Celtic defender Anthony Ralston has reacted to another Scotland disappointment with typical ambition.
The right-back, who has been a revelation since Ange Postecoglou began to rely on him, has been sensational. So far, he’s the Scottish Premiership’s top performer, according to WhoScored?.
Yesterday, the club announced he’d been rewarded with a new contract, to last until 2025. That, in itself, is evidence of the strides the 22-year-old has made in just four months.
The Scotland issue will rankle, though. Ralston has impressed in European and domestic action. In 900 league minutes thus far, he’s even chipped in with 3 goals and 2 assists.
When asked about it ahead of Celtic’s game against Ferencvaros, Ralston was diplomatic. But in his voice, he couldn’t hide a hint of justified annoyance.
Ralston said [Celtic FC]:
“I’ve just been focused on playing for Celtic. That’s my main aim, and that’s my priority. It’d obviously be an honour to be called up for my country, and I’ll keep working day-in day-out, in each game that I play.
“My main focus, like I said is Celtic. Hopefully, one day, I’ll be able to fulfil that call-up.
“But for now it’s just focusing on playing for my club and that’s where my focus is at.”
Anthony Ralston won’t be distracted, but Celtic fans are annoyed with Scotland rejection
If you’re looking for conspiracies on why certain players get picked for Scotland over others, you won’t find them here. Steve Clarke has been consistent to a fault; players who haven’t necessarily shone on club duty have been trusted time and again by the Scotland manager.
In fairness, you can’t argue with the results. Scotland qualified for Euro 2020, and look decent value to make the Qatar World Cup. But it is baffling that the Celtic man just doesn’t get a look-in at all.
For us, it’s a head-scratcher. What it does mean, though, is that the Holy Brickie will be able to play more matches for Celtic. The work he’s doing in training with Ange Postecoglou is very obviously paying off. Him having more time to do just that is no problem for us.
However, it’s what he deserves. Ralston has already proven himself as an example for Academy players to follow. His story will surely include caps for Scotland and trophies for Celtic before too long.
Fair play to him, too, for keeping his cool. Being asked about it has to be frustrating.
Read more: Celtic boss delivers brilliant defence of Giorgos Giakouamkis at media conference
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