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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Joe Donnelly

The 'headache' task Callum McGregor is glad to give Brendan Rodgers

As Celtic prepare for their opening UEFA Champions League encounter against Slovan Bratislava tomorrow (Wednesday), Brendan Rodgers has some important decisions to make regarding his starting XI.

With record signing Arne Engels entering the team on Saturday against Hearts, Paulo Bernardo was dropped to the bench despite the Portuguese midfielder's fine form so far this season.

Between Engels, Bernardo, Reo Hatate and Callum McGregor, one player is bound to miss out in the starting line-up in Celtic's midfield, however the club captain reckons this is a headache he and his peers all over the pitch are happy to give the manager.

"I think everybody wants that," said McGregor. "I think you speak to the players, elite football at this level is ruthless and you want competition for places. It's the only way to keep the level high and keep driving standards.

"What I've seen of the group so far, they drive their own standards anyway. There are some amazing senior pros and the way they look after everybody and set the tone is excellent.

"That's the manager's job to pick the team but all we can do is push as hard as we can in training. When we get the chance to play then give him that headache as well, and I'm sure he'll pick the right set of players."

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