IT’S official – Callum McGregor is the new Celtic captain as he takes over the honour from long-serving Scott Brow following his summer departure to Aberdeen.
The 28-year-old Scotland international midfielder will be the team’s onfield leader and is clearly seen as a pivotal player in the revamp.
Ange Postecoglou said: “Callum is a player who leads by example, both on and off the park, and he is a key figure in our squad.
“He has been at Celtic since he’s been a boy, he’s come through our Academy, had a loan spell away from the club to gain vital experience, and then returned to establish himself in the first team. His qualities as a player are there for all to see and that has been evident over the past few years.
UNITED WE STAND…Callum McGregor is the model professional.
“He knows what it takes to be a successful Celtic player and he knows what it means to captain this club. I’m delighted that he will be wearing the armband and leading the squad going forward.”
McGregor, speaking to the club website, added: “To be the Celtic captain is a great honour for any player and to be given the captaincy is a very proud moment for me and my family.
“I know I’m following in the footsteps of some great names in the club’s history and I’ve been able to learn from one of the best in Scott Brown over the past few years.
“I’m delighted that the manager has put his trust in me by giving me the captain’s armband. It’s a new era for the club and I’m looking forward to playing my part in that.”
THE CAPTAIN…Callum McGregor with the treasured armband.
Ronny Deila handed McGregor his debut on July 15, 2014 in a Champions League qualifier against KR Reykjavik in Iceland and the youngster marked the occasion by scoring the only goal of the encounter.
He has gone on to make 326 appearances, scoring 53 goals and winning 4 trophies – six titles, four Scottish Cups and four League Cups.
McGregor has been capped 34 times by his country while claiming one strike, the equaliser just before the interval against Croatia in the Euro Finals last month. Unfortunately, there was no reward as the opponents scored two in the second period to win 3-1 at Hampden.
The anchorman has his sights set on a quickfire return to the national stadium in the new season – with a happier outcome, of course.
