Luke McCowan has opened up on the emotional side of Greg Taylor’s exit from Celtic, admitting he did everything he could to convince his close friend to stay.
Taylor joined Greek side PAOK earlier this week after seeing out his contract at the Hoops, ending a six-year spell in Glasgow.
The pair’s friendship goes well beyond the football pitch. Having known each other for years, McCowan and Taylor became virtually inseparable during their time at the club, often spending time together off the park as well as in training. The left-back’s move has clearly left a space in McCowan’s daily life.
Speaking to CeltsAreHere, McCowan made no secret of the sadness he feels, but insisted he’s proud of what Taylor has achieved and understands the pull of a fresh challenge. He also joked that while Taylor’s now abroad, it might just give him another good excuse for a holiday.
McCowan was quick to add that he didn’t let Taylor leave without a fight, doing his best to talk his pal into staying. But as he acknowledged, football never stands still, and the chance to link up again with Taylor in the Scotland squad remains a real possibility.
He said: “An empty space in the changing room or an empty space in my living room? We were always round each other’s house. The two of us talk the exact same. It’s sad.
“We both would love to play with each other longer, but where his career’s taken him is a credit to himself. He’s an amazing, amazing person. His family’s been over with him as well, so I’m sure they’ll have an amazing life.
“It’ll be a nice place to visit on holiday at some point, so I’m sure I will.”
When asked if he tried to get Taylor to stay at the club, McCowan said:
“Of course I did. Of course I did. But that’s just football. It’s always moving, it’s always changing. He’ll go on to that challenge with an open mind, and I’m sure he’ll do great.”
On the potential of facing or joining Taylor again with the national side, he added:
“Exactly, that’s a good point. Maybe I’ll need to get Greg’s ear to say to the manager!”
Taylor’s move brought an end to a brilliant chapter at Celtic, with the left-back featuring over 200 times and helping the club to multiple league and cup titles. His consistency and work rate made him a key player under several managers.
For McCowan, the focus now turns to the new season, but there’s little doubt Taylor’s absence will be felt behind the scenes. Their connection was part of the dressing room dynamic, and that’s not something that can be replaced overnight.
The two players’ careers may now be moving along different paths, but their friendship clearly remains strong. Taylor’s move abroad hasn’t lessened the respect and admiration McCowan has for his mate, on both a personal and professional level.
And with Scotland continuing to build a competitive squad, the door remains open for a reunion in dark blue. McCowan might not share a dressing room with Taylor at Lennoxtown anymore, but Hampden could be the next meeting point.
