As the fallout from the poor performance of the national team continues, the Scotland internationalist and Celtic player has responded to claims by Mark Wotte, the Scottish Football Association's Dutch performance director, that a poor diet is, in part, to blame for the current struggle.

Mulgrew, who was part of Craig Levein's squad against Wales and Belgium, came through the youth system at Parkhead before leaving then returning to the club for a second spell in 2010.

The 26-year-old believes the desire to win at all costs when players are developing, rather than a poor lifestyle, is a contributory factor in the present ills of the national team. "I don't think so [the problems are with diet], but at a young age there is a lot of emphasis on winning in Scotland. Coming through when you are young player it is all about winning and a lot less about performances and I think that is a big problem.

"When I was younger, I remember a lot of emphasis was on winning the game and it didn't matter as long as you won and that's wrong. Even at Celtic at a young age, it was about winning and I think you have to have that mentality. But when you are young the most important thing is your ability and technique and that shows in other countries.

"I don't know what it is like abroad, but I don't think it would be as much as about winning. The emphasis has got to be on technical ability from a very young age and less about winning, because I think that's a problem."

Mulgrew, though, was quick to defend the players available to Levein. "There are a lot of good players in the squad and a lot playing at a very good level," he said. "A couple of decisions went against us, but I think we have to be positive and work together as a nation, the press and the players, and hopefully we can get results in the future."

While the national team is struggling, Celtic are enjoying life in the Champions League this term. The Parkhead club are in second place behind Barcelona in their section and face the Catalan giants at Camp Nou on Tuesday night.

Mulgrew admits it will be the biggest game of his career, although he is reluctant to look past the trip to Paisley to face St Mirren today.

"I think Celtic are flying the flag well," he said. "We are looking to progress as far as we can and that can only be good for Scottish football. It is a huge game for everyone at the club and we'll enjoy every minute. But first we need to concentrate on St Mirren."