Celtic captain McGregor explains why he enjoys pre-season
The midfielder and his teammates returned to Lennoxtown this week.
Mr McGregor is hoping to make a strong start in the 2025/26 campaign after missing a crucial penalty in the Scottish Cup final.
He told celticfc.com: "It's been a long summer.
"Longer than what I am used to anyway.
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"But over the last few days, you are just eager to get back in and get back on it.
"You always have that excitement about what a new season can bring, with the opportunities and possibilities.
"So, it's nice to get away, refresh and take stock a little bit.
"Once you drive through the gate this morning, you are back to work, and the serious stuff starts now.
"So, we're looking forward to it."
Celtic have several summer friendlies lined up against Newcastle United, Sporting CP, Ajax, and others.
The focus of the pre-season is on fitness, sharpness, and getting back into the groove.
McGregor explained how pre-season has changed over the years.
He said: "I think nowadays, pre-season the bedding in period is probably a little bit easier, like getting straight into running to be sick.
"The game has changed a little bit since then.
"It's the guys in the medical department who do all the screening to make sure everybody is okay.
"We had a light break-in session this afternoon, and then on Saturday the double sessions start.
"I might be a little bit different, I quite enjoy pre-season.
"I was up at seven o'clock this morning, ready to go and champing at the bit to get out the door."
Celtic's first pre-season friendly is against Queen's Park next Friday.
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