But for so much of the first half, the centre of their midfield was barely relevant, unable to reveal any persuasiveness of touch or thought that might relieve the strain on a team struggling to break down resolutely defensive opponents.
Taken at face value, Celtic’s 3-0 win over Aberdeen on Saturday afternoon spoke of a great competitive divide.
But for so much of the first half, the centre of their midfield was barely relevant, unable to reveal any persuasiveness of touch or thought that might relieve the strain on a team struggling to break down resolutely defensive opponents.