Callum McGregor’s belief in Celtic’s superiority over Rangers was made crystal clear in the lead-up to last season’s League Cup final, and newly released footage shows the skipper didn’t hold back in the dressing room.
The Celtic captain delivered a powerful speech to his teammates ahead of the Hampden showdown, making it clear he felt the Hoops possessed a level of quality their city rivals simply couldn’t match. His words came in the moments before a dramatic 3-3 draw that was eventually settled by penalties.
In a chaotic final under the lights at Mount Florida, it was Kasper Schmeichel who emerged the hero. The veteran keeper denied Ridvan Yilmaz from the spot, setting up Daizen Maeda to fire home the winning penalty and secure the first trophy of the campaign for Brendan Rodgers’ side.
McGregor’s rallying cry, now made public through Celtic TV cameras, reveals the steel and belief coursing through the squad before kick-off, and it’s hard to argue with the result that followed.
“I have said it many, many times – that is the strength of us, we are together. Staff, players, everyone – we trust each other.
“We have not been found wanting in that environment. You play hard, you be strong and you look after each other.
“There is so much quality in this room – and it’s quality that they don’t have, let’s be honest. We are the top team, eh? So have the belief.”
McGregor’s comments were no arrogant boast. While Rangers pushed Celtic all the way in the final, it was Rodgers’ men who stood firm in the defining moments. The shoot-out win was just reward for their composure and nerve when it counted.
The captain’s confidence mirrored the attitude that’s defined Celtic’s recent dominance in domestic competitions. Even when Rangers appeared to match their intensity on the pitch, Celtic showed the mental strength that often proves decisive.
With the Hoops going on to lift a double by the end of the campaign, the League Cup triumph felt like a statement win, both in terms of silverware and mentality. McGregor, leading by example, made the Hoops entered the final with no doubts about who they were.
The footage now offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the Celtic dressing room, and a reminder of the mindset driving their success.
