Celtic Midfield Problem Is Impossible to Ignore — There Simply Aren’t Enough Legs

Celtic’s midfield problem is becoming impossible to ignore.

There is quality in Martin O’Neill’s options. What there is not, however, is anywhere near enough running power for the season Celtic are asking this squad to survive.

Callum McGregor and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have enjoyed outstanding careers. Both are now 33, though, and Celtic cannot reasonably expect them to provide relentless box-to-box energy throughout a gruelling campaign.

That is not criticism.

It is reality.

McGregor can still dictate games. Oxlade-Chamberlain possesses obvious technical quality. Yet Celtic cannot construct an entire midfield around two senior players while expecting them to repeatedly cover huge spaces domestically and in Europe.

Celtic desperately lack midfield running power

Luke McCowan remains a useful squad player. He works hard and understands Scottish football, but he is not the explosive, dynamic midfielder Celtic should be relying upon to transform their engine room.

Benjamin Nygren has enjoyed an excellent start to the season. His movement and goal threat have added something different. However, his greatest qualities are not carrying Celtic 40 yards up the pitch or relentlessly recovering ground when possession changes hands.

Mika Baur has also shown promise since arriving from Paderborn.

He looks composed, intelligent and technically secure. In many ways, though, his profile raises precisely the same question.

Where is the runner?

Where is the midfielder capable of bursting beyond opponents, driving through the centre of the pitch and then recovering when Celtic lose possession?

That was one of the qualities Arne Engels provided.

Whatever anyone thought about individual performances, Engels had an engine. He could cover ground, press, carry the ball and offer genuine box-to-box athleticism.

Celtic have not replaced that profile.

Reo Hatate remains another uncertainty. His talent has never been questioned, but his strengths are overwhelmingly technical rather than physical. If Hatate were also to leave, Celtic would be reduced to only five recognised senior midfield options.

Celtic cannot leave this midfield unfinished

This is where the concern becomes serious.

Celtic currently have only six recognised first-team midfielders. Two are 33. One has only just arrived. Hatate’s future remains uncertain.

Then imagine an injury.

Suddenly, Martin O’Neill would have remarkably little room to manoeuvre.

Another midfielder therefore cannot be viewed as some optional deadline-day bonus.

Celtic need legs.

They need acceleration through the middle, recovery speed without the ball, physical power in transition and somebody capable of carrying possession when matches become stretched.

With the European registration deadline now almost upon us, this cannot become another position Celtic simply hope will somehow be fine.

There are good footballers in this midfield.

There are not enough different types of footballer.

And over an entire season, that distinction could become enormous.

Celtic desperately need another engine before this window closes.

Key Takeaways

• Celtic currently have only six recognised first-team midfielders.
• McGregor and Oxlade-Chamberlain are both 33 and cannot provide endless running power.
• Celtic have not replaced the box-to-box athleticism Arne Engels offered.
• Another powerful, mobile midfielder should now be considered essential.