Callum McGregor has leapt to the defence of Arne Engels, backing his teammate to go from strength to strength after an impressive debut season at Celtic, despite recent criticism from some sections of the support.
The Belgian midfielder has been under the spotlight in recent weeks, particularly following a quiet showing in the Glasgow derby at Ibrox.
He had started well in the match, but fell off and was eventually hooked by Brendan Rodgers in the second half, with Paulo Bernardo replacing him.
But McGregor insists there’s no doubt inside the dressing room about Engels’ talent, temperament, and contribution.
“He has got massive quality, massive ability,” McGregor said, as quoted by The Herald.
“He has got a great temperament, and he has scored 10 goals, a really good return for his first season.
“He is only going to get better, which is a brilliant thing for us.
“For a first season, to come in and settle the way that he has, we are really proud of him and happy with what he has done.
“He has played 10 Champions League games, all these derby games, and a part of a successful Celtic team who are hopefully going to finish at least 17 points clear, and we have another cup final to add to what we have already done.
“To be a part of it, to be a huge part of it, to have played so many games then what a really good return and such a bulk of work that he will have that experience, and he will come back in the summer and be even better for it.”
Engels, still just 21, has been a regular fixture in Brendan Rodgers’ side, operating in a variety of roles across midfield and featuring heavily both domestically and in Europe.
Despite the scrutiny, Engels has racked up over 40 appearances this term, including 10 Champions League matches where he scored once and assisted three times, several derby starts, and an influential role in Celtic’s Premiership title win and League Cup triumph.
With one game left that matters – the Scottish Cup Final – Rodgers will be hoping Engels can silence the doubters and finish the season strong. And with the full backing of his captain, the young midfielder is clearly still seen as a key piece of Celtic’s future.
