Celtic defender Anthony Ralston is receiving his fair share of acclaim today following his role in Scotland’s Friday night victory over Croatia in the Nations League.
On a night when the home side had to wait until the 85th minute to break the visitors’ resolve, there was more than a tinge of Celtic involvement at Hampden Park.
Holding relevance to the current climate, Anthony Ralston earned positive media ratings in Scotland’s win against Croatia. Despite his lack of club minutes, the 26-year-old continues to make an impression under Steve Clarke when called upon.
Meanwhile, Bhoys academy graduate Ben Doak played a starring role in front of his old teammate, who left Josko Gvardiol trailing in his wake at times during proceedings on Glasgow’s southside.
Stuart Armstrong came off the bench to make a late cameo appearance, while Ryan Christie started, and Greg Taylor was an unused substitute.
While Celtic fans patiently await the return of club football, here is what Ralston had to say after another excellent display in Scotland colours.
Anthony Ralston reacts to vital Scotland victory vs Croatia
Speaking to Sky Sports, Ralston admitted he and his teammates were happy to alleviate the pain of a frustrating run of results by claiming three points against Croatia on home soil.
He stated: “Croatia are a top team. They’ve got top players; we were aware of that coming into the game, but we knew especially from the last camp that the performances were there.
“It was just the end result, but none of us were content with that. So to come away with a result, especially against a team like Croatia, we’re very happy with.”
Playing in every one of Scotland’s clashes during the Nations League campaign, Ralston will be determined to help secure another vital result against Poland on the final day before returning to Lennoxtown.
Celtic Academy product Ben Doak singled out by Ralston
Furthering his conversation with PLZ Soccer, Ralston singled out former Celtic man Doak for his fearless display on the right-hand side that saw both dovetail to form a dynamic partnership.
Some Celtic fans may be wondering what could’ve been with the Liverpool youngster, who is now on loan at Middlesbrough in the Sky Bet Championship.
Ralston stated: “We know Ben’s qualities; he’s rapid, and his quality is there as well. You see it with the ball in that the keeper and John puts it in.
“Fair play to him; he’s come into the team and been a lease of life down the right. He’s helping me; he makes me look good! He’s done brilliant and he just needs to keep his head down and keep going.”
Undoubtedly, Ralston will have a job on his hands in unseating Alistair Johnston at Celtic. However, his exploits last night on the international stage serve as a timely reminder of his capabilities.
Before rounding off, it is worth noting that he turns 26 today, so we offer many happy returns to Ralston from all at 67 Hail Hail!
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