Johan Mjällby reckons Callum McGregor took the “courteous” decision to announce his Scotland retirement following Euro 2024.
The former Celtic assistant manager was Neil Lennon’s No.2 when McGregor first came through the ranks and admitted he was sceptical whether the midfielder would come back from a loan spell at Notts County ready to make a first team impact.
But that’s exactly what the 31-year-old done back in 2014 and he’s since made almost 500 appearances for the Hoops.
With his retirement from international duty letting him focus on continuing to win silverware at Celtic, Mjällby understands the thought process behind the decision.
The Parkhead skipper has started the new campaign in fine form and even netted during the 2-0 Scottish Premiership win over Hibernian on Sunday.
"It was a fantastic goal," Mjällby told the Scottish Football Social Club.
"He's been a stalwart for Celtic for a number of years. I just remember when he was young, he went on-loan and I didn't know if he would come back obviously being able to start becoming a stalwart at Celtic.
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"But what a great career he's had. It's sad to hear the news that he's going to retire from international duty.
"I personally think it's a tricky one because football wise, he should still obviously play for Scotland, he's a fit lad as well.
"I just think mentally if you don't have the motivation to obviously do the double work by playing for both your club and your nation. Then it's courteous to make that decision and just focus on the one thing.
"I can't personally criticise Callum for this. If he feels this way mentally then it's the best way to go. Otherwise it's not going to do him justice when he puts on a Scotland jersey."
