“Everyone makes mistakes, everyone has off nights,” Captain defends Kasper

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The Celtic Star

·20 febbraio 2026

“Everyone makes mistakes, everyone has off nights,” Captain defends Kasper

Celtic captain Callum McGregor has backed goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel following criticism of his two errors in last night’s 4-1 defeat against German side VfB Stuttgart…

Callum McGregor arrives at Celtic Park ahead of the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Knockout Play-off First Leg match between Celtic FC and VfB Stuttgart at Celtic Park on February 19, 2026. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

The experienced Dane has faced scrutiny in recent weeks and endured a disastrous night in the Europa League, with questions raised over his involvement in at least two of the four goals conceded.

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Schmeichel was unable to deal with Stuttgart’s first and third strikes that many felt were within his capabilities of saving, with neither strike particularly well placed or powerful.

Schmeichel’s performance came shortly after further criticism despite Celtic’s 3-2 victory over Kilmarnock at the weekend, as well as other recent matches such as Utrecht and theRangers at Celtic Park However, McGregor stressed that responsibility for the result rests with the entire squad rather than any one player.

The Celtic skipper also expressed confidence that the 39-year-old will recover from the setback and continue to contribute positively in the weeks ahead.

Jamie Leweling of VfB Stuttgart scores his team’s third goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Knockout Play-off First Leg match between Celtic FC and VfB Stuttgart at Celtic Park on February 19, 2026. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

Speaking via TNT Sports, McGregor said: “Everyone makes mistakes, everyone has off nights. Kasper has been amazing since he has come to the club, a really big part of our success, and a big player in the dressing room for us.”

“He will dust that down and go again. We are all the same, everyone is all in together. We win as a team and we lose as a team. There is no blame in terms of any of the players looking at him. He has made so many big saves for us and he will bounce back for sure.”

Kasper Schmeichel at fault for at least two of the Stuttgart goals in the the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Knockout Play-off First Leg match between Celtic FC and VfB Stuttgart at Celtic Park on February 19, 2026. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

McGregor added: “I think they scored at good times. I don’t think it was a 4-1 game. When we look at the game back, we had some really good moments.”

“The goals came at good times for them and it actually kills any momentum that we are getting in the game. The third goal is the one that kills us.”

“We started the second half really well and looked to get back level, and the third one kills us. We have to keep going and keep fighting.”

“There are so many big games; that won’t define the season in terms of what we are trying to do now. There is a big focus on Sunday and then obviously when we go there next week, we have to try and claw some pride back.”

"We win as a team and we lose as a team" Callum McGregor reflects on Celtic's tough 4-1 defeat to Stuttgart... 🎙️ @Becky_Ives_ 📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK
– giovedì 19 febbraio 2026