Callum endured excruciating pain in the aftermath of the last encounter with Rangers. As he gears up for a pivotal match that could define this season’s title race, the captain is determined to see Celtic inflict their own brand of suffering.
Reflecting on his journey back from injury, McGregor acknowledges that securing the flag this term would rank among his most significant accomplishments. He expresses confidence in Celtic’s current form, highlighting their readiness to seal the deal. Following his recovery from an Achilles injury, McGregor asserts that he is approaching peak condition at a crucial juncture.
Recalling the discomfort he endured in the previous derby clash at Ibrox, McGregor notes the stark contrast between then and now. Despite the risks, he and his team took a calculated gamble to field him in the match, a decision that ultimately paid off. Overcoming the challenges posed by the injury, McGregor persevered with resilience and caution, gradually regaining his form and mobility in the weeks that followed.
The resounding applause that greeted McGregor’s impressive intercepting run in a recent match against Hearts served as a testament to his progress and lifted the spirits of the fans. Embracing positive moments like these, McGregor emphasizes the importance of pushing through setbacks and focusing on the journey ahead.
With the worst of his injury behind him, McGregor now shifts his focus to inflicting pain on Rangers in the upcoming derby. As he prepares for his 38th derby experience, the skipper stands poised to play a crucial role in the much-anticipated clash.
Record Sport columnist and former Rangers captain Barry Ferguson believes that his former team must prevent the Celtic captain from dictating the game. However, McGregor insists that his team has multiple ways to cause trouble, stating, “That’s the idea. If they focus on me, someone else can step up and win the game for us!
Being praised in this manner is flattering. We have a system in place where if opponents try to shut down one player, we can exploit other areas.”
A win for Celtic would extend their lead by six points in the title race with just two games left, edging them closer to the trophy. McGregor recognizes the significance of the moment amid the challenges his team has faced this season.
He comments, “Everyone faces unique challenges. This season has been a back-and-forth for us. With three games left, if we can secure the title, it would rank among our top achievements. We’ve had to show resilience throughout the season—moments of difficulty, leading matches, losing control, and regaining it.”
Navigating through changes in management and player turnover takes time, but unity has been key for Celtic this season. McGregor emphasizes the importance of sticking together, especially as they approach the crucial stage of the season.
Confident in his team’s current form, McGregor adds, “We are performing well, and to maintain that, we must stick to the basics and show our best in every game. When new players join, we make it clear what the club expects—they must understand the pressure and deliver in crucial moments. Success is our goal.”
The expectations at Celtic are high, with winning being a norm rather than an option. McGregor acknowledges the seriousness of these expectations, noting that every encounter with fans reinforces the vital role players hold within the club.