Brendan Rodgers has shared how he comforted Callum McGregor in the immediate aftermath of Celtic’s devastating penalty shootout defeat at Hampden, marking the skipper’s first cup final loss on the national stage.
The Celtic captain missed from the spot during the tense shootout, with Alistair Johnston eventually failing to convert the decisive penalty. McGregor, normally composed and resilient, was visibly emotional at full-time, carrying the weight of the moment after falling short in one of the rare Hampden disappointments in his decorated Celtic career.
Rodgers, speaking after the match, provided insight into the moment where he pulled his captain aside to attempt to lift his spirits. The Irishman was quick to shield McGregor from blame, instead pointing to the randomness that can define a penalty shootout.
He said: (TCW), “Well, he’s such a conscientious guy who gives so much to this club. As the skipper, he’s obviously so disappointed he hasn’t scored, but I was just reminding him what an incredible leader he is for this club.
“And he’s given so much to this season and to all the seasons that I’ve ever known him. Such an amazing guy.
“It’s unfortunate the keeper makes the saves. But no, he’ll come back in the summer stronger, fitter and ready to go again.”
The missed penalty will hurt, but McGregor has done so much for the club over the years. One moment doesn’t change how important he is to Celtic. Rodgers made it clear that the team still counts on him.
Now it’s about moving forward. McGregor and the rest of the squad will use this pain to push harder next season. The goal is simple—bounce back and win a treble next season.
No champers today?