Callum McGregor has once again shown his class by heaping praise on rival talent and new kid on the block, Nathan Patterson. Both players were on international duty with Scotland over in Moldova last night, with the latter scoring a crucial goal and his first at that level for his country.
Despite the obvious divide, there is no denying Patterson has the talent to be a mainstay in the Scotland team for years to come. The only downside of course is that our main rival has a very exciting young player who could net them a decent transfer fee somewhere down the line if he stays grounded.
On this point, our beating heart and captain, Callum McGregor stated that the youngster has been excellent since coming into the Scotland set-up, but insists he must stay ‘honest’ and listen to his fellow, older and more experienced professionals in order to reach the top. He said: “He’s been absolutely first class, as reported by Football Scotland. You can tell he’s a real talent – even from the first day he trained with us in the summer.”
He added: “You could see his quality, his athleticism. And it’s great to see him make such a big impact, getting off the mark with a goal. He needs to just keep his head down and keep working hard. Other experienced boys will keep him on the right track, keep him honest. But he’s already made a great start to his international career. He’s been excellent.”
McGregor has once again shown his class off the park as he is a beacon of light on it. The fact he is willing to comment on a taboo subject for many goes to show has made of better stuff. There is absolutely zero point denying the boy Patterson’s talent as he is in the mould of Kieran Tierney, whom many of the other side mocked and belittled when touted as being world class. I think we know who and the last laugh there folks. Callum has verified the point that you do not scorn talent because of staunch football lines, albeit especially vociferous when it comes to Scotland and Glasgow. It merely makes you look churlish.
Callum is right in his appraisal of Nathan Patterson’s talent; that is all it may remain if the player doesn’t earn his spurs and stay humble. McGregor himself had to go out on loan first before he had a crack at Celtic first team football. Patterson is fortunate enough to find himself in an enviable position, as their is not a multitude of talent available in this position – either at his club or the national team. He could do well to follow in the footsteps of Callum McGregor and remain dedicated to becoming the best no matter the cost or the road taken to achieve this goal.
Paul Gillespie
