Few footballers play as often as Celtic’s Callum McGregor.
At a club which plays in four different competitions, McGregor remains essentially ever-present. This is extremely demanding fitness-wise.
Last year, after discussions with Steve Clarke and Brendan Rodgers, McGregor announced his retirement from international football. Given that he was just 31 at the time and a Scotland regular, the news was a surprise.
Unsurprisingly, the main reason behind the decision was to give the Celtic man more recovery time to preserve his body. But fast forward 18 months, and Scotland have qualified for the World Cup.
Like everyone in Clarke’s squad, McGregor has never played at football’s biggest tournament. So the question must be asked: could he be tested?
Celtic’s Callum McGregor on Scotland retirement
McGregor last played for his country at EURO 2024, where he started each of Scotland’s three matches.
At the prior tournament, the Hoops midfielder scored the nation’s first major tournament goal of the 21st century.
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It’s hard not to feel like there must be a voice in the back of the Celtic captain’s head, asking what could transpire if he makes him available for the tournament in North America next summer.
After helping the Celts to a 2-1 win away to Hibs, McGregor was asked about the possibility.
He said: “To be honest, it’s not something I’ve thought of. The guys have done amazing, they qualified in the last international break.
“I’ve got a lot of good team-mates and good friends in there, so I’m so happy for them. And for me, I just want to concentrate on the job I’ve got here with Celtic.
“I don’t want to get drawn into anything like that.
“I’ve got a really big job here with the change of manager soon.
“I’ll just keep trying to play well and help the team and whatever will be, will be.”
Scotland’s midfield is competitive, with the likes of Billy Gilmour and Lewis Ferguson being afforded more opportunities since McGregor’s retirement.
But Clarke’s trust in him makes it pretty certain that he has a spot on the plane if he wants one.
Celtic players in Scotland contention
Kieran Tierney’s fitness struggles have prevented him from appearing in some crucial games through his Scotland career, but his iconic winner against Denmark made it all worth it.
Anthony Ralston has become a reliable presence in Clarke’s squads too. He is one game off 25 caps.
As for Celtic’s other Scottish players, there are fewer opportunities. James Forrest seems to have fallen out of favour despite not yet retiring, whilst Luke McCowan has never been called up for his country.
A possible wildcard for selection next summer could be Colby Donovan, who has broken onto the scene from nowhere this campaign. The 19-year-old currently features for Scott Gemmill’s under-21s.
Would it be the right decision for Callum McGregor to return to the Scotland squad for next summer’s World Cup?
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