Arne Engels’ performance in Sunday’s Glasgow derby has drawn criticism, with questions raised once again about the Belgian midfielder’s consistency and suitability for Celtic’s engine room in high-pressure fixtures.

The 21-year-old has been a divisive figure amongst the supporters since arriving in a big-money move last summer. While some see the technical quality and long-term potential, others argue he’s not yet delivered consistently enough to command a starting role, especially in matches of the derby’s magnitude.

Engels started brightly at Ibrox, showing composure on the ball and linking well in the opening 30 minutes. But as the intensity of the game increased, his influence waned, and he struggled to regain a foothold. Brendan Rodgers eventually made the decision to replace him in the second half as Celtic chased a route back into the game.

Speaking on Open Goal, Andy Halliday criticised Engels for failing to impose himself when it mattered. “First 20 minutes he was good, but then he fell out of the game,” he said. “An area where he is always good is his set pieces and they were poor yesterday, which isn’t like him.”

Halliday also questioned Engels’ off-the-ball contribution, particularly in contrast to Rangers’ midfielders. “As a midfielder, in the derby, you need to do more off the ball. He’s got good quality, a good right foot, but we’re talking about Raskin turning balls, intercepting balls – I don’t even remember Engels making a tackle.”

The critique highlights a recurring issue with Celtic’s midfield mix in big games. With Callum McGregor often forced to cover wide areas and deeper positions, the lack of a physical or disruptive presence in the middle has been exposed more than once this season.

Engels has had bright moments throughout the campaign and remains one of the club’s top young talents, but as the run-in continues and the Scottish Cup Final approaches, Rodgers may have decisions to make about who can truly handle the heat when it matters most.