Celtic handed ‘massive’ Rangers blow after McGregor news confirmed – pundit
The injury to Celtic captain Callum McGregor is a “massive blow” to Ange Postecoglou’s chances of claiming victory against Rangers, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Aberdeen striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 28-year-old’s “influence” on and off the pitch will be sorely missed in the Old Firm clash.
Speaking to Sky Sports on Sunday (23 January), Hoops boss Postecoglou hinted at a long term layoff for McGregor after he sustained a facial injury in Celtic’s 2-1 win over Alloa in the Scottish Cup.
Football Insider injury expert Ben Dinnery updated yesterday (24 January) to suggest the midfielder could be set for surgery and up to two months on the sidelines as he recovers.
Whelan claimed the injury has come at a “really bad time” for Celtic.
“That’s a massive blow,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“You don’t ever want to lose one of your best players, but he is one who knows exactly what the Old Firm derby is all about.
“When you’re talking about influences on a game and in the changing room, he is a big part of that at Celtic. He’s the captain.
“It’s a really bad time to get a key injury to another really key player. It’s a really bad time for Ange Postecoglou.
“If they can beat Rangers next week it pulls them right back into the hunt for the title. It piles the pressure on them.”
Kyogo Furuhashi is still sidelined for Celtic, while Liel Abada and Yosuke Iedguchi both limped off during the weekend’s cup win.
The Parkhead side are just four points adrift of Rangers ahead of the Old Firm clash on 2 February.
In other news, Danny Mills issues bold Matt O’Riley verdict and “Celtic fans may see it as disrespectful”.