Callum McGregor continues to go from strength to strength in Celtic colours after their 100% start to the new campaign.
Even at 31, the Celtic captain is running the show and ready to help Brendan Rodgers guide the team to another title.
Celtic beat Hibernian 2-0 on Sunday, with McGregor doubling his side’s lead after 20 minutes with a thunderous effort from outside of the box.
Towards the back end of the previous campaign, McGregor suffered an injury and was on the sidelines for a period of time.
But he still returned to guide Celtic to the Scottish Premiership title, before featuring in every game for Scotland during their dismal Euro 2024 display.
In total, McGregor played 45 games in all competitions, not including his games for his country, with the midfielder now retired from international duty.
You feel McGregor’s age, the number of games he has played and the fact that he will be 33 by the time the 2026 World Cup comes about is probably reasons behind his decision.
But McGregor’s call to retire has ‘upset’ James McFadden because he was shocked by his call, as he told Sky Sports Football (11/08/24 at 11:35 am).
In total, the nine-time title winner repped his country on 63 occasions and helped them to back-to-back Euros after a long period without competing at major tournaments.
Callum McGregor retires from Scotland duty
“At 31 years old, it was a shock,” said McFadden. “But the amount of games Callum McGregor has played, I totally understand the decision. He had an issue with his achilles towards the end of the season, which could tell you that it’s from the amount of games that he actually plays.
“I am still a little bit upset about it, I have to say because I still feel he has loads to offer. There is a World Cup, they could potentially qualify for and I know it has been back-to-back Euros.
“I just feel, it would have been nice to see him, for a campaign, see if he could get to the World Cup and then call it a day. It’s not an emotional decision, we know Callum McGregor is calculated in everything he does and is a consummate professional. I know the reason for it is to prolong his career. He feels it’s the best thing for him. Nobody could argue with that. If that’s what he feels, then he has made that decision and I know he isn’t one who is emotional, or else, he would have made that after the Euros. It’s disappointing because we are losing a massive player. A hugely influential player and a top-level player for Scotland. But Celtic will benefit from it.”
Celtic should dominate again
Two wins from two. Zero goals conceded. And six goals scored. Celtic are looking better than ever.
Last season, you could tell from the way the team was playing that they were still trying to get used to Rodgers’ style.
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But now they are playing like they did in the Irishman’s first spell, with the hope that Celtic secure the transfer of Adam Idah, as his transfer saga continues to rumble on.
Celtic have received a £25 million bid for Matt O’Riley, with it looking likely that he will head for the exit door, but for now, he is still performing out on the pitch.
Celtic’s bargain deal for Paulo Bernardo could prove to be even more significant because he could just be O’Riley’s replacement.
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