Celtic are in the final stages of the international break, though some of their players have remained at Lennoxtown instead of heading off to represent their respective countries.
Due to being a long-term absentee, Japanese midfielder Reo Hatate missed out on the opportunity to travel to help the Samurai Blue record a 1-0 victory over North Korea last week; however, Daizen Maeda featured for 90 minutes during the affair.
Nevertheless, the positive news is that Hatate came through a bounce game against St Mirren as he steps up his recovery from a spate of injury problems which have limited his involvement this season.
Club captain Callum McGregor has also been unavailable for our last few matches due to a calf/Achilles problem, though Brendan Rodgers did deliver a promising update on his situation a couple of weeks ago.
The Irishman stated: “The level that he brings the game to is beyond what a lot of our players can do. Fingers crossed again, we can get to the bottom of that, and he’ll be available after the international break.”
McGregor has been an influential presence once again for Celtic this campaign, registering two goals and five assists in 36 appearances across all competitions [Transfermarkt].
Once the summer rolls around, the 30-year-old will be expected to take up a place in Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad as they travel to Germany for EURO 2024 despite missing out on his latest group to recuperate.
Neil Lennon drops verdict on Celtic captain Callum McGregor
Former Celtic manager Neil Lennon knows more than most regarding the extent of McGregor’s ability to control the engine room, given that the two enjoyed a fruitful relationship during the Irishman’s second spell in charge at Parkhead.
Speaking on PLZ Soccer, the 52-year-old has warned Scotland boss Clarke ahead of EURO 2024, claiming that room should be made for McGregor to re-enter the Tartan Army’s midfield for their opening clash against Germany on June 14th.
Discussing Scotland’s extensive midfield depth, Lennon also mentioned that Ryan Christie could be the man to make way for McGregor’s arrival in their starting line-up.
He stated, “In the opening game, Callum McGregor has to play for me. Whether he leaves an attacking option on the bench like Christie, you’ve still got that to call upon during the game.”
Whether it be for club or country, the Celtic skipper always shows up and has an exciting opportunity to mix it with the footballing in the summer.
Before then, he will be keen to finish the campaign on a high by leading the charge for two trophies at Parkhead.
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