Dundee Boss Thinks Celtic-linked Player Can Replace Callum McGregor in Scotland Set-up

Dundee manager Tony Docherty thinks Celtic-linked Luke McCowan can replace Callum McGregor in the Scotland set-up.

The Hoops skipper confirmed his retirement from the international scene the week before last, in somewhat of a shock announcement.

McGregor will leave a gaping hole in Steve Clarke’s team, but his retirement paves the way for others to step up.

Lewis Ferguson will get more Scotland minutes, but Dees gaffer Docherty reckons McCowan can make the grade.

It was reported last week that Dundee is expecting an offer from the Scottish champions for the midfielder.

A homegrown player who is coming into the peak of his career and available for a cut-price fee, the 26-year-old would be a shrewd signing.

He wouldn’t start for Celtic but prove an amicable squad option.

Last week, his manager Docherty was asked whether McCowan can push to play for Scotland following McGregor’s retirement.

“Yeah, possibly”, he said (RecordSport).

“Well, Callum McGregor’s made that decision, and what a fantastic servant he’s been to his country and continues to do that for his club as well. Of course, it’s like what I say in my squad, every situation presents an opportunity.

“So there’s opportunities for people to maybe stake a claim in that and I’d like all my players to look at that and think, I’ve got an opportunity.

“Again, I don’t like just speaking all the time about Luke McCowan. I think others, there’s players in the squad, and private conversations I’ve had with them, they’ve all got ambitions, that they want to be part of the national set-up.”

Brendan Rodgers is on the hunt for midfield reinforcements this summer.

He wants to sign two players in the engine room if Matt O’Riley departs; perhaps McCowan could be one.