McGregor had a ringside seat when Celtic made a habit of joining Europe’s big guns in the knockout stages in the Champions League. He was still a fresh-faced ballboy when the likes of Shunsuke Nakamura was curling in belters on the way to consecutive last 16 spots under Gordon Strachan.

Callum McGregor insists Celtic will have no fears going to Villa Park and beyond - because the Hoops have proved they are Champions League class.

The Hoops captain is sick of hard luck tales against Europe's elite as he looks to seal a knockout spot with a game to spare

Callum McGregor says the impending departure of key striker Kyogo Furuhashi will create a platform for the club to “make their next hero” as he hailed Celtic’s ability to consistently replace their big names.

Celtic FC Captain Callum McGregor spoke to the media ahead of The Bhoys' UEFA Champions League clash against BSC Young Boys at Celtic Park. Full Press Conference Courtesy of UEFA.

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A home win would secure a place in the Champions League play-off round and maintain hopes of a place in the top eight.

The Scottish champions have already banked their place among the big boys for the knockout stages but skipper wants more

Callum McGregor celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Scottish Cup Fourth Round match between Celtic and Kilmarnock at Celtic Park on January 18, 2025. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/) The Bhoys should have been high and dry by the half-time whistle in Paradise but allowed Derek McInnes’ team to go in level through some terrible misses in front of goal.

UEFA Champions LeagueLeague phase, matchday sevenWednesday, January 22, 2025Celtic Park, Glasgow CELTIC… 1(Benito 85og) YB BERN… 0 Celtic secured UEFA Champions League knockout football with a

Celtic captain Callum McGregor is proud of his teammates for showing their 'mature side' in the Champions League.

Opposition sides in Europe are now showing Celtic more respect, Callum McGregor says. The Hoops skipper spoke ahead of Celtic’s showdown with BSC Young Boys in the Champions League, knowing a victory in that tie would secure progression to the knockout play-offs of the competition.