“I thought Callum was absolutely brilliant in the game,” said Brendan Rodgers.

“He’s such an outstanding player, he’s been here for such a long time and how he leads this team with his commitment and his example is absolutely second to none.

'I’ve managed him in so many games over my two spells and the consistency and the level he produces is absolutely incredible.'

“Now, from time to time he might not be nine out of 10. He’ll maybe only be seven sometimes but that’s just the level that he’s set.

“How he drives this team – and I’ve said before that he’s the real heartbeat of this team and the level of his game that he’s shown, like the other night, like against Leipzig, or away against Atalanta, he’s still a player for the very highest level.

“You’ll always have your critics, manager or player, whether it’s deserved or not, but what I do know is that the example he sets both on and off the pitch here, I’m very lucky to have him as my captain.”

And the manager also spoke about how much he is loving life at Celtic, having won the league and Scottish Cup double last season, and added the League Cup to that trophy haul in this campaign.

His team currently enjoy a 13-point lead at the top of the Premiership table, while they have progressed to the next stage of the Champions League with a game to spare, having won three, drawn three and lost just one match in the league phase.

“To be in management you need to have a real commitment and passion for the job, and you have to enjoy it,” the Celtic boss explained.

“I’ve been very lucky in my life to work with brilliant players but, more importantly, brilliant people, and I’m here that a club that’s really authentic with people who work hard and give you absolutely everything.

“And when I did come back, I had a point to prove and had to shake off some things that, for some people, will never be able to shake off, but for me, the most important thing was Celtic and giving them the best that I possibly could, and I absolutely love it.”

Watch the full manager’s presser

Celtic transfer window latest
Delight at European progress
Praise for Callum McGregor
Celtic’s ongoing journey of improvement
The enjoyment of managing Celtic

MATCH CENTRE

Follow the build-up and all the Dundee Premiership match action live on the official Celtic FC Match Centre.

Watch the full manager’s presser

MORE ON THE MATCH

MATCH CENTRE

Manager gives transfer update as Hoops prepare for Premiership clash with Dundee