Callum McGregor is Celtic 'colossus' after battling through pain barrier to see off Rangers - inside the Parkhead camp

Greg Taylor insists captain Callum McGregor is a Celtic colossus. And the unsung Parkhead hero also singled-out the skipper’s sparking sidekick Matt O’Riley for being an outstanding contributor in the fight for the title.

Brendan Rodgers had terrific performers in every area of the pitch as they took care of Rangers in a massive moment. None shone brighter than their magnificent midfield duo. As the champions placed one hand back on their Premiership trophy by sinking their nearest challengers, McGregor was an inspiration. The 30-year-old led from the front in a sublime display.

McGregor was a picture of calm and composure in the heat of the battle. The midfielder displayed authority and, given he’s not yet back to peak fitness following an achilles injury, it was a mighty showing. McGregor’s displays against Hearts the previous week and Rangers have been critical for Rodgers and the squad and Taylor acknowledged: “He’s a winner, isn’t he?

“He leads by example and drags other boys with him. He’s just a colossus in the middle of the park. A real leader for us. He inspires other people. He makes other people around him better, which is an unbelievable trait to have as well as his individual performance. It’s amazing to have him.”

McGregor has had to nurse and manage his way back from the injury and Taylor knows exactly how his captain has been feeling. Asked if team-mates had helped him through, Taylor explained: “Yeah, totally. Achilles tendonitis isn’t good. I’ve suffered with it and still suffer with it, so I feel him there, it’s tough in the mornings.”

McGregor may be sore, but he’s been inflicting pain on rivals for years at Celtic and has been at it again just at the right time for Rodgers. When the captain had