Celtic captain Callum McGregor refused to rule out a return to the Scotland setup after starring in Celtic’s 2-1 win over Hibernian at Easter Road.

He has played all but thirteen minutes of Martin O’Neill’s interim spell, which has seen the Parkhead side play seven matches after the Northern Irishman replaced compatriot Brendan Rodgers in October.

The midfielder retired from international football following Euro 2024 after winning 63 caps for his country, but an upturn of form and Scotland’s qualification for the World Cup next summer has raised the question of potential Scotland return.

“To be honest, it’s not something I have thought of.” McGregor said when asked if he would reconsider his availability if Scotland manager Steve Clarke asked.

“Obviously the guys did amazing to qualify in the last international break. A lot of good team-mates and friends in there so I was so happy for them.

“For me, I just want to concentrate on the job I’ve got here [at Celtic]. I don’t want to get drawn into anything like that if I have got a big job here.

“[There will be a] Change of manager soon probably, so, I’ll just keep trying to play well and whatever will be, will be.”

McGregor’s last game for the national side was a late 1-0 defeat to Hungary at the 2024 European Championships, and scored his first of three goals for Scotland in a 3-1 defeat to Croatia at Euro 2020.

The centre midfield area of the squad is probably where Scotland need strengthening the least, but the quality the Celtic skipper has shown for club and country over his career would be useful in the Americas next year.

With Scotland qualifying for their first World Cup since 1998, Steve Clarke may look to use this as leverage to tempt McGregor back into the fold, as well as Newcastle’s Harvey Barnes, who never said no in an interview with Sky in the wake of qualification.

The draw for the 2026 World Cup takes place this Friday, as the Tartan Army await with anticipation to book their flights for FIFA’s premier competition for the first time in 28 years.