Anthony Ralston is the gift that can’t be taken for granted at Celtic or with Scotland following another positive showing on the international stage against Croatia.
Despite only 232 minutes of action for the Bhoys this campaign, he continues to stand up during his country’s Nations League A campaign and has played every group stage game under Steve Clarke.
Last night, Scotland went into their penultimate clash knowing a win was the only option to keep their hopes of progression alive.
Ralston delivered a spirited showing against Croatia, forcing a clean sheet over the line as John McGinn’s late winner paid dividends.
With Scotland still having something to play for against Poland on Monday, Barry Ferguson has pointed out why Brendan Rodgers will love working with the Lennoxtown graduate on a daily basis.
Why Brendan Rodgers will love working with Anthony Ralston
Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Ferguson believes managers will love having Ralston at their disposal due to the fact he leaves ‘everything’ out on the pitch for club and country.
He stated: “Every time he’s been called upon, I think he’s done a fine job. I think he’s one of those players that managers love. He knows he’s not going to be the regular starter.
“For instance, at club football, he’s not going to play. Johnston is going to play in front of him. International football, he’s got Hickey and Patterson probably in front of him, but he’ll turn up whenever he is called upon.
“I think he’s done a good job. You know what you’re getting from him; he’ll give you everything he’s got.”
Anthony Ralston is showing his reliability on all fronts
Whether it be deputising at club level or coming in to feature for Scotland, Ralston never lets the side down and deserves credit for sticking to his task.
His existence at Celtic into the present day is a byproduct of hard work. Before Ange Postecoglou came to Parkhead, it appeared a certainty that he would leave without fulfilling his potential.
However, the power of recovery is a powerful tool in football that Ralston is reaping the rewards of three years down the line.
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