Celtic have plenty of players putting their best foot forward this campaign and Anthony Ralston is right in the mix after his latest two international performances.
Despite being limited to just one start this campaign, the 25-year-old has recently been Steve Clarke’s answer for Scotland at right-back due to their injury problems.
Becoming a central figure in their Nations League efforts, Anthony Ralston delivered a solid display against Croatia that earned the approval of the media amid a lack of minutes at club level.
After that, Portugal travelled to Hampden, containing a list of star-studded opponents such as Diogo Jota, Rafael Leao and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Once again, Ralston put in an excellent showing at home to Portugal, further emphasising his value for club and country.
Now, John Hartson has explained why the Celtic man deserves more credit than he is afforded in some quarters.
Celtic hero John Hartson’s glowing Anthony Ralston praise
Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Hartson indicated the only reason Ralston isn’t a starter for Celtic is due to Alistair Johnston’s quality in the right-back position.
He explained: “No he doesn’t, he always takes his opportunity. I know sometimes people are always looking for a scapegoat, but I think everybody at Celtic knows he’s not quite as gifted as Alistair Johnston on that right-back side, but he’s always there, and he always comes in to deputise.
“He doesn’t let anybody down, he gets in there, he’s always fit, he gets up and down, his delivery sometimes can be really good. He’s a good defender, and I really, really like him as a player. He’s played a lot of games over the years now for Celtic.
“It’s only because Alistair Johnston is such a fantastic player defensively and going forward and he’s been playing really well this season, otherwise Ralston would no doubt be in the Celtic first-team every week if it wasn’t for Alistair Johnston.”
Celtic fans recognise the importance of Anthony Ralston
While others are free to cast aspersions, Celtic fans are well aware of Ralston’s importance and why players like the Lennoxtown graduate are critical for continued success at the club.
Ultimately, football is a squad game. Commitment and professionalism is key, which are both qualities the Scotland international possesses in spades.
Hopefully, he can continue to thrive when called upon for club and country. Loyalty is a rarity in the modern game, but it is a trait Ralston has always possessed since breaking through the ranks in 2017.
Whether coming off the bench or as a starter, he always leaves it all out on the pitch and deserves respect for his displays.
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