Steve Clarke reacts to Callum McGregor Scotland retirement as focus is put on Celtic

Add as preferred source on Google

Callum McGregor is stepping back from his international career with Scotland to focus on performing for Celtic.

McGregor has been a mainstay in the Scotland midfield for years, racking up 63 caps and representing his country at two major tournaments.

Now, he’s explained the time is right for him to hang up his boots on the international scene in what should be seen as a boost for the Bhoys.

McGregor will get critical periods of rest throughout the season, helping him recover mentally and physically. Celtic can only really benefit from that, as much as the player will miss performing for Scotland.

National boss Steve Clarke has described the Celtic star as a ‘catalyst’ for his team but understands the big decision.

Steve Clarke on Callum McGregor

The Scotland manager said [Scottish FA]: “Callum’s consistency of performance and leadership qualities have been a real catalyst in the team’s return to major tournaments.

“He has been a driving force in the middle of the park and in many ways is a coach’s dream: he is low maintenance, leads by example and sets the highest standards every day in training and in matches.

“That professionalism and dedication has been a huge influence in our squad. We had a very good chat and while I am disappointed to lose Callum’s qualities I can understand the rationale behind his decision.

“He will be missed by his team-mates, the coaches, the backroom staff and, of course, the fans. I would like to thank him for all that he has contributed and helped us achieve.”

This decision will help extend McGregor’s Celtic career

It hasn’t gone unnoticed that McGregor is starting to pick up more injuries now than he did in the early part of his Celtic career.

Achilles and calf issues have been a problem and the captain put in a superhuman effort to recover early from a debilitating injury last season in time for the club’s trophy push.

This is a smart decision on McGregor’s part as he enters a new phase of his career as elder statesman at Celtic.

He may now be 31 but we hopefully have plenty more years left of McGregor leading the Celtic team to more successes.