JUST IN:Brendan Rodgers Reacts to Callum McGregor’s “Really Good News”
·Brendan Rodgers Reacts to Callum McGregor’s “Really Good News”
Brendan Rodgers has shared his reaction to Callum McGregor’s recent decision to retire from international football, a choice that marks a significant shift in the Celtic captain’s career.
McGregor, who has been a key figure for Scotland with 63 caps to his name, announced his retirement on Friday morning.
The 31-year-old has had a notable international career, highlighted by a memorable goal at the UEFA European Championship in 2021.
He also represented Scotland in this summer’s tournament in Germany, where his performances were praised, even though the team did not advance beyond the group stages.
At this point in his career, McGregor has decided to focus on his responsibilities at Celtic, where he continues to serve as team captain.
With the World Cup qualifiers approaching and another tournament two years away, McGregor would have been 33 by then. His decision to step back from international duties appears to be a strategic one, aimed at preserving his form and energy for club commitments.
Brendan Rodgers, Celtic’s manager, responded to McGregor’s announcement with both understanding and support.
He acknowledged the immense physical and mental demands that come with playing international football and expressed his approval of McGregor’s decision. Rodgers emphasized that from Celtic’s standpoint, this move is particularly beneficial as it allows McGregor some mucus needed rest.
Speaking to Clyde 1 Super scoreboard, Rodgers mentioned that he had been aware of McGregor’s intentions beforehand and understood the reasoning behind them.
He praised McGregor’s contributions to the Scottish national team over the past seven years, during which he accumulated 63 caps.
Rodgers highlighted the demanding schedule that McGregor has managed, noting the intensity and commitment that the player brings to every match.
Rodgers pointed out that McGregor rarely takes time off, even on days when he’s not required to train or play.
Instead, he uses those moments to recover or mentally prepare for upcoming games. This level of dedication, Rodgers said, is something he greatly admires in McGregor.
However, with the player now stepping away from international duties, he will have more opportunities to rest, which Rodgers believes will be beneficial for both McGregor and Celtic.
Rodgers also reflected on McGregor’s international career, describing it as “fantastic” and something that the midfielder can be very proud of.
The manager expressed confidence that McGregor will now be able to focus entirely on his role at Celtic, where he is expected to continue leading the team with the same intensity and passion that has characterized his career so far.
In summary, McGregor’s decision to retire from international football is seen as a positive development for Celtic, allowing their captain more time to rest and recover.
Rodgers’ response underscores the importance of balancing the demands of club and international football, particularly for players like McGregor, who have consistently given their all on both fronts.
As McGregor transitions into this next phase of his career, his contributions to Scotland will be remembered, and his focus will now be on leading Celtic to further success.
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