CALLUM MACGREGOR REFLECTS ON HIS SPECIAL MOMENT AGAINST THE ICELANDERS
Callummcgregor insists the prospect of falling 11 points behind Rangers is no cause for Celtic to panic.
The Hoops had last Tuesday’s match against St Mirren and this weekend’s visit of Aberdeen both postponed because of Boli Bolingoli’s breach of quarantine regulations.
And with their Glasgow rivals due to be in action twice before the Hoops face Dundee United on Saturday night, there is a real prospect of the gap being in double figures by kick- off time at Tannadice.
“I think it is too early to be concerned,” said the midfielder.
“We are only really focused on ourselves. We have come through this week and now we have a positive European game to look forward to on Tuesday with KR Reykjavic due at Celtic Park.
“The league matches we missed will be played. It is not a case of playing catch-up in terms of points.
“Once we get to the games, we will be focused on one-at-a-time as we catch up on fixtures further down the line.
“I don’t think there is any need to panic at all.
“We are looking forward to Tuesday, and then we have a game against
Dundee United next weekend.”
Mcgregor didn’t comment directly on Bolingoli’s actions, but he acknowledged Celtic’s current situation had similarities with the aftermath of Brendan Rodgers’ abrupt departure for Leicester City and Rodgers’ big fall out with Moussa Dembele.
“There are a couple of instances that you have mentioned there that the boys have dealt with brilliantly as a group, and it’s not different now,” said Mcgregor.
“Internally, the boys got together and we understand what is at stake and how we have to come for ward in a positive light and show our togetherness again.
“When you are successful year- onyear, the target gets bigger on your back every season. It is up to the players to defend the club and defend the supporters.
“The boys are well aware of their responsibility to the club, and the fact they have to deliver going forward.
“So we are in a positive frame of mind, looking forward to the game on Tuesday and just wanting to get back out on the grass, where we can play our football and show everyone we are together.”
Tu e s d a y ’ s Champions League qualifier holds sentimental significance for the 27-year-old.
He made his Celtic first- team debut against KR in the Icelandic capital in July 2014 and scored the only goal of the game.
“That game was a while ago now, but
It is up to the players to defend the club and defend the supporters