He was released for being too small in his time at Lennoxtown, but that frankly horrendous decision has, in hindsight, paid huge dividends for Champions League winner Andy Robertson.
The Glaswegian, who was on the books at Celtic from primary school age until 15, where he was told to find pastures new due to concerns about his physical growth.
Since leaving Celtic, Robertson went to fellow Glasgow outfit Queen’s Park, and after impressing there rose to stardom at Dundee United. Andy’s rejection made him more determined to succeed, a decision he said has benefitted his career by proving that he can cut it at the big level.
His reputation and honours in the game following the trip to Tannadice are known to many a football fan; a Premier League medal and Champions League medal speak for themselves, as the man brought up in Maryhill has long established himself as one of the best wing-backs in world football.
I’d love to pull on a Celtic shirt, but I don’t want to be an old fart when I go up there.
However, the boyhood Celt – who had a season ticket at Paradise up until he signed for Queen’s Park at 18 – has reiterated his desire to finish his career in the East End of Glasgow on numerous occasions; most recently in an interview with fellow Glaswegian Peter Martin.
Speaking to PLZ Soccer, the Scottish national team captain said: “You know, I’d love to play for Celtic. When I was growing up and I was a young boy I said I’d give my best years to Celtic, and I don’t want to go there when I’m old and I have all of my mates hating on me because I can’t perform the way I used to.”
“I’d love to retire at this club, but if not I’d love to pull on a Celtic shirt, but I don’t want to be an old fart when I go up there. I want to still be able to play well, and if I can’t do that I will get my mates hating on me, that’s for sure.”
Promising signs to hear that one of the world’s best crossers, wing-backs and professionals is willing to make a return to Celtic Park should the opportunity arise – let’s hope it comes true…
