Callum McGregor: How Celtic captain has gone from Notts County survival to title-winner

Flourishing club form brought international recognition in November 2017, when McGregor made his Scotland debut in a friendly against Netherlands under caretaker manager Malky Mackay.

A further 41 Scotland caps have followed, with 10 of those earned under Alex McLeish and assistant James McFadden.

“Callum was always willing to take on instructions,” Sportscene pundit McFadden says. “He never had to be told twice. He’s such an intelligent player and he understands the game brilliantly.

“Even then, you saw his leadership qualities. He wanted to know the roles of those around him so he could make sure they were performing them. He was just such a top professional.”

Since current Scotland head coach Steve Clarke’s appointment in May 2019, McGregor has featured in all but two of 33 games, with his midfield relationship with Billy Gilmour and John McGinn crucial to Scotland booking a World Cup play-off place.

The trio first started together in the Euro 2020 meeting with England. And, while summer rain doused the Wembley pitch, Derry was hit with a wave of emotion in the stands as McGregor and Grealish shared the pitch in a major finals.

“I’ve got to be honest, I was choked up,” Derry says. “For me, their ex-manager watching on, it was just an unbelievably proud moment. I’m very proud to have even played just 0.5% of their development.”

“Callum’s technique is underrated,” former Scotland forward McFadden adds. “In fact, he’s underrated in general. He’s absorbed the Celtic captaincy and is continually growing into it.

“He’s only getting better as a player as well. Maybe he’s now finally getting the recognition he deserves in a Scotland top. He’s made himself a vital part of Clarke’s team.”