Brendan Rodgers claims Callum McGregor’s decision to retire from international football is ‘really good news’ for Celtic.
The Parkhead skipper has announced that he is stepping down from Scotland duty after 63 caps, which includes appearances at Euro 2020 and Euro 2024.
Just two weeks ago, the 31-year-old said he planned to continue playing for his country, with Steve Clarke scheduled to announce his squad for the opening game of the Nations League against Poland later this month.
Following talks with Rodgers and Clarke, however, McGregor confirmed his intention to prolong his club career with Celtic by ending his international career.
Celtic boss Rodgers said yesterday: ‘I had spoken to Callum about that and was aware of his intentions. He’s had a great seven years with Scotland. He has 63 caps and seven goals.
‘From a selfish perspective, it is really good news for Celtic. He will get the chance to recover properly due to the number of games that he plays.
Rodgers says McGregor's decision to quit Scotland will benefit Celtic
McGregor shakes hands with Clarke after Hungary game, which proved to be his last
The Celtic midfielder in action against hosts Germany during Euro finals
‘This will give him those little opportunities to have a breather, because he is really intense.
‘That’s what I love about him, his appetite to improve, and he never has a day off - ever.
‘Even when he has a free day to recover, he is thinking about the game. These little windows that he will have will give him the chance to do that.
‘It is a fantastic career he has for his country and he can be very proud of that. He is now entering the next part of his career and all of his focus will be on Celtic.’
McGregor represented Scotland at every youth level and was instrumental in ending the country’s 23-year wait for an appearance at a major tournament.
He said: ‘I have made a decision which was very difficult, of course, but a decision which I feel is the right one at the right time.
‘International football has been a really important part of my career where I have learned so much and achieved some incredible highs.
‘Of course, like many others. I wish we could have gone further in these competitions but, nonetheless, it has been a privilege to have played for my country on such a stage and to have represented my country for such a long period.’
Celtic skipper McGregor and Rodgers enjoy a chat at Lennoxtown
Rodgers praised McGregor for having 'a fantastic career' for Scotland
Celtic have enquired about Crystal Palace utility man Jeffrey Schlupp
Scotland manager Clarke expressed disappointment with McGregor’s decision, but thanked him for his contribution.
‘Callum’s consistency of performance and leadership qualities have been a real catalyst in the team’s return to major tournaments,’ he said in a statement.
‘He has been a driving force in the middle of the park and in many ways is a coach’s dream: he is low maintenance, leads by example and sets the highest standards every day in training and in matches.
‘That professionalism and dedication has been a huge influence in our squad. We had a very good chat and, while I am disappointed to lose Callum’s qualities, I can understand the rationale behind his decision. I would like to thank him for all that he has contributed and helped us achieve.’
Meanwhile, Celtic have enquired over Crystal Palace's 31-year-old utility man Jeffrey Schlupp after left-back target Hugo Bueno of Wolves agreed a season-long loan deal at Feyenoord.