Speaking exclusively to Football FanCast, former Celtic striker Frank McAvennie isn’t sure whether Callum McGregor can step up and replace Scott Brown as captain.
Following the recent confirmation that 35-year-old Brown will leave and join Aberdeen as a player-coach, the Hoops are in search of a new skipper for the first time since the midfielder took the reigns from Stephen McManus back in 2009.
Should Celtic have sold Scott Brown?
Yes
No
Only James Forrest and Tom Rogic have been with the Glasgow giants for longer than McGregor, who came through the ranks at Celtic Park, although McAvennie doesn’t seem convinced that the Scottish international has got what it takes to follow in Brown’s footsteps.
McGregor, whose the current vice-captain in Paradise, would appear the obvious choice to take the role, but that could quickly change when Celtic eventually appoint a replacement for Neil Lennon.
However, McGregor has worn the armband when Brown hasn’t available this season and would therefore be the favourite to replace Brown.
McAvennie told Football FanCast: “McGregor’s in there, but I’m not sure McGregor’s a captain. I don’t know if he’s got that pull.
“Paul McStay was quiet, he was the captain when I was playing, but he was quiet. But he did things in the park that would drag people through the game.
“Maybe Callum’s got that in him, but I think Soro and Turnbull might be the future, but I don’t know if they’re ready to make an assault on Europe.”
It was never going to be easy for whoever takes over from Brown, but given he’s the vice-captain, is relatively experienced and has only ever known Celtic, you’d be surprised not to see McGregor get the role, unless the Hoops make a shock summer signing.