Callum McGregor: Zenit goal was best I’ve ever scored

Callum McGregor says the goal he scored during Celtic’s 1-0 win over Zenit St Petersburg at Celtic Park last night was the best he’s ever scored for the club.

The home side had pretty much dominated the game but were struggling to find the key opening goal of the tie. However, in the 72nd minute, McGregor controlled a wonderful pass from Charly Musonda before firing home to give Celtic a lead that they held on to until full-time.

Speaking after the game, and as reported by the Herald, the 24-year-old said it was the best goal he’s scored since breaking into the Celtic first team.

He said:

I think it’s my best, in terms of a finish. I’m obviously delighted to get the finish and I’m always trying to add that to my game – goals in big games. I really wanted to make my mark, especially when the manager puts his trust in you for the big games. You’ve got to prove to everybody he was right to pick you. First and foremost it was a great team performance. But I was obviously delighted with my performance too.

McGregor also praised Musonda, on loan from Chelsea, for his part in the goal and for his performance in general.

It was a great ball from Charly, the wee man’s got that quality and he’s showed it since he came in. He spots a great pass, he’s lofted one over and I’ve taken it on the chest. I tried to hit it early and thankfully it’s gone in. To be fair, I just swung a leg at it!

The Celtic match-winner also confirmed that the main aim for his side was to go to the return leg having not conceded an away goal, but the fact that they will travel to Russia with a lead is a big positive.

We’re happy with a clean sheet and would’ve taken a zero zero to take over there. But we’re absolutely delighted with a 1-0.