CALLUM McGREGOR is hoping Celtic and 60,000 supporters can be a marriage made in Paradise in Saturday’s derby encounter.
The Hoops captain joined boss Brendan Rodgers, keeper Joe Hart and other team-mates who acknowledged the awesome backing from the sell-out crowd during the 3-0 romp over Hearts last weekend.
Parkhead was pulsating as the champions took a tricky Premiership hurdle without breaking their stride and, with only three games to go until they reach the finishing tape, the team are three points ahead as they zero in on their third successive title.
McGregor is eyeing a phenomenal NINTH league winner’s medal as he leads from the front in Celtic’s quest for their twelfth crown in 13 years.
SERIAL WINNER…Callum McGregor is chasing his ninth Premiership title.
Reflecting on Saturday’s performance on AND off the pitch, the 30-year-old inspirational midfielder said: “I’ve touched on it a lot that the supporters are vitally important for us.
“When the place is rocking, the football’s good. It’s very, very difficult to beat that atmosphere, it’s top level.
“It’s about the players getting the crowd going, starting the game quick and bringing the support into the game.
“And, if we do that, then we marry the two together and, hopefully, make it a difficult day for our opponents.”
Analysing the unique atmosphere of a coming together between the Glasgow foes, McGregor, speaking to Celtic TV, continued: “I love them. I think if you don’t enjoy them then you’re going to struggle to play at a big club like this.
“Over the years, you build up more experience – and when the games come around and you’re in the middle of it you have to enjoy it.
BEST FOOT FORWARD…skipper Callum McGregor in control.
“You’ve got to enjoy the fight, the battle of it and generally when you do that then you have positive experiences.”
McGregor added: “The performance against Hearts was excellent. There was a real good tempo, some great football being played, as well, and if it wasn’t for their keeper, Zander Clark, there may have been more.
‘So, confidence is good and we just focused on our training this week.
“We did that leading into the Hearts game and it’s the same message – just continue to focus on what you are doing, try and get better every day.”
Everyone seems perfectly happy – apart, perhaps, from the Noise Abatement Society!
