Ange Postecoglou admits he cannot wait to get a closer look at Celtic’s Euro 2020 representatives after singling out Callum McGregor for special mention.
The midfielder fired Scotland’s only goal of the tournament against Croatia but it was not enough to prevent Steve Clarke’s side making an early exit.
McGregor’s performances have got new Parkhead boss Postecoglou excited.
The Greek-born Australian arrived at Lennoxtown on Thursday to take his first training session after finally checking into Glasgow the day before.
But he will have to wait a few more days before he gets the chance to run the rule over McGregor and fellow Scotland squad members James Forrest, Greg Taylor, Ryan Christie and David Turnbull.
The Hoops quintet will be given extra time off to recover from their efforts over the summer before rejoining their club-mates ahead of their pre-season trip to Wales.
“They will need a bit of a break now but I can’t wait to get them back here,” said Postecoglou.
“The first thing is giving some of them a bit of a break because physically and emotionally they’ve been on a bit of a rollercoaster and it’s always good to have a little bit of a break.
“As soon as they’re ready to come back in it will be good to meet up with them and I’m sure they will be as enthusiastic as anyone else to get going.”
While Christie started up front alongside Lyndon Dykes in the Scots’ Group D opener against the Czech Republic, McGregor found himself on the bench.
But a damaging 2-0 Hampden defeat prompted a rethink and McGregor was recalled by Clarke to face England in London – with Postecoglou watching on from the Wembley stands.
The Hoops ace was paired with Chelsea youngster Billy Gilmour in the heart of midfield and together they put in a tireless display to frustrate Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions, with a goalless draw injecting fresh hope into the Tartan Army’s dreams of the last 16.
McGregor then became the first Scot since Craig Burley back in 1998 to net at a major finals with his goal against World Cup finalists Croatia – but Luka Modric turned up the style to send Clarke’s side spinning out following a 3-1 defeat.
But it was McGregor’s display which had Postecoglou purring.
“Callum was outstanding,” said the Celtic manager. “I watched the England v Scotland game live and he was great that night.
“He put in another great performance (against Croatia). I think all the lads will have had a positive experience.
“I know it didn’t end up being fantastic but just being part of a major tournament will leave them full of confidence.”
