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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Robbie Hanratty

'Looks back to his best': Celtic captain lauded for role in Premiership title success

Callum McGregor's "outstanding" performances helped Celtic clinch the Scottish Premiership title

That's according to James McFadden, who reckons the Hoops captain had a huge influence in tarnishing Rangers' dreams of knocking them off their perch this season. 

McGregor, 30, was sidelined for 38 days after suffering an Achilles issue during a league match against Dundee on February 28. 

And when he did return, he was eased back with minutes off the bench.

However, when it really mattered, the dynamic midfielder stepped up in all four post split fixtures to produce some of his very best football alongside Reo Hatate and Matt O'Riley. 

McFadden understands McGregor was perhaps rushed back from injury too soon, yet believes he's quickly managed to get back to his best, in a timely boost to both Scotland's Euro 2024 chances, plus Celtic's hopes of completing a domestic double when they go head-to-head with Rangers in the Scottish Cup final next weekend.

"I think he’s shown (his influence) over the last couple of weeks," the Scotland hero told Sky Sports.

"His introduction back into the team was too soon because I don’t think he’d trained much.

“But it’s not taken him too long to get it back. The last few weeks his performances have been outstanding.

“I know this is about Celtic and all the Celtic fans will be delighted but I’m just delighted he’s going to be ready for Germany.

“Honestly, I was really worried but he looks back to his best, there’s a couple of games to go and hopefully he will be alright for Germany.”

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