As Scotland finished off their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign with an incredible 3-3 draw with Norway, Celtic captain, Callum McGregor, impressed once more for the national side when it mattered.
The Celtic captain has been an ever-present in Steve Clarke’s side and it is little wonder after watching him boss the Hampden midfield once more.
The Hoops man has a lot of good memories playing for both Scotland and Celtic at the national stadium and last night, he capped off a successful campaign with the Scots with another impressive performance for his country.
And the national media in Scotland love it. From being called ‘exceptional’ to being lauded for his ‘incisive passing’, McGregor earned deserved praise from the media.
The Scotsman: “The one home player who showed impressive composure in a scatty, see-saw first half, the Celtic captain proved once again he is a lynchpin of Steve Clarke’s set-up, however he configures his central area. 7”
The Herald: “Total composure in central midfield. Controlled the game at points with effective running and incisive passing to drive Scotland forward. An absolute no-brainer for next year’s finals squad.”
Glasgow Live: “Started really well and it was his shot that won the penalty. Opened his attacking side this international break and he’s been exceptional.”
The Sun: “Celtic skipper was quickly into his stride with some purposeful passing in another energy-sapping display. Was unlucky when a cross deflected off him for Norway’s second.”
Indeed, this isn’t the first time McGregor has impressed whilst on international duty with Scotland. Against England, he was the only player to get pass marks as Gareth Southgate’s side taught us a lesson at Hampden in October.
McGregor has also been impressing for Celtic in the Champions League this season as well. According to UEFA stats, the Hoops captain is one of the hardest-working players in the competition despite Brendan Rodgers’ side’s unfortunate position in Group E.
And how Steve Clarke is going to need him in Germany. Lumped into pot three after last night’s draw, Scotland have the potential to face England, Germany, France, Spain and Portugal.
Which means that the Scottish media are correct, it is a ‘no brainer’ that McGregor will be in the squad for next summer’s finals.
In other news, Luis Palma worry after Celtic winger picks up a ‘slight injury’ on international duty