“IT WAS TOUGH” — CALLUM MCGREGOR’S ICE-COLD RESPONSE AFTER CELTIC’S LATEST DEFEAT HAS FANS TALKING
Callum McGregor delivered a remarkably candid assessment after Celtic suffered another damaging defeat, admitting that the latest setback was difficult to take while insisting that the squad must remain united during a difficult period.
Celtic were beaten 3–1 by Ferencváros, suffering their second heavy defeat in the space of a few days following the 3–0 loss to Rangers at Ibrox. The result has intensified scrutiny surrounding Martin O’Neill’s side, with supporters demanding a reaction from the players.
Speaking after the final whistle, McGregor did not attempt to disguise the disappointment.
“It was tough. They scored at good times and it’s a sore one,” the Celtic captain was reported as saying.
The midfielder’s response immediately turned attention towards Celtic’s current situation. Rather than pointing fingers or making excuses, McGregor acknowledged that the team has not looked comfortable in recent performances.
“You can see that it’s a little bit broken in how we want to play, it’s a bit nervy and awkward at times,” he said.
Those words have attracted significant attention because they provide a blunt assessment of Celtic’s current struggles from one of the most experienced figures inside the dressing room.
McGregor, however, stressed that the solution cannot come from individuals acting alone. He called for unity between the players, coaching staff and supporters, arguing that Celtic must work collectively to escape the difficult spell.
“We have to stick together now,” was the message from the captain, with McGregor also stressing the importance of hard work and getting the fundamentals right.
The Celtic captain also acknowledged that the squad contains a number of relatively new players and suggested that the experienced members of the group now have an important responsibility to help guide their teammates through the difficult period.
For supporters, the comments are likely to generate plenty of debate. Celtic have now endured consecutive defeats against Rangers and Ferencváros, leaving little room for another poor performance in the immediate future.
McGregor was also looking firmly towards the next challenge. With another Old Firm meeting approaching, he made clear that Celtic need a response rather than more explanations.
“The ultimate test at the weekend is that we have to win the game,” he said.
His post-match interview therefore offered neither excuses nor false reassurance. Instead, Celtic’s captain acknowledged the problems, accepted the seriousness of the situation and challenged the squad to respond through hard work, togetherness and improved performances.
After two difficult results, McGregor’s message was unmistakable: Celtic cannot afford to remain stuck in the same cycle. The response now has to come on the pitch.
