BRENDAN RODGERS hailed the performance of Callum McGregor in the goalless draw with Dinamo Zagreb in Croatia last night.
The Celtic skipper put in his usual steady and influential display as the team picked up what could be a crucial point in their bid to gatecrash the Champions League play-offs in February next year.
It was also 31-year-old McGregor’s 100th European appearance, with only evergreen James Forrest and predecessor Scott Brown having played more times at that level for the Hoops.
Rodgers was quick to acclaim the attributes of his middle-of-the-park influencer which are so beneficial to the team on matchday and the entire squad off the pitch.
The gaffer, speaking to Celtic TV, said: “Callum coaches really well within the game and he’s that reference for the team.
GREAT DANE…Kasper Schmeichel leaps to turn over a Dinamo Zagreb effort late in the game.
“His experience allows you to control the game and he did very well in that aspect.
“He’s a brilliant player for this squad, a great captain and congratulations to him.”
Rodgers also took the time to applaud 38-year-old keeper Kasper Schmeichel who made an athletic tip-over stop in the 80th minute to prevent the hosts from taking an undeserved lead and possibly leaving the Hoops empty-handed after a fine showing.
The Irishman added: “It was an important save for us, especially towards the end of the game.
“Kasper’s a top goalkeeper. When he was needed he made an important save for us.”
