Following Callum McGregor’s missed penalty in Saturday’s Scottish Cup final defeat to Aberdeen, Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers took the opportunity to emphasise the skipper’s long-standing value to the club…
With the scoreline level at 1-1 after extra time at Hampden, Celtic went to penalties against the Dons, where missed efforts from Callum McGregor and Alistair Johnston saw the Hoops fall 4-2 in the shootout which ultimately ended their hopes of a domestic Treble.
McGregor showed clear disappointment on the pitch as Aberdeen secured their first Scottish Cup victory in 35 years, with teammates and the manager offering him support in the aftermath.
During his Hampden post-match press conference, Rodgers was questioned about his message to the veteran midfielder. The Celtic boss said: “He’s such a conscientious guy who gives so much to this club. As the skipper, he’s obviously so disappointed he hasn’t scored.”
“I was just reminding him what an incredible leader he is for this club. He’s given so much to this season and to all the seasons that I’ve ever known him. He is such an amazing guy. It’s unfortunate the keeper makes the saves. But no, he’ll come back in the summer stronger, fitter and ready to go again.”
Kasper Schmeichel endured a tough moment late in the game, misjudging a cross from Shayden Morris that led to an own goal and allowed Aberdeen to level the score in the 83rd minute, just as Celtic appeared to be closing in on another historic day at the national stadium.
Speaking about Aberdeen’s equaliser, Rodgers said: “He’s obviously apologetic to his teammates, but he’s been outstanding for us all season.
“It was one of those moments in the game late on that can happen. We still had one or two other chances that we could have scored from, but, yes, it was just unfortunate at that time of the game.”
Conor Spence
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