Anthony Ralston has gained some valuable match practice ahead of his return to Celtic duties after featuring in Scotland’s opening two Nations League fixtures against Poland and Portugal.
The 25-year-old has featured three times off the bench for the Bhoys this term, scoring once against Kilmarnock on Flag Day.
Steve Clarke’s continued injury crisis at right-back meant Ralston started for Scotland against Poland last Thursday. On a mixed evening, the Celtic man claimed an assist and was penalised for a challenge that led to a penalty that the visitors converted.
Three days later, he performed admirably away to Portugal. Despite being up against the might of Rafael Leao, the Lennoxtown graduate stuck to his task and wasn’t caught out positionally despite having to defend for most of the 90 minutes.
Showing the spirit that has made him such a loved figure at Celtic, Simon Donnelly has paid tribute to his mental fortitude shown over the international break.
Anthony Ralston’s mentality during international break
Speaking on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard, Donnelly commended Ralston for his ability not to let circumstances phase him during matches. He also noted the fact that he is doing a fine job for Scotland despite not being a regular starter at club level.
He stated: “I think, with Ralston, I think a lot of it’s mentality. Because he came in for a bit of stick in the Euros. The other night, after making the mistake, it’s a clumsy tackle for the penalty, but he’s there for the assist.
“He can put mistakes behind him; we know he’s not even the regular at Celtic, but he’s in there now, and he’s doing a job.”
Host Ewan Cameron interjected after that, saying: “He did well last night against Leao. Great performance all in all from Ralston and from Gilmour, who stood out, and McTominay, who was outstanding.”
Celtic fans know all about Anthony Ralston’s resilience
It is safe to say that Celtic fans know more than most about Ralston’s resilient qualities, even when questions have been asked about the Scotland international.
In 2021, the defender looked all but certain to leave the club after failing to establish himself. However, Ange Postecoglou offered him an olive branch on a one-year contract that kickstarted his remarkable turnaround into a first-team asset.
Above all, Ralston will give you full-blooded commitment no matter the circumstances. His determination to succeed is admirable and he is the type of character that is desired within the squad.
Hopefully, he can build on his latest involvement at international level to play a part for the Bhoys in their quest for success.
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