Livingston midfielder Jason Holt has echoed his manager David Martindale in claiming that Celtic captain Callum McGregor is the “best player” in the country.

The Hoops faced Holt’s team on Wednesday evening, and in the build-up to the match, Holt (who is a former Rangers player), praised McGregor for his talent and incredible consistency:

“Callum and I have grown up through the age groups together and played in Scotland youth teams. I’ve had a few battles with him and he is a top player. He’s been outstanding through the years and his level of consistency is incredible.”

“It’s no real surprise to see him doing so well at Celtic. He’s taken on the captaincy and been outstanding in that role. I’d have to agree with what Davie Martindale, our manager, said about Callum being the best player in Scotland. To be at that top level it’s all about consistency and his performance levels are really high.”

Celtic fans don’t really need to be told by others about McGregor’s qualities. Since taking over the captaincy from Scott Brown, in particular, he really has been outstanding.

This season, the 29-year-old may have not racked up many goals or assists (partly down to a knee injury he suffered in early October), but he is still producing stand-out performances in the middle of the park.

There is fierce competition for places, with the likes of Reo Hatate, Matt O’Riley, Aaron Mooy and Tomoki Iwata all staking a claim for positions in the lineup and it is a testament to McGregor’s ability that he remains a nailed-on starter for manager Ange Postecoglou.