Celtic captain Callum McGregor has been a pivotal player for club and country for more than a decade and continues to thrive no matter the surroundings.
Now up to 465 appearances in green and white, the 31-year-old is the standard bearer at Parkhead, leading from the front in the Bhoys’ quest for silverware.
McGregor has played a part in 22 trophies for Celtic. He is the fourth-most decorated player in the club’s illustrious history, and you wouldn’t put it beyond him shattering all records before he retires from playing.
Furthermore, he has always been a reliable presence in Scotland’s midfield, with 63 caps coming his way. The Lennoxtown graduate has featured in two major tournaments, regularly turning in consistent performances on the international stage.
Earlier today, confirmation arose, signalling that McGregor has now made a major career decision in relation to the Tartan Army.
Callum McGregor retires from Scotland duty, explains choice
Per Celtic’s official X account, McGregor has chosen to retire from Scotland duty after spending seven years in the fold.
Explaining how he came to make the choice, he told the club’s official website: “I have made a decision which was very difficult, of course, but a decision which I feel is the right one at the right time. It was very important I spoke to Steve and I did that this week to make him aware of my intentions. As I said to Steve, I just felt the time is right for me to move on from international football.
“It has been a huge honour to achieve 63 caps for my country, as appearing just once would have been a dream come true, so to achieve 63 and be inducted into the Roll of Honour at 50 caps is something I could only have dreamed of as a young kid.
“Throughout my career I wanted to make myself available for Scotland at all times and whenever selected, give the absolute maximum possible to help the country and represent the supporters with passion and pride.
“International football has been a really important part of my career where I have learned so much and achieved some incredible highs, that famous night in Serbia being one of the very best, and I have been blessed to share these experiences with some great people.
“Playing for Scotland always meant so much to me and reaching two major tournaments will always be a source of real pride, and scoring at Hampden in the Euros in front of our fantastic supporters will always be a special highlight for me.
“Of course, like many others I wish we could have gone further in these competitions but, nonetheless, it has been a privilege to have played for my country on such a stage and to have represented my country for such a long period.”
Callum McGregor’s international retirement benefits Celtic
Scotland fans will be sad to see McGregor go, but in many ways, it feels like the right time for his international retirement.
His injury problems last season led to him overcoming a season-ending scan, putting his own fitness on the line for club and country. Prevailing, the Glasgow-born midfielder spearheaded the charge for a domestic double and played every game for Scotland at Euro 2024.
Nevertheless, some dangers could’ve arisen amid his bravery. Now 31 years of age, he isn’t going to be around forever and has taken the step to prolong his club career.
That can only bode well for Celtic, who will reap the benefits of their captain enjoying some well-deserved rest while cheering on Scotland from afar.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
