Celtic captain Callum McGregor will be enjoying a different type of international break this time around as he kicks his feet up while Scotland are in action.
The 31-year-old opted to retire from duties with his country after holding discussions with Steve Clarke that culminated in his final decision.
McGregor couldn’t have started the campaign in better fettle. In four Scottish Premiership matches, he has scored three long-range strikes against Hibernian, St Mirren and Rangers, reaping the benefits of having less football to play.
Admitting his choice came as a result of being at the ‘right time’ in his career to make sure he prolongs his legacy, it is clear that Celtic will be the ones to benefit following years of his tireless endeavour at both club and international level.
Now, Aston Villa’s John McGinn has highlighted why the Tartan Army will miss his influence in the engine room.
John McGinn on Callum McGregor’s international retirement
Speaking to The Daily Record, McGinn has paid tribute to McGregor’s brilliant professionalism and believes his absence offers up the chance for someone else to step into his shoes.
He stated: “It’s not taken me by surprise. Cal’s not had a break in the summer for years. How he’s managed to do what he’s done is a credit to him. He’s a great professional, great teammate. And I’m sure if his body allowed him to carry on, he probably would have.
“He was passionate to play for Scotland. The way he’s playing, the way he’s shooting from outside the box every game and finding the top corner, it’s certainly going to be a big loss for us.
“So it’s been great to play alongside him but Cal’s made his call and we respect it and support him. And hopefully someone could step up in his place.”
It pains me to say it, but McGregor is 31 now and isn’t getting any younger. In light of this, giving himself a few breaks during the season to recover puts him at the least risk of suffering injury concerns, something he battled through last season to lead the way in Celtic’s title fight.
Scotland’s focus now turns to his potential replacement. Ryan Gauld has been called into their squad; meanwhile, Lennon Miller is a fine prospect brewing away at Motherwell.
In future international camps, one wonders if a certain Luke McCowan could enter the equation should he manage to gain regular minutes at the reigning Scottish champions.
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