Celtic aren’t in the best position heading into Christmas.
Fortunately, Celtic have provided some late drama to add some feel-good factor to the proceedings this season.
Callum McGregor has scored several of them, including an extra-time stunner against Rangers in the League Cup semi-finals and a spectacular winner against St Mirren last time out.
However, while McGregor has experienced highs, he has also faced criticism this season, and Marvin Bartley has made every effort to defend him.
Callum McGregor is credited for creating big moments for Celtic.
Bartley is a member of the Livingston coaching staff, and he faced the Scottish champions back in August, losing 3-0.
But, speaking on Clyde 1, he was unhappy with the criticism McGregor has received this season.
Bartley explained that the Celtic captain has ‘came up with big moments’ on several occasions, and that ‘nobody will worry about the performances’, only the outcome.
“Callum McGregor comes up with a huge, huge goal in the end,” according to Bartley. “At the conclusion of the season, no one will care about the performances as long as Celtic wins another league title.
“You know when you’re not feeling your best. You have to win football games. Good teams and players create good moments.
“Callum McGregor is perhaps one of the players that has received some criticism. People are saying, “Oh, I’m not sure he should be starting for Celtic week after week.”
“He demonstrated against St Mirren why he should be playing when a team is struggling. He can place himself in that situation as well. He creates enormous moments.
“As you mentioned, three points versus St Mirren. It is not something to be taken lightly.
McGregor’s Season in Numbers
Even with the controversy off the pitch with Celtic’s AGM being canceled last week.
The Hoops wanted to make more noise on the pitch, and it appeared that the game in Paisley was heading for a draw.
McGregor stepped up and made sure there was something to talk about following another eventful week in Glasgow.
In terms of numbers, McGregor’s season has looked as follows:
Premiership stats: 12 games, 2 goals, 0 assists, 1.7 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, 1.7 clearances, and 0.8 key passes.
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