Callum McGregor misses Celtic training two days out from Rangers Old Firm clash amid injury worries
THERE was no sign of Callum McGregor at training at Lennoxtown today ahead of Sunday's Old Firm clash against Rangers at Celtic Park.
The Hoops skipper has been withdrawn early against both St Mirren and Hibs as he manages what has been called a 'minor calf problem'.
Brendan Rodgers has previously said "we don't take risks with the captain" and he's indicated that again today by letting him sit out the Friday session ahead of the third league Old Firm clash of the season.
McGregor has played a huge amount of games in his career and the need to manage an Achilles/calf problem was held up as a major reason for him announcing his decision to quit Scotland.
But SunSport understands that the midfielder IS expected to train tomorrow and if there's no ill effects is set to take his place in the Hoops starting line-up as usual.
He's been given the nod to do media duties ahead of the game as usual.
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McGregor has a habit of turning it on in Scottish football's biggest grudge match although there were signs that Philippe Clement was getting to grips with his influence in the 3-0 win at Ibrox in January.
One Celtic star who is definitely fit again is James Forrest, although the veteran Scotland winger hasn't played since the Premier Sports Cup final against Rangers in December.
There was no sign of Liam Scales in the Ireland squad yesterday as the centre back battles what is believed to be a cheekbone injury.
Assuming he makes it, stopping McGregor is likely to be integral to interim Rangers boss Barry Ferguson's strategy.
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Whether this is man marking or something else, it's something McGregor is well used to.
He has previously said: “Of course, you understand the game.
“So at some point you have to give up something. If it’s man-marking certain players, there has to be space somewhere else.
“It’s then about bypassing that and finding a different solution.
“’It’s the same in every game. There are teams in the league who’ll try certain things to stifle you, whether it’s the build-up or trying to force the ball wide."
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