Perhaps for him to come off in the last two games now just makes you wonder whether he’s nursing something.” Stewart’s comments come after a similar situation eight days ago when McGregor was substituted in the 65th minute against St Mirren, with the game 2-2 at that point. In both instances, McGregor was substituted at critical moments of the game, raising questions about his fitness because if he were able to carry on, he simply would have.
Callum McGregor has been a model of consistency for Celtic over the years. As club captain, he is one of the first names on the team sheet and rarely misses a match. However, in recent games, the midfielder has looked more vulnerable to be substituted early than usual, with fans beginning to question whether his early exits are a sign of a lingering injury problem.
While it’s not uncommon for players to experience minor knocks or fatigue throughout the season, especially in the demanding schedule Celtic have faced this season, McGregor’s professionalism and resilience are unquestioned. He has previously played through discomfort in the past, so it’s no surprise that Celtic supporters are left hoping Stewart’s comments are no more than over-analysis of a standard substitution.
With the Glasgow Derby against Rangers next Sunday, McGregor’s fitness will certainly be a topic of concern for fans. However, there is some hope that Stewart’s observations may be overblown. After all, McGregor will have the international break following the Rangers game, which could give him the opportunity to rest and recover from any injury concern.
Celtic supporters will be hopeful that the captain is simply being managed carefully, ensuring he remains at full fitness for the business end of the season. After all, with the prospect of another treble on the line, McGregor’s leadership and experience will be crucial in upcoming games in the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup.
As we look ahead to what is set to be another exciting game against Rangers, fans can only hope that Callum McGregor’s substitution against Hibernian was a precautionary measure rather than a sign of an ongoing injury concern. With an international break looming, Celtic supporters will be breathing a sigh of relief if McGregor can get the rest he needs before the season ramps up once again. For now, the focus will remain on Sunday’s Glasgow Derby clash, where McGregor’s influence will undoubtedly be crucial to a Celtic win.
