Johan Mjallby believes Celtic can still win the league, but he has made clear there is one area that worries him.
The Hoops sit in the thick of the title race, just three points behind Hearts with a game in hand. Late goals have kept them there. Martin O’Neill has won 15 of his 18 matches since returning, yet performances have not always been smooth.
Mjallby, who knows what a title run-in looks like, expects it to go to the wire. He sees enough quality in the squad to get over the line. At the same time, he has spotted a flaw that could cost them if it is not fixed quickly.
For him, it comes down to how the defence holds up when games are not going Celtic’s way.
He said: (Premier Sports Scottish Football Social Club), “I do (believe they will do it). I think it’s going to be nip-and-tuck. I have a wee incline that it is going to be decided on the last day.
“It’s a worry for me.
“If they are not going to be solid enough when it comes to the run in, then they are going to struggle to win it (the league).
“They are scoring goals but they can’t really think that is going to be it. They need to get better at set pieces, every time I watch them at one I get worried.
“It looks to me that they are very vulnerable at set pieces. That is something that the manager has to address, there is no question about that.”
Set pieces have caused problems at times. Celtic have lost goals from corners and free-kicks, usually when they fail to win the first ball. When you are pushing for an equaliser or a winner, that risk grows because more players are up the pitch.
There is no shortage of goals at the other end. Nygren keeps finding the net. Araujo has delivered in big moments. Players coming off the bench have changed games. Still, matches late in the season can turn on one delivery into the box.
Mjallby’s message is clear. If Celtic get stronger in defence, they put themselves in a strong position. If they do not, it only takes one mistake to cost them.
