Callum McGregor spoke after Celtic’s Champions League play-off first-leg win over LASK, praising his teammates for their performance, but he isn’t getting carried away.
Four signings have been made this summer, and they all featured in the 3-0 win on Wednesday night. Camilo Duran stole the show with a brilliant brace, Mika Baur made his first start and was stellar, Kasper Hogh’s link-up play shone and Haissem Hassan was given a ten-minute cameo.
Replacing Arne Engels remains a priority. A deal couldn’t be struck for a midfielder before the play-off squad registration deadline, but players such as Gvidas Gineitis and Niko Sigur remain on the club’s radar.
Celtic now prepare for the deciding leg against the Austrian champions on Tuesday. McGregor knows the Hoops are in the driving seat as they look to return to the competition for the first time since the 24/25 season.
Speaking after the match, the captain made it clear that the harmony within the club will come through strong performances. He said (TNT Sports):
“That’s what we’re always working towards – trying to get the club into the Champions League.
“When you put in performances like that and the way we’ve started the season then the confidence grows.
“It’s our job to bring the atmosphere and bring the happiness. We got to a point at the end of last season where we brought that, the way that we finished.”
McGregor then took a moment to praise the new additions:
“It was always important that we try to strengthen from that position, and it looks like we’ve done that.”
The midfielder stressed that their quest for Champions League qualification is only half done. He continued:
“But it’s only small steps, I have to reiterate that. We’ve got a really tough game next week. If we come through that, everyone gets what they want in terms of Champions League football and then the whole thing can hopefully fly from there.”
While Celtic’s transfer activity has stepped up a gear, there remain areas within the squad that need to be addressed.
A left-back is required to provide cover for Kieran Tierney, the search for a goalkeeper remains, and at least one midfielder with athleticism and quality is required. Should they secure their spot in the Champions League, those are key components which would complement the current squad.
With no domestic game this weekend, the Hoops have six days to prepare for Austria. All focus will be on protecting their lead; an early goal would all but ensure their place back in Europe’s top club competition. McGregor will once again lead the side out as they embark on another European away day that bares the pressure of around £40 million.
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