I don’t want to come across as being critical of Callum McGregor, because he’s been one of the best servants the club has had in the last decade. But at some point we need to be honest about what we’re seeing and what MON himself keeps telling us.
McGregor is clearly carrying something. MON has said it in every press conference without actually saying it: “managed minutes”, “we’ll see how he feels”, “he won’t play the full game”, “we’re protecting him”. That’s not language you use for a fully fit captain.
And here’s the thing that sticks with me:
MON would never start an injured player in any other position. He just wouldn’t. He’s old‑school. He’s ruthless. He’s logical.
If a winger had a knock, he’d rest him. If a centre‑half was 80%, he’d rest him. If a striker was half-fit, he’d rest him.
So why are we pretending the No. 6 role — the most physically demanding position on the pitch — is the exception?
When McGregor isn’t 100%, his whole game changes. He naturally goes safer, recycles more, avoids the bursts, avoids the risk. That’s not a criticism — that’s what any midfielder does when they’re playing through something. It’s human.
And this is a big part of why we’ve struggled this season. When the midfield keeps recycling the ball instead of breaking lines, everything becomes predictable. Teams sit in, we pass in circles, and the whole tempo dies. It’s not all on McGregor, but when your deepest midfielder is playing within himself, the entire structure slows down with him.
And against Falkirk, of all teams, what’s the upside of starting him? What’s the gain? What’s the logic?
We’ve got fresher legs who can do the running. We’ve got players who need minutes. We’ve got a captain who clearly needs protected.
This isn’t “drop McGregor”. This is “manage McGregor properly”.
If MON genuinely believes in not risking injured players, then this is the exact type of game where you follow that principle. Protect him now, get the best version of him when it matters.
That’s not disrespect — that’s just common sense. 