Neil Lennon pays unique compliment to Celtic's Callum McGregor

By John Reid

February 4, 2020

Celtic boss Neil Lennon has paid a unique compliment to Hoops midfielder Callum McGregor. He has described him as a ‘metronome’ – in other words the player who makes Celtic tick, and is the man who sets the ‘pulse’ for the team.

Lennon made the comment in an interview with Celtic TV.

“Callum’s just a metronome. He’s so consistent with his passing, his reading of the game, his play. He’s got goals this season as well.”

That is certainly high praise from Lennon, especially when you consider that he played in a similar midfield role to that which McGregor plays, although McGregor probably plays in more of an advanced role.

Scott Brown and Callum McGregor (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

However, Lennon’s comments show how vitally important that McGregor is to the current Celtic side. He is almost an ever-present for the Hoops, playing 41 games already this season.

Seems certain to hit double figures

As the Hoops boss indicates he does have goals, scoring eight so far this season. He seems certain to hit double figures, and that is a good return for a player who sometimes does the dirty work for his team in the middle of the park.

Callum McGregor opens the scoring for Celtic (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

McGregor’s importance to Celtic has only grown in the last few seasons. He was a key man for Brendan Rodgers, and is now one for Neil Lennon.

Signed long-term deal last year

It is no wonder that the club were eager to keep the player on a long-term contract, and that is exactly what happened in November, when McGregor signed a five-year deal with the Hoops.

That should ensure that any team that wants to buy McGregor will have to pay big money, but it also should also ensure that if he is still at the club then McGregor is the man to take over from Scott Brown as Celtic captain.

It is no wonder the Hoops were so keen to keep the player that makes the team tick.