Celtic captain Callum McGregor believes the squad are in a good place heading into next Sunday’s Premiership opener against St Mirren — but admits there’s still work to do as they aim to hit the ground running.
The Hoops concluded their pre-season schedule with a penalty shootout win over Al Ahly to secure third place in the Como Cup, adding to impressive victories over Sporting Lisbon and a commanding 4-0 demolition of Newcastle at Celtic Park. While the friendlies are done, the serious stuff begins now — and McGregor is under no illusions about what lies ahead.
Reflecting on the camp in Como, McGregor was pleased with how the group came through.
“Everybody getting minutes topped up — that’s exactly what we need fitness-wise. Everyone’s came through it in a positive place with no injuries, so that’s the main thing,” he told Celticfc.tv.
He praised the competitive spirit shown in the final game, highlighting how both sides “made a real go of it” and stressing the importance of building a “winning mentality” heading into the season.
McGregor was also keen to point out the benefits of working in top-class surroundings abroad, while reaffirming the quality Celtic already have at Lennoxtown.
“We’re lucky to see so many nice places and work at a high level. You see what other teams are doing and it helps you keep moving the club forward,” he said.
But now all attention turns to Sunday, where Celtic will raise the league flag before facing a typically stubborn St Mirren side.
“We know what type of game, they always give you a tough game. You’ve got to try and get on the front foot early and impose yourself,” McGregor said. “Let’s be fair, we’ve been here a million times. The players know what’s expected.”
Celtic go into the new season with questions still lingering over the transfer business. While Kieran Tierney’s return on a free is a statement signing, the club has yet to replace £16m man Nicolas Kühn, who joined Como earlier in the window.
Japanese duo Inamura and Yamada, striker Callum Osmand, and midfield arrival Benji Nygren offer promise — but McGregor and Rodgers will be demanding more reinforcements before the window slams shut.
Sunday’s Flag Day clash at Parkhead can set the tone. The preparation is done — now it’s time to deliver.
