Ryan Stevenson shares why Callum McGregor is the ‘one Celtic player who deserved to lift the title’
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Credit: BBC Sportscene, Imago Sun 17 May 2026 7:03, UK Ryan Stevenson has praised Celtic captain Callum McGregor after he lifted his 11th Scottish Premiership title at Celtic Park on Saturday.The Bhoys captain featured throughout as his team beat Hearts 3-1 to win the title in a final day showdown. Callum McGregorStats – Scottish Premiership 2025-26Appearances37Goals / Assists2 / 3Chances created35Tackles55Recoveries220Possession won final third32Duels won105Despite plenty of criticism this season, McGregor has been an ever-present controller for the Bhoys throughout the campaign, making a remarkable 56 appearances across all competitions.In all but one of Celtic’s final five Scottish Premiership games, he has played for the full 90 minutes, and Saturday’s title decider was no different.
It was the midfielder who played the pass through to Osmand to seal the trophy, which he would lift shortly after.Speaking to BBC Sportscene on Saturday, former Hearts man Stevenson was asked about this Celtic team’s character and said: “I think Callum’s pivotal in that. I think it’s been a tough season for Callum because he came into a bit of criticism at times, and he’s managed to find a way through it.
“He’s a proper captain for me and one Celtic player who did deserve to lift the title today was him, for everything that he’s been through. “Where it’s been people having a pop at him, which I think was unjust, but he has undoubtedly been dragging players through.” He added: “I hope he gets the recognition that he truly deserves because he’s been a great captain this year.”McGregor eyes summer overhaulDespite Celtic’s victorious Saturday, there is an acceptance at Parkhead that big changes are needed in the summer.O’Neil has provided a formidable presence as interim manager, but the Northern Irishman must now be replaced amid the backdrop of the failure of Wilfried Nancy’s appointment.McGregor confirmed in an interview last month that he wants to see ambition above him this summer, with the midfielder sending a clear message when he told decision-makers to trust those with the right qualifications.The board remain a hot topic at Celtic, and this summer will be seen as a key test for those responsible for the hiring of Nancy.