Celtic star under scrutiny as Charlie Mulgrew delivers honest verdict after Hibs game

Charlie Mulgrew has raised concerns about Dane Murray’s defensive experience after the Celtic youngster’s display against Hibernian at Easter Road.

Martin O’Neill’s side secured a hard-fought victory in difficult conditions, but Murray’s performance has prompted further discussion about his development and readiness for regular first-team football.

The centre-back made his fifth consecutive start for Celtic, marking the longest run of senior appearances in his career at Parkhead. However, opinions remain divided among supporters over whether he is ready to fulfil his potential at the highest level.

For former Celtic defender Mulgrew, the main concern is Murray’s ability to deal with direct balls and organise the defence in dangerous situations.

Charlie Mulgrew explains his concerns about Dane Murray

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Mulgrew suggested that modern academy football might not adequately prepare young defenders for the physical and tactical demands of senior matches.

He explained that young players are often accustomed to teams building from the back and keeping possession, rather than regularly defending long balls, crosses and diagonal passes into dangerous areas.

Mulgrew believes that difference can leave inexperienced defenders learning important lessons while playing for a team with Celtic’s expectations.

Discussing the goal Celtic conceded against Hibs, he argued that Murray needed to take greater responsibility for organising those around him and responding to the developing threat.

The former Hoops defender said: “Dane Murray, for me, has got to take charge of the situation for the Hibs goal. As a centre-back, your job is to sense danger.”

Mulgrew suggested Murray could have positioned himself differently, blocked the delivery or instructed teammate Donovan to adjust his position to prevent Hibs from exploiting the situation.

He also pointed to Cameron Carter-Vickers as an example of the experienced defender who would naturally take control in such circumstances.

Mulgrew added that Murray was effectively learning while playing in Celtic’s first team, something he considers a concern given the pressure on the club to win matches consistently.

He warned that Celtic cannot afford to find themselves trailing too frequently, particularly when competing for important results.

Dane Murray faces another test at Celtic

Despite Mulgrew’s criticism, Murray has continued to receive opportunities under O’Neill, with his recent run of starts providing valuable experience at senior level.

The defender has also been asked to fill in at right-back on several occasions this season, including during the closing stages against Hibs when Alistair Johnston was forced off through injury.

That versatility could prove useful as Celtic navigate their fixture schedule, although Murray’s ability to develop his defensive awareness will remain an important talking point.

With Celtic under pressure to deliver results, Murray’s challenge will be to turn the experience gained from these appearances into greater confidence, stronger decision-making and improved organisation at the back.