Callum McGregor responds to televised jibe ahead of high-stakes Hampden semi-final showdown with Rangers

Celtic captain Callum McGregor is preparing for a defining moment in his career as he returns to Hampden Park for the first time since his heartbreaking penalty miss in last season’s Scottish Cup final defeat to Aberdeen. The 32-year-old midfielder, who called that day the lowest of his career, says he is focused solely on leading Celtic past Rangers in Sunday’s Premier Sports Cup semi-final.

For McGregor, the return to Hampden carries emotional weight. His missed penalty last May ended a flawless record at the national stadium and marked his first defeat in a cup final there. However, the Celtic skipper insists he isn’t haunted by that memory, instead viewing it as a lesson.

“I’ve had so many good days at Hampden, so there was bound to be a bad one at some point,” McGregor reflected this week. “You’ve got to deal with disappointment as a footballer. I’m much more positive than negative. The next challenge is always the most important one.”

His calm focus was tested this week when Rangers legend Ally McCoist mocked him on national television, claiming “failure awaits him” on his return to Hampden. The remark, which referenced McGregor’s penalty miss, was delivered in McCoist’s trademark cheeky tone but sparked immediate backlash among Celtic supporters. Many accused the pundit of disrespecting a player who has been one of the most consistent and respected professionals in Scottish football for over a decade.

When asked about McCoist’s comments, McGregor responded sharply but with dignity.

“I’ve got a lot of respect for Ally and what he’s done in the game,” he said. “But when someone jokes about failure, it says more about them than it does about me. I’ve never been afraid to take responsibility. I’ll take another penalty tomorrow if it’s needed.”

McGregor’s response drew wide praise from pundits and fans alike, who admired the Celtic captain’s restraint and leadership. His words reflected the calmness that has defined his tenure as captain since succeeding Scott Brown. For McGregor, leading by example means rising above noise and focusing on performance.

O’Neill Backs His Leader

Celtic’s interim boss Martin O’Neill was quick to defend his skipper following the exchange, calling McGregor a “model professional.”

“Callum’s one of the best leaders I’ve ever worked with,” O’Neill said. “He’s intelligent, disciplined, and he knows what it takes to win big matches. Everyone makes mistakes in football  the great ones learn from them. Callum has the mentality and class you want in a captain.”

O’Neill also highlighted McGregor’s outstanding record in Glasgow derbies. Out of 44 meetings with Rangers, the Celtic captain has emerged victorious 24 times, drawn eight, and lost 12. It’s a record that demonstrates both longevity and consistency in one of football’s fiercest rivalries.

“Those numbers speak for themselves,” O’Neill continued. “He knows this fixture, he knows the pressure, and he thrives on it. I have no doubt he’ll be ready.”

Focused on Redemption, Not Revenge

While McGregor’s exchange with McCoist dominated headlines, the Celtic captain has made it clear his only focus is football. Redemption, not revenge, is what drives him into this semi-final clash.

“I’ve moved on from that day,” he said. “It was a tough one to take, but you can’t live in the past. You learn from it, you grow, and you keep going. All that matters now is winning and getting Celtic to another final.”

McGregor’s mentality has inspired teammates during training this week. Sources inside the club describe him as more vocal than ever, setting the tone with his professionalism and competitive edge. His leadership, combined with O’Neill’s tactical guidance, has helped steady Celtic after a turbulent few months.

Rangers’ New Chapter Under Röhl

Across the city, Rangers are entering the semi-final under new management, with Danny Röhl quickly earning respect for his tactical intelligence and energy. The 35-year-old German has revitalized the squad with a modern pressing approach and a focus on quick transitions.

Röhl knows that facing McGregor’s Celtic is a major test of his project’s progress. With both sides under fresh leadership, the semi-final is shaping up as a contest between experience and innovation, composure and intensity.

Hampden Awaits a Captain’s Redemption

As the city braces for another explosive Old Firm encounter, all eyes will be on McGregor. The same stadium that brought him heartache just months ago now offers a chance for redemption.

For a player who has lifted multiple league titles, cups, and earned over 60 Scotland caps, Hampden is both a stage and a symbol. On Sunday, he’ll walk out again — not to rewrite history, but to prove that setbacks don’t define great players.

“I’ve always said football gives you another chance,” McGregor said. “It’s up to you to take it.”

Whatever the result, McGregor’s response to criticism and his hunger to return stronger has already reminded everyone why he remains the heartbeat of this Celtic team calm under pressure, unwavering in belief, and ready once again to lead his club into battle.