Celtic captain Callum McGregor believes win in Madrid could transform team's European outlook

Captain Callum McGregor feels Celtic’s improving performances in Europe are gradually changing their mindset but he knows a big result in Spain could transform the club’s outlook.

The Hoops drew 2-2 with Atletico Madrid at Parkhead two weeks ago to collect their first point in Group E after three matches.

But they twice lost the lead, following a narrow setback against Lazio in their previous game, to continue their long wait for a group stage win in the Champions League.

Celtic have not taken three points from each of their last 12 games at this level and McGregor knows they need to change the narrative.

“I spoke before the last game that for us in European football there has to be a mentality change, there has to be a shift, where when we go on to the pitch then we believe and we don’t want to come off the pitch until we get a result,” the midfielder said.

“The performances have been getting better and better but the biggest thing that the players can take from that is trying to change that mentality – that there’s almost an expectation to succeed and to get through the group.

“We need a result that is going to change that mentality, and the way you approach the game, if you go into them full of confidence and almost expect a result.

“At some point the performance and probably what we deserve is translated into the result. That can be the catalyst for things moving forward.

“But the performance levels in the first few games in the group have been slowly moving forward.

“It’s a mindset switch that we have to come here, perform the way we want to, and back it up with a big result as well.”

Speaking from the Metropolitano Stadium, McGregor added: “This is a brilliant opportunity for the players, who are really excited to play in this stadium. We can’t wait, it’s a beautiful stadium.

“As a player you want to be playing in big stadiums, go and affect the game and show your personality.

“I’m sure we will do that as a group. We want to make sure it’s a positive experience for us.”