Allan McGregor: Retirement Looms for the Legendary Keeper

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 01: Allan McGregor of Rangers is seen during the UEFA Champions League group A match between Rangers FC and AFC Ajax at Ibrox Stadium on November 01, 2022 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 01: Allan McGregor of Rangers is seen during the UEFA Champions League group A match between Rangers FC and AFC Ajax at Ibrox Stadium on November 01, 2022 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Allan McGregor is gearing up to face his toughest challenge yet as Rangers takes on Celtic this weekend.

Rangers veteran goalkeeper Allan McGregor is set to face a tough challenge at Parkhead on Saturday, as his team takes on Celtic in a crucial fixture.

McGregor has played over 500 matches for Rangers and is considered a true legend of the club. However, at 41 years old, his prime days are likely over, and former teammate Allan Hutton has hinted that this could be his last season.

Despite his age, Rangers will be relying on McGregor to play a key role in their bid to grab a glimmer of hope in the title race.

A victory over Celtic would cut the points gap to six, giving Rangers a huge confidence boost ahead of the Scottish Cup semi-final at the end of the month.

Hutton, who played alongside McGregor at both Ibrox and for the Scottish national team, believes that McGregor could potentially play on for another season.

ALICANTE, SPAIN – OCTOBER 11: Goalkeeper Allan McGregor of Scotland reacts after conceding his sides third goal backdropped by his teammate Alan Hutton of Scotland during the UEFA EURO 2012 Group I Qualifier between Spain and Scotland at the Rico Perez stadium on October 11, 2011 in Alicante, Spain. (Photo by Jasper Juinen/Getty Images)
ALICANTE, SPAIN – OCTOBER 11: Goalkeeper Allan McGregor of Scotland reacts after conceding his sides third goal backdropped by his teammate Alan Hutton of Scotland during the UEFA EURO 2012 Group I Qualifier between Spain and Scotland at the Rico Perez stadium on October 11, 2011 in Alicante, Spain. (Photo by Jasper Juinen/Getty Images)

However, he thinks that McGregor’s retirement is more likely at the end of this campaign, particularly if Rangers win through to Hampden in their bid to retain the Cup.

"Speaking to Football Insider, Hutton said, “At the age of 41 now he is no spring chicken. But, me personally, I think this will be his final year.They have announced his testimonial come pre-season which is a great thing but I can’t see him staying. I do believe he has still got it in him, he has showed that this year. But I think this will be his last one.”While McGregor’s retirement would be a loss for Rangers, his legacy at the club is already secured. With his experience and skill, McGregor has been a key player for Rangers for many years, helping the team to win multiple titles and cups."

As the season draws to a close, Rangers fans will be hoping to see Allan McGregor go out on a high, with a strong performance against their arch-rivals Celtic.