Rodgers: Callum’s a star because he can see the game differently

“He just has this wonderful view of football – he gets it and understands the game. Callum also has this glorious first touch that sets him up whatever way he wants to go.

“He is such a big talent and I am happy he is getting the accolades now. Sometimes if you are not running about smashing a player, you might not get the plaudits and recognition.

“But Callum has the ability and courage to get on the ball, pass it and take it under pressure. He’s a wonderful player to have.”

When Rodgers pitched up at BY MICHAEL GANNON Parkhead he just assumed all the rumours he’d heard about the Scottish football talent vacuum was true. The SPFL was a post-apocalyptic wasteland as far as folk down south were concerned but it was his first impression of McGregor that convinced the Hoops boss there were green shoots of recovery north of the border.

Rodgers said: “When I first came in John Kennedy told me all about Callum. He’s played in his young teams and he’d seen him coming through. Early on I could tell quickly he was technically gifted.

“It was then a case of Callum knowing I had the confidence in him and wanted to extend his game.

“That was about having personality as there is a fine line with good players. They have talent but personality and belief can take you to the next level.

“I wanted to help him and give him confidence and now you can see the personality in his play. He has confidence and ability and now flourishes in every game.

“I have enjoyed watching the development of a lot of players and Callum is one of them. People ask ‘Where’s the talent?’ in Scotland but look at a player like him – it’s there.

“Callum does the basics well and has a level of excellence every day which he takes into the games. He’s a brilliant player.”

McGregor will be a key man this week as Celtic take on Valencia. The

BRENDAN RODGERS ON CALLUM McGREGOR