“It has been a crazy year or two”; Turnbull on rollercoaster journey to Euro squad

“There were times when everything went through my head. Will I get back playing? Will I get back to my best? It has been a crazy year or two since then. This probably tops it off.”

David Turnbull has had the most rollercoaster ride in his quest to make the Scottish National Team.

Firing on all cylinders in the youth ranks at Motherwell, and establishing hisself as one of the most talented prospects Scotland had to offer, the Wishaw-born midfielder burst onto the first-team scene in 2018/19 – scoring 15 goals in just 30 league appearances for The ‘Well at the age of just 19.

Celtic – amongst others – took interest, but when their interest came to fruition following a £3m bid, it was to be the next big step in Turnbull’s career development; or so he thought.

The routine medical that all new signings undergo showed knee problems, and Celtic pulled out of the deal. However, after a year of extreme rehabilitation under top surgeon Andy Williams, he forced his way back into the Motherwell side, prompting Celtic to respark their interests – and the rest is history.

Playing for your country, there’s nothing better than that

Photo: Stephen Dobson

His good performances for Celtic have earned him – rightfully – a spot in the national team set-up; and with just two days to go until the tournament, Turnbull has all the tools available to continue what has been a magnificent season for him by showing his quality on the continental stage.

Speaking to BBC Scotland, Turnbull was upbeat about his chances. “I had my fingers crossed for it, but obviously you need to take into consideration the players you’re up against. All my family were sitting in the living room when I got the text. I was absolutely delighted, and so were they. My mum gave me a big cuddle and a kiss; my brother and my dad were a bit reserved, they tried to keep calm, and I was the same.”

“Personally, I’ve been in good form. There have been some games we’ve struggled in, but I feel I’ve contributed well. In other games, I’ve scored plenty of goals and made plenty of assists. That’s what I want to try and add to this squad. Every game I play in, I’ll try to do my best for the team. I’m always ready. Whether I’m picked or not, if I come on as a substitute or whatever, I’ll be raring to go. Playing for your country, there’s nothing better than that.”

 

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2 Comments

  1. Red Scotland on

    David Turnbull will be a league winning player for us this coming season. He’s had a few months to settle in and the new manager will enjoy the best of David as will we the supporters. Great times ahead for the Celtic family, so let’s get behind the club.

    • Northamptontim on

      Totally with you there hopefully new coach will let him play and he be on high after the Euros . McGregor Soro as his midfield Forrest right wing new left winger that’s midfield . Rest hopefully scouted HH