CALLUM McGREGOR BRUTALLY CALLS OUT FOOTBALL LEGEND OVER NATIONAL TV COMMENTS AND PREDICTIONS BEFORE ST MIRREN GAME

Celtic captain Callum McGregor has issued a strong response after his side’s emphatic 6–2 victory over St Mirren in the Scottish Cup semi-final, taking aim at pre-match predictions made by pundit Jamie Carragher that sparked debate before kick-off.

The controversy began during a Sky Sports pre-match discussion on Sunday morning, where Carragher, alongside other analysts, assessed the semi-final clash. During the segment, Carragher suggested that St Mirren had a realistic chance of causing an upset and went further by predicting a 3–2 defeat for Celtic.

The bold prediction quickly circulated among supporters on social media, with many Celtic fans strongly disagreeing with the idea that their side would fall short in such a crucial fixture. The comments added extra tension and talking points ahead of the semi-final.

Celtic answer in style with 6–2 win

On the pitch, Celtic responded in the most emphatic fashion possible. Brendan Rodgers’ side delivered a dominant attacking display, dismantling St Mirren 6–2 to book their place in the final.

Celtic controlled large portions of the game, dictating tempo through midfield and applying constant pressure in the final third. Their attacking quality proved too much for St Mirren, who, despite scoring twice, were ultimately overwhelmed by the intensity and pace of the Hoops.

The result ensured Celtic progressed comfortably, but the post-match discussion quickly shifted away from the scoreline and toward McGregor’s reaction to the pre-match narrative.

Speaking after the match, McGregor addressed the comments made before the game, making it clear that he felt Celtic had been unfairly written off.

“We heard all the talk before the game, especially the predictions on TV saying we were going to lose,” McGregor said. “Jamie Carragher said we’d lose 3–2, and that St Mirren could get the better of us.”

The Celtic captain admitted he respects former players in punditry roles but questioned the lack of belief shown in his team.

“I’ve got respect for people in the media, but sometimes it feels like certain voices are quick to dismiss us without understanding what this team is about,” he added.

McGregor emphasised that while external opinions are part of football, they often serve as motivation inside the dressing room.

“We don’t take that personally, but we do take it seriously on the pitch,” he continued. “If people want to say we’re going to lose 3–2 at home in a semi-final, then that’s their opinion but we’ll always respond where it matters.”

“Celtic deserve respect”

The midfielder went on to underline the stature of the club and what he believes is expected when discussing Celtic on a national platform.

“Celtic is a massive club, and we expect respect,” McGregor said. “Today we showed exactly why.”

His comments have since been widely shared among supporters, many of whom felt the team had delivered the perfect response to pre-match doubts.

Reaction to Carragher comments

Carragher’s prediction has remained a major talking point following the result, with fans divided over whether such bold calls are fair analysis or unnecessary criticism.

Some supporters pointed to McGregor’s comments and Celtic’s dominant performance as justification for his frustration, arguing that the team consistently proves doubters wrong on big occasions.

Others defended Carragher’s right to make outspoken predictions, noting that punditry often involves taking risks with scoreline forecasts and match outcomes.

Statement win overshadowed by debate

Despite Celtic’s convincing 6–2 victory securing their place in the final, much of the post-match narrative has focused on the pre-match prediction and McGregor’s reaction.

The midfielder’s response reflects the competitive mentality within the Celtic squad, particularly when external voices question their ability on the big stage.

While the debate continues off the pitch, Celtic’s performance provided the clearest possible answer on it, as they once again delivered in emphatic fashion when it mattered most.