The Masked Destroyer

On the latest Huddle Breakdown podcast (please subscribe), @celtic_martin asked a seemingly flippant question “Statistically, is McGregor better with or without the mask?”.

Now, while the wearing of the mask may, in our heads, bestow magical super powers (“What!!!!! It’s Callum McGregor under that mask, I thought it was you, Masked Destroyer?”), the prosaic reality is that it is probably more a hindrance to performance in terms of comfort and impact on peripheral vision.

However, the mask wearing does coincide with the period post 2021, after the break and since new signings have arrived.

This period coincides with Celtic averaging around 0.52 xG against per game from open play and 0.09 xG against from set plays. In short, Celtic have been defensively tighter.

Much of this could simply be time on the training ground, familiarity with Postecoglou’s shape and positioning requirements. Add in the improving understanding between a very new group of players, and Celtic are potentially displaying the growth pattern of a well-coached side.

But back to McGregor’s role as each individual player is a fascinating sub plot to this evolving picture.

Let’s look at his Defensive contribution.

This is measured by Defensive Action Success Rate and Possessions Won from Defensive Actions. Both aggregated measures using only defensive actions.

The current season is highlighted split pre and post January break.

Before the break McGregor’s defensive performances were aligned with previous seasons and trending towards more defensive action as you would expect as he is more regularly in the 6 position as opposed to further forward.

Since January his defensive action success and possession won back has taken a huge leap forward (and this is a sample of 13 appearances and 1032 minutes so passes my 900-minute benchmark for significance).

The volume of challenges has increased. Pre January he was involved in 7.03 per 90m and post January that has gone up to 8.89. A 26% increase in defensive action volume.

McGregor is engaging in a higher volume of defensive actions, and being more successful in them as well. Is his transformation from attacking midfielder into a defensive 6 complete?

So, Martin, a great question! Perhaps the mask has bestowed on McGregor new defensive super powers.

Or, more prosaically, perhaps the captain is adapting his role to the demands of Postecoglou’s midfield anchor.