Scotland boss Steve Clarke has insisted that Celtic midfielder and captain Callum McGregor is a key piece of the midfield for the Tartan Army, striking up a partnership with Chelsea man Billy Gilmour.

The 28-year old midfielder has been having a superb season under Ange Postecoglou, which is also his first as club captain – leading from the front has become a big strength of McGregor’s.

He has also carried that form over to the international side, enjoying the midfield role alongside Premier League players such as Gilmour and John McGinn.

As quoted by Football Scotland, Clarke is clearly keen to have the Celtic man in his midfield whenever possible after praising McGregor for his ability on the ball, which is key to the way this side wants to play.

“Billy and Callum [McGregor] are two really good footballers on the ball.

“We always try to play anyway; that’s what we have always tried to do.

“But when you have two players like that in midfield, you have to give them the ball; otherwise, there’s no point in playing them.”

Despite having to wait for his international career to kick start, Callum McGregor has well and truly cemented his place within the starting line-up for this Scotland side.

Over the last few months, he has shown his quality against some of the best players in the world, including at last summer’s Euro 2020 tournament.

Although it is brilliant to see Celtic players pull on their nation’s colour, Hoops fans will be hoping desperately that McGregor can come through Scotland’s next game unscathed as they take on Austria in a friendly on Tuesday night.