Celtic boss Martin O’Neill issues cautious Callum McGregor injury update

Callum McGregor’s fitness remains uncertain after the Celtic captain missed the Scottish Cup quarter-final win over Rangers at Ibrox with a calf problem.

McGregor was ruled out shortly before kick-off, with the issue linked to a calf injury he had managed earlier in the season. His absence forced a change in midfield as Celtic prepared for a difficult afternoon away from home.

Despite Rangers enjoying long spells of pressure and forcing Celtic deep, the visitors held firm over 120 minutes. Celtic created a few clear chances, with much of their focus on defending their box. In midfield, Benjamin Nygren and Reo Hatate spent large parts of the match supporting the defence rather than driving attacks.

The tie finished 0–0 after extra time and was decided on penalties. Tomas Cvancara converted the decisive spot-kick, sending Celtic through and sparking celebrations among the travelling support in the Broomloan Stand.

After the match, manager Martin O’Neill was asked about the players who had missed out. He suggested Kieran Tierney is making progress and might have been able to feature briefly if required, but he was more guarded when discussing his captain.

“Callum, we would just have to have a look,” O’Neill said, via CeltsAreHere, noting that losing both McGregor and Tierney before the game had been a major blow.

Without McGregor, Celtic lacked their usual control in midfield. The captain normally sets the tempo and helps move the ball out of tight areas, but in his absence, the team spent longer defending and enjoyed fewer sustained periods of possession.

Celtic now have a short break before returning to league action, with Motherwell visiting next weekend. The gap in the schedule gives the club’s medical staff time to assess McGregor’s calf and decide whether he can return.