The captain spoke openly following Wednesday evening's 2-2 draw with Dundee United about his team's lack of control and players playing out of position.

Sutton, who featured under current Celtic manager Martin O'Neill in the early 2000s, addressed McGregor's remarks, explaining that the skipper is continually left 'exposed' due to a lack of help in midfield.

He said (RecordSport): "Callum McGregor's comments after the Dundee United game were telling – even though I'd rather they had been kept in-house."

Sutton said the Celtic captain is unfairly criticised by fans, while struggling with the lack of cohesion and balance in the side.

He described the midfield as 'lightweight', noting the absence of defensive support from the wide players, leaving McGregor shouldering the burden during counter-attacks.

"McGregor is being criticised by the support as well but he’s been hung out to dry by the lack of cohesion and balance in the side," Sutton added.

"The midfield is so lightweight and there’s little or no defensive cover coming from the wide men, regardless of who plays there.

"It's no surprise he voiced his worries about it because he's the one carrying the can on the pitch and the one taking the flak.

"I wouldn't have imagined the manager taking to kindly to that one and it might be the same with McGregor.

"You get the feeling the captain is admitting problems and trying his best to find solutions."