Callum McGregor has just proven how powerful his voice is in Celtic quarters.
With everyone talking about the post-split fixtures hitting the screens, McGregor proceeded to send a subtle message to the Celtic board by telling them to be more ‘ambitious’ if he wants them to sign a new deal.
There has previously been talk around McGregor’s future at Celtic, and ahead of the clash against Falkirk on Saturday evening, Darren O’Dea warned the club that they ‘aren’t ready’ for the man with the armband to leave.
“Well, I think, first of all, Callum McGregor has earned the right to speak, be honest and tell it how it is,” said O’Dea.
“I don’t think the team is ready to move on from Callum. I think Callum, maybe there is a slight message in it to say that he wants to ‘kick on’, and as you say, he doesn’t want another season like this.”
- READ MORE: Callum McGregor criticism sees Andy Halliday urge Martin O’Neill to reshape Celtic midfield
What are your thoughts on Callum McGregor’s strong comments on his Celtic future?
Darren O’Dea backs Callum McGregor after his message to the Celtic board
Yes, McGregor hasn’t been at his best this season, but nor have those around him, and that’s when Celtic’s recruitment comes into the picture.
It’s interesting to note that McGregor’s current deal expires in 2028, so there isn’t much to worry about on that front.
But as O’Dea rightfully pointed out, the retired Scotland international has ‘earned the right’ to say it like it is, as he told Sky Sports Football (25/04/26).
Eilidh Barbour: “Darren, some interesting comments this week from Callum McGregor in the build-up to this one. Talking about the club needing to be ambitious next season. He definitely doesn’t want another season like this one.
“But what did you make of the timing of it coming into these post-split fixtures?”
O’Dea: “Well, I think, first of all, Callum McGregor has earned the right to speak, be honest and tell it how it is.
“Likewise, this club has been fantastic for Callum McGregor. He has been here so long now that you can’t picture this club without him.
“But ultimately, that day will come. I don’t think the team is ready to move on from Callum. I think Callum, maybe there is a slight message in it to say that he wants to ‘kick on’, and as you say, he doesn’t want another season like this.
“Let’s be honest, they can still win the double this year, so this is Celtic in crisis winning the double, I would take it. Callum McGregor is a massive, massive part of it. I really do hope he stays.”
Nothing wrong with the ‘timing’ of McGregor’s comments
The question was raised by Eilidh Barbour on Sky, during the build-up to the Falkirk game, if there is an issue with the ‘timing’ of McGregor’s comments.
It needs to be noted that he didn’t go out of his way to make such a statement.
This comes after the likes of James Forrest signed a new Celtic deal, alongside Liam Scales and Luke McCowan, so he was rightfully asked if he’s next.
Plus, everyone is aware of how professional and dedicated to the cause McGregor is, and it’s not like he isn’t saying anything surprising.
Celtic need a clearout in the summer, major changes need to be made, including a new manager, and one of the most important men at the club is rightfully putting it out there that the correct steps need to be taken.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
