Greg Taylor knows exactly what is needed inside a Celtic dressing room.
He may have moved on from the club, but the former Hoops defender still understands the value of keeping good characters and experienced voices around Lennoxtown, especially when squads can change quickly over the summer.
Taylor was asked about Celtic keeping hold of important figures, and he pointed straight to the new contracts for James Forrest, Luke McCowan and Liam Scales.
He said: (Clyde 1 Superscoreboard), “You’ve seen the three new contracts they got announced and it was James, Luke and Liam Scales. I think all were brilliant decisions. Brilliant players on the pitch, but vital in the changing room, vital on the training ground, driving standards, almost just being that backing voice to Callum.”
That is the bit that stands out. Callum McGregor is Celtic’s leader, and everyone knows the standards he sets. But no captain can do it all alone. You need other voices around him, players who understand the club, know the pressure, and can help keep the level high every day.
Taylor added: “I think them three guys in particular, it was easy decisions and I think it made sense.”
It is easy to judge contract extensions only on starts, goals, assists or minutes. But Celtic also need players who help the dressing room function properly. That becomes even more important when new signings arrive and need to settle into the demands of the club.
Taylor also spoke about his own move to Greece, admitting it has been a big adjustment after leaving Scotland.
He said: “It’s been a time of settling in, a whole different change for me, the first time I’ve moved away from home, so I’m excited to go back for pre-season and give it my best crack and see where next season takes me.”
That probably says plenty. Moving club, country and environment is not easy. Celtic will hope any new arrivals this summer settle quickly, and having the right people already in the building can make a real difference.
Taylor also confirmed he is preparing for an early European start at PAOK, saying: “I think we’re in the second round of Europa League qualifying. We had a disappointing result in the last game, which meant we’re not in Champions League qualifying. I think the first game is the 23rd of July, so an early start.”
For Celtic, Europe will again be a major part of the season. Martin O’Neill needs quality added to the squad, no doubt about that, but he also needs players who understand the club and can carry standards through a long campaign.
Taylor’s comments were not flashy, but they were telling. He knows what Celtic demands. And from the outside looking in, he clearly sees why keeping trusted players around McGregor makes sense.
