When Callum McGregor took over the skipper's role at Celtic, some detractors weren't so sure he was up to the task.
Scott Brown's exit was inevitable in retrospect but at the time it was a massive shock to see the man synonymous with every Celtic success since 2007 finally depart for Aberdeen.
There have rarely been bigger boots, or indeed a bigger armband, to fill. And no matter who filled them questions would be asked.
McGregor was the obvious choice but a section of the support believed he lacked the leadership required.
But there's little doubt how much his current role means to him – especially after a moment you may have missed from Pittodrie.
Kyogo Furuhashi gave Celts the lead early doors but a looping Lewis Ferguson header stunned Ange Postecoglou's men.
Facing yet more dropped points after damaging results against Rangers, Livingston and Dundee United in September, the Hoops needed a winner badly.
Portuguese loan star Jota popped up with just that and almost every green and white jersey flocked to the Benfica man to celebrate.
All but one – as captain McGregor instead headed for the other corner where the travelling Celtic support were in raptures.
Fists pumping, his emotion was clear to see even from high up in the Richard Donald Stand of Pittodrie.
McGregor's recent absence has been sorely felt in the recent slump in results and his dedication to the cause is unwavering after penning a mammoth five-year deal.
By the end of it he'll be running Brown himself close in time served at Parkhead.
