Celtic: Callum McGregor is a “determiner” who denies Saudi links

Celtic captain Callum McGregor has dismissed speculation linking him with a move away from the club, and said he is more determined than ever to get them back to the top in Scotland.

The 32-year-old has made 555 appearances for Celtic since making his debut in 2014 and won 24 major trophies during a decade of dominance at the Parkhead club.

McGregor has been linked to a reunion with former manager Brendan Rodgers at Saudi club Al-Qadisiyah, but insists these are nothing more than rumours.

“No, no, I’m here,” he said when asked about the speculation.

Celtic occupies third place in the Scottish Premier League, six points behind leaders Hearts and two points behind rival Rangers, and lost to Hampden in the Premier League Cup final in December.

They have had three different managers in a chaotic season, with Rodgers resigning in October and Martin O’Neill returning for a second caretaker spell following Wilfred Nancy’s tumultuous 33-day spell.

Fans have consistently protested against the club’s board following a perceived lack of investment.

Despite the problems surrounding the club, McGregor confirmed his desire to continue leading Celtic.

“More determined, more determined,” he said. “Because of what happened. We went through a difficult period, we were used to winning, and then things did not go our way.

“So, now you have to show everyone that you want to be a winner, you want to survive, you want to fight and you want to make the club successful.”