MacKenzie Carse, our very own promising star from the Celtic B squad, has just packed his bags for a stint at Queen’s Park, a move that could prove instrumental in his personal development.

It’s a chance for the lad to dip his toes into the rough-and-tumble world of senior football. At just 19, Carse is stepping into a crucial phase of his career, one that could shape his future in hoops.

The chatter among the Celtic supporters is a mix of hope and a bit of weariness. They’re keen to see Carse spread his wings and soar. After all, watching one of our own rise through the ranks, from the youth academy to the first team, is something that brings a special kind of pride.

But there’s also this niggling worry about our youngsters, about making sure they’re getting the right kind of challenges to hone their skills. It’s no secret that the Scottish Lowland League, where the B team’s been cutting their teeth, isn’t exactly the premier battleground for forging top-notch talent. It’s decent, sure, but it’s not the kind of place where future legends are going to be made.

So, this loan to Queen’s Park could be just what the doctor ordered for Carse. The Scottish Championship is a step up, a place where he’ll come up against some tough and talented players.

The big picture here is clear. We’re all keenly aware of the need to keep our best young talents and give them as much quality game time as possible.

It’s about striking that balance – nurturing our youngsters, giving them the right opportunities, and making sure they’re ready to step up when the call comes. With Carse heading to Queen’s Park, it’s a step in the right direction, a move that signals our commitment to developing our future stars.