Callum McGregor spoke after Celtic’s 4-0 win over Dundee United with a clear sense of satisfaction following Martin O’Neill’s return to the dugout.
The fixture carried added weight given the timing of O’Neill’s return earlier in the week. Celtic had little time to prepare but were able to fall into a familiar rhythm. McGregor’s role at the centre of the pitch allowed him to see how quickly the team adjusted.
There was a noticeable sharpness in Celtic’s play without the game becoming frantic. The side moved the ball with intent and stayed compact when possession was lost. That balance helped keep control of the contest without unnecessary risk.
For McGregor, the afternoon was about recognising standards rather than celebrating one result. He has been part of several transitions at the club and understands how fragile momentum can be. The focus stayed on what the performance represented rather than the scoreline alone.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “That’s exactly what we wanted. You know, that’s a Celtic team in terms of the way they play. Pressing, intensity, quick football, aggressive, scoring goals, clean sheets.
“So, a really good afternoon and now we recover, go again, and keep doing it.
“I think that’s it. We just sort of picked up where we left off. You know, the six weeks they were in were incredible. The team had a real bounce, playing with confidence and playing with clarity.
“And then it looked like we just picked up where we left off. And Jan gets a great goal to start us off. The football was excellent.
“The counter-pressing was superb. The game was almost played in half a pitch. So that’s the kind of dominance that we want. And now, like I say, we’ve just got to repeat that between now and the end of the season.”
The win offered a sense of familiarity for players who have worked under O’Neill before. Roles were clear and decisions looked instinctive rather than forced. That helped remove tension from the game early on.
McGregor’s comments reflected the wider mood inside the dressing room. There was relief at delivering a complete display rather than grinding through moments. Confidence can return quickly when players trust what is being asked of them.
O’Neill’s return has not been framed around sweeping change. The emphasis has been on standards and habits that players already understand. That approach appears to have landed well.
For McGregor, leadership means setting tone as much as words. His performance and message pointed in the same direction. Celtic now move forward knowing what is expected and what must be repeated.
