Roy Keane slams Celtic player for mistake vs Germany

Scotland made the worst possible start to their EURO 2024 campaign, suffering a 5-1 defeat at the hands of Germany. Celtic were well represented on the day. Callum McGregor and Anthony Ralston started while several others with a history with the Hoops also featured. But ultimately, it was not a positive experience for any of them.

Germany were by far the better team. To be honest, the scoreline could have turned out more lopsided.

Germany had five different goalscorers on the day. On the other hand, Scotland's goal came from Antonio Rudiger, who found the back of his own net in the 87th minute but by then, it was too late to have any impact on the result. In fact, the hosts added another after that.

Roy Keane seemed less than impressed with McGregor's efforts on the day. It had to do with the build-up to Germany's second goal in the first half. As reported by Glasgow World, the Manchester United legend said on ITV:

"Look at McGregor here, you cannot gamble in the middle of the park.

"You cannot gamble against these players. There is no need. Stay goalside and even when it comes back, a bit of a gamble. He's an experienced player, use your head, lovely feet of course. Possible (trying to make up for the first mistake). He's made a big mistake and compounded it with the second one."

Roy Keane slams Celtic player for mistake vs Germany

Very few, if any, Scottish players will be going home with passing marks for their performance against Germany. They need to improve immensely in the next two games.

This game was always going to be a tall mountain to climb for the Scottish national team. The next two should be relatively easier. At least, on paper.

Scotland do have enough quality in their squad to be competitive with Switzerland and Hungary. Now, it remains to be seen whether they can prove it on the pitch. If not, then this will turn out to be another disappointing major tournament for them.

As for McGregor, one can only hope that he is given more chances in the tournament moving forward. This was just a bad day at the office for the Celtic captain and one would expect a veteran like him to come back stronger.