Celtic captaincy is the ultimate honour but Ange Postecoglou's choice is obvious - Amy Canavan

These six men have worn the captain’s armband for Celtic in the 21st Century. But, who is next in line?

Captaincy is the ultimate honour. No longer is one simply a player for their club, they are a symbol, an icon, an ambassador. This position almost instantly, however, brings about a rapid rise in reliability, resilience and responsibility.

And this is why it is absolutely crucial, that Ange Postecoglou, gets this decision spot on.

My Billy McNeill, my Paul McStay has just left the building – and of course, I am referring to Scott Brown. My generation’s mainstay.

The boots he has left behind to fill are massive. That was always going to be the case when the time came. But, that void seems to be even larger on the back of the catastrophes that transpired last season.

Player confidence is at a 10-year low. Not in the stands (yet), but fans are acutely aware from their sofas, that team unity has been all but non-existent for near enough a year. And, for the first time in what feels like an eternity, the Hoops find themselves heading into a new season, as title-chasers – not holders.

Perhaps this is a little harsh on Postecoglou. From the glimpses we’ve seen of him at work in training – via the impressive ‘mic’d up’ training session – it does appear that the Australian has rejuvenated some of the lost confidence in this Celtic side.

Of course, authority in the dugout is paramount. Similar to that upstairs – which Dom McKay seems to be taking care of. Yet when it comes to matchday, their influence is limited and instead, attention turns to the captain.

The pressure of playing for Celtic is consuming. Some crumble and collapse. Unable to cope within the cauldron.

Others just simply get it. Even thriving upon the expectations that envelop them when the jersey is adorned.

It is someone of the latter kin who must fill the vacant position.

Capable of ensuring that composure and control is presented on the park at all times, experienced enough to be accountable for actions and crucially, be the model of excellence expected at a club the size and stature of Celtic.

Now, more than ever, steady leadership is imperative and for me, there is only one man for the job.

Stand up, Callum McGregor.

The natural heir to the armband. Some may say obvious, due to previously filling-in as captain in the absence of Brown. Or perhaps due to the similar role he plays on the park, to that of his former defensive-midfield partner. Perhaps even for a select section of the support, the determining factor could be that Celtic, runs through his veins.

It would be ludicrous to suggest that these factors don’t play any part at all in the decision - they certainly make it pretty on the eyes for the Celtic faithful. Albeit, it is the overriding professionalism that McGregor oozes, which should make this an indisputable decision for Postecoglou.

Callum McGregor

Consistency is key and over the past few years, you will not find a more consistent contributor across Europe, than McGregor. He amassed over 4300 minutes last season for Celtic, in addition to over 950 minutes for Scotland – frightening figures which have become the norm recently.

The point of pressure mounting from the support had long gone – replaced by frustration and disbelief. One man was consistently pushed out to the press, and you guessed it, that man was Callum McGregor. Coated in his own exasperation, he accepted that things simply weren’t good enough from he and his teammates. Never did he shy away from the criticism that unfolded. Courage on show in-front of every camera.

The importance of communication is indescribable. What is a captain if they cannot rile their teammates up, pass on the manager’s messages or instil composure amongst their own? McGregor’s experience here is vital. We’ve seen him deliver the talk in ‘The Huddle’, spur his team on when the going gets tough (plenty experience in this field last campaign) and all done so in a composed yet confident manner.

READ MORE: What is life at Celtic really like when a new manager takes charge?

McGregor is a cool player. Perhaps not the most stylish, with various tattoos or a snazzy haircut, but cool in an even-tempered manner. Never the animate.

Patience is proving to be predominant in the early days of Ange Postecoglou’s tenure. If it be lack of players, backroom staff or the announcement of his captain – all are taking time.

It is indispensable that Postecoglou produces the right call on this one. He needs to put a stamp on his side and naming his club captain will be one of the boldest moves he makes.

There’s an assurance with Callum McGregor – you know what you’re getting. But above all else, he’s earned this.

Only 30 men have had the captain’s armband of Celtic Football Club wrapped around their bicep since 1888. Talismanic, driven and legendary figures in the history of the club. Now it’s time for a new legend to be born.