Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers will be keen to use the international break to make sure his squad are match-ready for the season run-in.
With eight games to go, the Bhoys sit one point ahead of Rangers in the Scottish Premiership title race heading into their trip to Livingston on Sunday.
Of course, Rodgers also has the chance to see his side’s name inscribed on the Scottish Cup trophy for the second year running if they can negotiate a tricky tie against Aberdeen at Hampden in the last four, followed by a victory over Rangers or Heart of Midlothian in the final.
Nevertheless, the Irishman won’t be getting too ahead of himself, with his primary focus likely to be on ensuring his key men return for our final charge towards the finish line.
Later this week, when we travel to West Lothian, club captain Callum McGregor, Japanese midfielder Reo Hatate, and Republic of Ireland defender Liam Scales could all return for the contest against David Martindale’s outfit.
The former has been left out of Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad due to his current injury status; however, as long as he is fit, McGregor is a shoo-in to be on the plane to Germany for EURO 2024.
Despite his absence, Greg Taylor and Anthony Ralston have linked up with the Tartan Army over the break, and the latter came on as a late substitute in a 4-0 defeat to the Netherlands last Friday [BBC Sport].
Celtic’s Callum McGregor misses out on international award
Earlier this month, McGregor received recognition for his performances at international level by being nominated for the William Hill Men’s International Player of the Year.
Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay, Aston Villa captain John McGinn, and Norwich City’s Angus Gunn were among the other names on a four-man shortlist for the prize, which Scottish Football Writers Association members have voted on since.
Unfortunately for McGregor, his Scotland teammate McTominay was the eventual winner. In truth, it would’ve been hard to deny the 27-year-old, given his seven-goal tally during EURO 2024 qualifying that helped Scotland to qualify for Germany [SFWA official website].
Nevertheless, our captain also played an important role in the nation’s success and will be expected to be a key man for club and country from now until the end of the season.
Hopefully, McGregor can pack his bags for Germany this summer off the back of lifting two pieces of silverware for his club!