Celtic trio receive Scotland recognition as Steve Clarke begins life without Callum McGregor

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Celtic captain Callum McGregor’s decision to retire from international duty with Scotland made headlines across the country earlier this month.

The 31-year-old was an important player during his time with the Tartan Army. He featured in two major tournaments and scored three times in 63 caps, leading from the front with his tenacious displays.

Nevertheless, McGregor has called time on his involvement with the national side, informing Steve Clarke of his desire to let someone else step into his shoes.

It is no secret that the Celtic midfielder suffered his fair share of injury issues last season. Incredibly, he overcame a season-ending scan to force his way back into contention during the run-in and then made the plane to Germany for Euro 2024.

McGregor’s commitment to the cause for club and country cannot be questioned. Still, he isn’t getting any younger, so it made sense to call it quits with Scotland.

That hasn’t stopped Clarke from calling up three of his Celtic teammates for their Nations League clashes against Poland and Portugal next month.

Celtic trio included in Scotland squad for double-header

Earlier today, the Scotland squad for their upcoming double-header against Poland and Portugal was revealed via the national team’s official X account, with Greg Taylor, James Forrest and Anthony Ralston making the cut.

Taylor and Forrest have both started Celtic’s opening four matches of the campaign in all competitions, putting on a series of encouraging performances that have contributed to the Bhoys’ positive start to the season.

Ralston has also made an impact from the bench, scoring on Flag Day against Kilmarnock in a 4-0 victory for his side. Scotland take on Poland first on September 5th at Hampden Park before travelling to face Portugal in Lisbon three days later in Nations League ‘League A’ Group 1 action.

Croatia are the other hopeful vying for a place in the competition’s quarter-finals. The Tartan Army will face them in October at Dinamo Zagreb’s Stadion Maksimir.

Hopefully, the three Celts in action can make a marked impression on international duty before returning to Lennoxtown free of any injury concerns.