Celtic captain Callum McGregor has announced his retirement from international football.
The 31-year-old has earned 63 caps for Scotland and scored three goals, having made his senior debut in 2017 against the Netherlands.
McGregor has represented the national team from U-16 level and helped Steve Clarke’s side reach the European Championships in 2020 and 2024.
He scored Scotland’s first goal in a major men’s tournament for 23 years with a strike against Croatia at Hampden Park at Euro 2020, with two other international goals against Ukraine and Georgia.
“It’s a great honor to get 63 caps for my country,” he said. “Just once it would be a dream to reach 63 and to be put on the International Roll of Honor after reaching 50 is something I could only dream of when I was young.
Callum McGregor made his senior debut for Scotland against the Netherlands in 2017
“Throughout my career, I want to give my best to help my country and represent my supporters with passion and pride.
“I have made a very difficult decision, but a decision that I feel is right at the right time. It is very important that I speak to Steve, and I did it this week to let him know what I mean. I just feel that the time is right to move on from international football.
“International football has been a very important part of my career. I have learned a lot and achieved incredible things – with the famous night in Serbia being one of the best – and I have been blessed to share this experience with some people who good..
“Playing for Scotland has always meant a lot to me and to reach two major tournaments will be a real source of pride. Scoring at Hampden at the Euros in front of such fantastic supporters will be a special highlight for me.
McGregor’s goal against Croatia at Euro 2020 was Scotland’s first for 23 years in a men’s major final.
“Of course, like many others, I wish we could have gone further in the competition, but it is a privilege to play for my country on that stage and to have represented my country for so long.
“I have worked with some fantastic managers, friends and staff and I thank them for all their incredible efforts during our time together.
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McGregor captained Celtic to the Scottish Premiership title last season
“I wish Steve, the current Scotland players and all the players who didn’t follow me, the best of luck for the future.
“I would also like to give a special and sincere thank you to the Scotland fans who have supported me so well throughout my time. The level of passion and commitment brought by the fans is second to none and I will always remember them.”
Clarke: McGregor is a coach’s dream
Scotland head coach Steve Clarke added: “Callum’s consistency of performance and leadership qualities have been a real catalyst in his team’s return to major tournaments.
“He has been a driving force in the middle of the park and in many ways a coach’s dream: he is low maintenance, leads by example and sets the highest standards every day in training and matches.
“His professionalism and dedication has been a huge influence on our squad. We had a good chat and while I’m disappointed to lose Callum’s quality, I can understand the reasons for his decision.
“He will be missed by his teammates, coaches, backroom staff and, of course, the fans. I want to thank everyone who contributed and helped us get there.”
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