Martin O’Neill was full of praise for Callum McGregor after the Celtic captain once again delivered when it mattered most in Sunday’s Premier Sports Cup semi-final victory over Rangers at Hampden.
It was a vintage moment from the skipper, who has made a career out of rising to big occasions for club and country. His leadership, composure, and technical quality stood out in a tense and emotionally charged match, one that tested Celtic’s resolve to the limit.
O’Neill, back in the Celtic dugout as interim manager for his second game in charge, has quickly seen what generations of supporters already know, that McGregor is the heartbeat of this team. The Irishman managed some of Celtic’s most influential midfielders in his first spell at the club, and he was quick to place McGregor in that same bracket after watching him drag his side to victory.
He said: (BBC Sport), “Then Callum McGregor comes up with a phenomenal goal for us from a phenomenal player and Callum won us the game.
“When he learns to play centre-forward, he will be a player.”
O’Neill’s comments showed both respect and a touch of humour, typical of the experienced manager. He made it clear how much McGregor means to this Celtic side. The captain’s goal not only put his team back in front but also lifted everyone around him, giving the players fresh belief when Rangers were beginning to grow into the game.
McGregor has built a reputation for producing big moments when Celtic need him most, and this was another example. His work-rate never dropped, even deep into extra time, and his leadership both on and off the ball helped drive the team over the line.
For O’Neill, it was a clear reminder of why strong leadership is so important in this squad. Having managed great captains in the past, he recognised that same determination and winning attitude in McGregor that has long defined successful Celtic teams.
The result not only secured a place in the final but also reinforced McGregor’s role as the heartbeat of this side. O’Neill’s praise was deserved, a nod of approval from one Celtic great to another who continues to lead by example.
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