Callum McGregor’s fitness is back in focus ahead of Celtic’s Scottish Cup semi-final against St Mirren this weekend. After being taken off during the league win over the Saints, questions are now building around whether he should start again so soon.
Martin O’Neill made it clear after the match that McGregor had been carrying an issue during the week. The captain still started and got through 73 minutes, but his involvement followed a pattern seen in recent games.
Since returning, his minutes have been managed. He has not completed every game, and there have been signs that Celtic are trying to protect him rather than push him through a full match.
That leaves a decision for Sunday. Celtic can either start him again and hope he gets through it, or hold him back and look for another option in a key area of the pitch.
The problem is there is no straightforward replacement. McGregor’s role at the base of midfield is not one that can be filled easily, especially in a game where control will matter.
Arne Engels is the obvious alternative, but he has only just returned from injury himself. He came off the bench at the weekend and looked steady enough, though the game was already tight at that stage.
If he is asked to start, it would likely be in the holding role. That brings its own questions. Last season, when used deeper, he did not always look comfortable, particularly when games became stretched.
There are other names in the squad, but none look natural fits for that role right now. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has played deeper in the past during his time at Besiktas, but that is not how he has been used at Celtic.
Luke McCowan had a chance in that position against Rangers last month and did not convince. That leaves Engels as the only realistic option if McGregor does not start.
Supporters are split on what should happen. Some feel McGregor has to play, even if he is not fully sharp, given how much Celtic rely on him to move the ball and keep shape in midfield.
Others see the risk. With a run of big games ahead, pushing him again could lead to a bigger problem if the issue worsens.
Engels offers a different option. He can sit and keep things simple, but he would need to show he can handle the position over a full match rather than in short spells.
The decision will shape how Celtic approach the game. With McGregor, they have control when he is right. Without him, the structure changes, and someone else has to take on that responsibility in a high-pressure match.
