Anthony Ralston can make an impact at the Euro 2024. Which is good news for both club and country…
Anthony Ralston played the entire 90 minutes of last night’s friendly international against Finland as Scotland played their last game before next Friday’s Euro 2024 opener against Germany in Munich.
The game ended in a disappointing 2-2 draw for the Scots after being two goals to the good, but it’s only a warm up for the real thing and Tony gave a good account of himself in the right wing back role.
With injury ruling out the likes of Aaron Hickey and (hugely overrated) Nathan Patterson it’s given Tony a chance that might not have been possible just a few short months ago.
Last night he took that chance by putting in a fine performance and in doing so has done his chances of starting against the Germans next Friday no harm at all.
Tony might not have played as much as he would have liked last season, but he’s an experienced player and has the talent necessary to occupy the role that Steve Clarke deployed him in against Finland.
The starting line up last night is most likely similar to the one that will start against the Germans, so it looks like Tony will be handed a dream opportunity to pit his wits against the likes of Thomas Muller, Toni Kroos and Kai Havertz.
If so he won’t let anyone down. Tony has the opportunity to make his mark in a major international tournament, an opportunity that would not only rekindle his international career but his club career also.
A good showing at Euro 2024 would give him great confidence when he comes back to Celtic. He’s very much seen as back up to Alistair Johnston, but the experience of a good euros would make him a better player and give the Canadian more serious competition in that right back role. Brendan Rodgers has already confirmed that he plans to use Ralston much more next season and that must have given Tony a massive boost ahead of joining Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad.
It’s just about taking your chances when they come, and Raldo has the strength and ability to do that. Tony could indeed make an impact at the Euro 2024, benefiting both club and country.
Just an Ordinary Bhoy
Very impressive performance from Anthony Ralston for Scotland tonight.
Definitely in with a shout of starting vs Germany next week 👏🏼🏴 pic.twitter.com/nFlRR1qFj7
— Everything Celtic (@aboutceltic) June 7, 2024