Celtic midfielder Callum McGregor has announced that he has retired from international football after spending eight years playing for the Scotland national team.
The 31-year-old started his international journey at under-15 level, going on to feature for the under-16s, under-17s, under-19s, under-20s and under-21s before making his senior debut in November 2017.
The Celtic star helped the Tartan Army qualify for Euro 2020 and Euro 2024, ending his time with them with three goals and two assists in 63 caps.
McGregor has spoken with Scotland manager Steve Clarke and has now decided to fully focus on club football going forward.
“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,” the Hoops star said.
“It was very important I spoke to Steve and I did that this week to make him aware of my intentions. As I said to Steve, I just felt the time is right for me to move on from international football.”
The Celtic captain has proven himself at international level despite having no silverware to show for it, and it cannot be denied that he gave his best whenever he stepped onto the pitch of play.
The Parkhead club are the greatest beneficiaries of his decision to retire from national team duties, and they can have his full and undivided attention and services for a few more years.
McGregor has made 465 appearances for the Scottish Premiership champions since making his debut in July 2014, scoring 64 goals and weighing in with 77 assists.
He has played a huge role and remained a key player ever since, winning nine titles, six Scottish Cups and seven Scottish League Cups.
The Celtic legend has made the Premiership PFA Scotland Team of the Year four times and was named PFA Scotland Players’ Player of the Year in 2021-22.
There is still more silverware to win with the Bhoys, and McGregor will continue to give his best as he approaches the twilight of his career.
