adminThere’s a familiar unease settling over Celtic Park again — the kind fans try to brush off at first, hoping it disappears on its own. But as the weeks pass, the same issues keep resurfacing. The same defensive cracks. The same difficult questions.
For all their attacking quality and flashes of brilliance, one major problem continues to haunt Celtic: their defence. It hasn’t just been the odd lapse — it’s been a consistent weakness.
That’s a sharp contrast to last season, when their back line was solid, dependable, and rarely rattled. This time, it’s been the opposite. Goals are coming too easily, leads don’t feel secure, and matches that should be under control often spiral into chaos.
In a tight title race, that kind of instability can be costly.
A big part of that uncertainty stems from the absence of Cameron Carter-Vickers. Without him, the defensive structure has looked unsettled. Partnerships have changed, roles have shifted, and any sense of rhythm has been lost. Constant adjustments have led to constant problems.
The numbers highlight the decline. Celtic conceded just 26 league goals last season — they’ve already let in 34 this time around. That’s not a slight dip; it’s a major drop in defensive standards.
There are reasons behind it. A difficult spell under Wilfried Nancy saw defensive discipline collapse, with 12 goals conceded in just six matches. But even beyond that period, something still feels off — something fundamental is missing.
And that’s where attention begins to shift toward solutions.
Behind the scenes, the focus is already turning to what comes next — how to fix the issue and who might help solve it.
One name quietly gaining attention is Dundee defender Luke Graham. It’s not a move that screams headlines, but it makes sense. Graham has been one of the Premiership’s most consistent performers this season — composed, reliable, and seemingly ready for a step up.
Celtic are believed to be monitoring him, although Rangers may currently be ahead in the race. A £1.5 million bid from Portsmouth earlier this year shows just how much interest he’s attracting.
His numbers back it up too — winning 65% of his duels and 70% of his aerial battles, offering the kind of defensive presence Celtic have been missing.
Dundee boss Steven Pressley didn’t hold back when comparing him to Jarrad Branthwaite, a player he previously worked with. He believes Graham has the potential to reach Premier League level — high praise that underlines his promise.
But while Celtic are looking at external reinforcements, there’s also growing excitement about a solution already within their ranks.
Benjamin Arthur.
The 20-year-old arrived quietly on loan from Brentford, without much attention or expectation. Initially, he looked like another squad player fighting for minutes.
Then he got his chance — and took it.
Strong performances against Aberdeen, Motherwell, Rangers, and Dundee United have changed perceptions. He’s no longer just a backup option; he’s emerging as a genuine contender.
Former manager Martin O’Neill has already suggested he “will be a player in time,” but early signs indicate that time might be closer than expected.
At 6’4”, Arthur brings physical dominance, composure on the ball, and impressive numbers — winning 82% of his duels and 87% aerially, even in a limited sample size.
There’s even been talk of a “young Virgil van Dijk” comparison — bold, perhaps risky, but a reflection of his potential.
All of this leaves Celtic at a crossroads.
Do they invest in a rising talent like Graham to strengthen immediately? Or do they trust in Arthur’s development and give him the platform to grow into that role?
Whatever the decision, one thing is clear: if Celtic want to regain control, stability, and success, the solution won’t come from their attack.
It has to start at the back.
admin
