McGregor wants Celtic to win league 'in more style'

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reports that Celtic captain Callum McGregor has said he expects to remain with the club and wants the champions to retain the Scottish Premiership with greater authority this season. The 33-year-old midfielder spoke before Celtic’s league opener against Dundee on Monday at 19:30 BST, which will begin his 13th professional campaign with the Glasgow club.

McGregor’s comments follow speculation linking him with a possible move to Saudi Arabia and a reunion with former Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers. He told Sky Sports that Celtic has been central to his life and said he wants to keep helping drive the club’s success, while adding that whenever he eventually leaves, he wants to do so with the team in a strong position.

Celtic won the league on the final day last season under Martin O’Neill after chasing down Hearts, then added the Scottish Cup by beating Dunfermline Athletic at Hampden. But BBC Sport notes the season also included instability, with Rodgers leaving acrimoniously, O’Neill returning from retirement, Wilfried Nancy having a short interim spell, supporter protests over spending, and disappointment after failing to reach the Champions League following defeat by Kairat Almaty.

The squad has changed again, with Daizen Maeda, Kelechi Iheanacho, Kasper Schmeichel and several loanees departing, while Camilo Duran and record signing Kasper Hogh have arrived to strengthen the attack. McGregor said Celtic are aiming to reach the Champions League league phase, with their play-off opponents due to be confirmed after Monday’s draw.