The new Hoops boss wants team spirit at an all time high.
Celtic midfielder Callum McGregor has identified team-bonding as the key aim of the Hoops’ pre-season schedule, in an interview with celticfc.net.
The squad is currently in Slovenia as part of their preparations and training camps abroad have often been used as a way to bring players closer together.
“Team spirit is huge in the modern game; to have everybody fighting for each other, win for each other and work hard so that’s what we’re aiming to do for the next two weeks – get the team bonded and get as many training sessions and games in as we can,” said McGregor.
“That way we’ll start to understand what everyone’s about and what we want from each other.
“Things are fresh, it’s a new season and it’s fresh in everyone’s mind that we’re striving to go on and do better this year. You always see that when a new manager comes in – it is a fresh start for everybody and I don’t think it’s any different this time,” he added.
The two-week stay in Maribor is seen as the perfect opportunity for Brendan Rodgers to implement his methods and the likes of McGregor will be eager to prove they are fit for purpose.
Carrying out the tactical vision of the former Liverpool boss comes with a heavy demand on the players to be fit and disciplined.
The Northern Irishman has favoured a high-press, high-energy possession-based game throughout his managerial career and things will be no different at Parkhead.
In Celtic, Rodgers has inherited a young, hungry squad with a lot of talent who seem like the perfect students for his footballing lessons.
McGregor is one such rising star who has established himself as a vital part of the current squad but who will have to convince Rodgers of his worth in the coming weeks, with more transfer activity undoubtedly on the horizon.
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