Rangers confirmed that Nathan Patterson was unavailable for the game today after being forced to self-isolate. The right-back had been included in Steve Clarke’s squad for the three International games over the next ten days but given that he was identified as a close contact, it remains unclear whether he will be able to play for Scotland.
Ralston, a product of Celtic’s Academy, has played every game so far this season and with each game, he has impressed even more. The young defender is developing at an excellent rate and he had been one of the names discussed with a potential call-up when Clarke named his side. However, the manager decided to stick with Stephen O’Donnell and Patterson. Although, as is the case with John McGinn, COVID-19 may force Patterson to miss the game and open up the opportunity for Ralston.
O’Donnell missed Motherwell’s win over Dundee on Saturday and he may yet have to withdraw from the squad, which again can only mean that Ralston would be in line for a call-up.
Ralston started the summer as Celtic’s only right back and was the subject of criticism from sections of the support. However, under Ange Postecoglou there has been a rebirth for Ralston. He was one of Celtic’s standouts against Rangers earlier today, the 22-year-old had the measure of Ryan Kent and even kept new signing Josip Juranovic out of his preferred right-back role.
The form of Ralston thus far suggests that Juranovic will not displace him from the side straight away and as a result, the Croatian Internationalist will likely have to settle for a place at left-back when the team returns from international duty.
Scotland face Denmark away on Wednesday before hosting Moldova on Saturday before traveling to Austria for the final fixture next Tuesday. Given the importance of these fixtures to qualification, Clarke will surely not want to risk Patterson’s involvement if he is only available for a short spell of the camp.
