Celtic: ‘Determined’ Callum McGregor dismisses Saudi links

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

The 32-year-old has played 555 times for Celtic since making his debut in 2014 and has won 24 major honours in a decade of dominance for the Parkhead club.

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

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

Celtic are third in the Scottish Premiership, six points adrift of leaders Hearts two behind rivals Rangers and were beaten at Hampden in December’s Premier Sports Cup final.

They have had three different managers in a chaotic season, with Rodgers’ resigning in October and Martin O’Neill back for a second interim spell after Wilfried Nancy’s tumultuous 33-day reign.

Supporters have continuously protested against the club’s board after a perceived lack of investment.

Despite the issues surrounding the club, McGregor stressed his desire to continue leading Celtic.

“Even more determined, even more,” he said. “Because of what’s happened. We’ve had a difficult spell, we’re used to winning, then things don’t go your way.

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