Anthony Ralston has been excellent this season. That is a statement which few fair minded football fans will disagree with. He’s scored goals both domestically and in Europe, he’s made assists, last ditch clearances and has incredible work rate.
On Wednesday 15 December, it was Ralston who rose to Celtic’s rescue with a stunning header in the 97th minute at Dingwall. Playing through injury, he was rested in the Premier Sports Cup Final, but did come on for the last 15 minutes. Incidentally, the match in which he picked up his ankle knock was against Hearts when his stunning cross provided the assist for Kyogo’s match winning goal.
A week after being the hero in Dingwall, Ralston was forced to play through the pain barrier again as Celtic were ravaged by injuries and illness. The Hoops put in a disappointing display, resulting in a 0-0 draw against St Mirren. According to McAvennie, Ralston was poor in the game and this was a sign that he had gone backwards… within seven days of being a match winner!
15th December 2021; Victoria Park, Dingwall, Scotland, Scottish Premier league football, Ross County versus Celtic; Anthony Ralston of Celtic heads the winner for Celtic in the 97th minute making it 2-1 to Celtic
Speaking to Football Insider, McAvennie said: “I was at the St Mirren game and I thought, ‘Dear me he’s gone backwards’ (Ralston).
“Oh my God, he was hopeless. He looked bit-part. Honestly, he was playing like he had just come off a building site. He was just crashing around into people. That’s the player I was always convinced wouldn’t make it.
“He looked great earlier this season, that’s why he got the Scotland call-up. But he hasn’t looked the same and I was so disappointed with him against St Mirren. I was disappointed with everyone if I’m honest but Ralston was really poor.”
