It has been an incredible 12 months for Celtic full-back Anthony Ralston.
This time last year, it look destined that the 23-year olds future would be away from Parkhead after failing to make the breakthrough under Neil Lennon.
However, as Ange Postecoglou arrived at Celtic, the club was in a predicament regarding their options at right-back.
This provided Ralston with the opportunity to sign a one-year deal, and the rest is history.
The academy graduate went on to become a key contributor for Ange Postecoglou’s side, scoring five goals and providing nine assists across 47 games.
During the early parts of the season, Postecoglou relied heavily upon Ralston with his lack of options before signing Josip Juranovic.
Despite facing stiff competition for his place, Ralston continued to contribute and impress whenever he was given an opportunity in the Celtic side.
His form over the last year has now led to a call-up for the Scotland National team, being named as part of Steve Clarke’s 28-man squad.
Tonight, the Tartan Army face one of their biggest matches in recent years, facing Ukraine at Hampden Park for a place in the World Cup play-off finals.
And Ralston is now in-line for a start at right wing-back for his nation.
With Everton full-back Nathan Patterson officially ruled out of tonight’s game, Clarke has a choice between Stephen O’Donnell and Ralston as to who will start on the right-hand side of the defence. [Daily Record]
After a brilliant year, which has seen Ralston contribute to a league and cup double for Celtic, he is in with a real chance of an opportunity at Hampden Park this evening, in one of the biggest Scotland matches for years.
Who could imagine saying that this time last year?
Ralston deserves huge praise for career turnaround
After failed loan spells at the likes of Dundee United and St Johnstone, many expected Ralston to move on at the beginning of last summer.
He may have been handed a small slice of luck with the lack of full-backs at the beginning of the season. However, you cannot deny that Ralston has more than earned his place within this Celtic squad.
In just 12 months, he has gone from a player who many were unconvinced by to a trusted member of Postecoglou’s side and a great option to have for each game.
Earlier in the season, he made his Scotland debut with a short cameo against Denmark. Tonight, he could go one step further and make his first start on a huge stage.
And that would be a well-deserved reward for the hard work this season.
In other news, Reports: Taylor Harwood-Bellis set for wait to decide future amidst Celtic interest.
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