IN the wake of a fine performance and a goal against Partick Thistle in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup last Saturday, Callum McGregor said he and his team-mates fully understand what it means to pull on a Celtic jersey, during a hectic stretch of fixtures.

Likewise, at a time when new faces are coming into the squad, the 26-year-old said competition is healthy for growth and progress.

“Whenever you lose games at Celtic, there is big pressure on you the next time you play,” said McGregor. “Our squad knows what it means to play for the jersey. When you go out on the pitch, you have to win and give it your all and play a certain way.

"When you’re asked to play, you give everything, you’re representing a cause. There are close to 70 games per season for some of us, and you want to play in as many of those as you can.

“Competition is always important at clubs like Celtic. It’s always healthy for the dressing room. The more quality players we get in, that can only drive the standards up and, of course, can help the lads.”

McGregor said new faces add an element of pressure to perform, which is welcomed by everyone in the dressing room. Players returning from injury also add to that expectation, said the midfielder, such as Leigh Griffiths who scored the Hoops’ opener at the weekend.

Speaking of his own game, McGregor said he feels good in fitness terms, and was delighted to get on the scoresheet at Firhill.

He added: “Leigh can be massive between now and the remainder of the season. His record speaks for itself and he’s a great goalscorer. Hopefully we can keep him fit, and he can keep scoring goals.

“He was unstoppable at one point, and it’s our job as players, and the job of the club and the manager to get him back up to that level. He came in at the weekend with a goal, which was great, and hopefully he can kick on now.

“As for me, you’re not going to get as many chances to score if you’re playing deeper in midfield as I have been. But the system the other night was about the midfield players getting that space.

"The onus was on us to support the front guys, and I was able to take on a strike and of course ended up with a goal. Right now, I feel good fitness-wise and I’m enjoying my football.”

Callum McGregor: This squad thrives under pressure