BREAKING BAD

Fears are becoming reality for toiling champs... they’ve been papering over cracks for too long even star men are struggling to hold team together

CALLUM MCGREGOR miscued his first attempt at a clearance high into the tension-filled sky.

When the ball arrived back at his feet seconds later, the Celtic captain just hammered it anywhere in search of safety.

When the most composed individual in the entire squad is reduced to such uncharacteristic acts in a desperate attempt to get over the line, something is obviously awry.

Former Hoops boss Gordon Strachan described McGregor as irreplaceable.

In these two late instances as Celtic clung to a 1-0 lead, he was unrecognisable.

Brendan Rodgers talked after about nervousness. In terms of his captain, it had a look more of exasperation.

If that was the case, you can build no argument against McGregor.

As one of the select few who have carried the side through most of this season he's well within his rights to look around and wonder what the hell is going on.

McGregor has done so much heavy lifting this season, it's a wonder he's not out with a hernia. The same goes for Matt O'Riley who, like his skipper, was left clearing it anywhere towards the finale as he tried to plug gaps.

They are trying to cover for too many others who are simply just not up to it.

Eight wins in nine prior to kick-off is good on paper but performances have been unconvincing.