CELTIC striker Leigh Griffiths has spoken about the decision by Scotland boss Alex McLeish to state publicly that Hearts forward Steven Naismith will remain Scotland striker for the next international match against Israel.
“It’s a kick in the teeth, not just for me but for all the strikers,” Griffiths said.
“It’s an incentive to work hard at our clubs and try to change his mind.
“I was surprised as well. These things happen. Naisy came in and did really well. He scored, ran about, and did his job.
“I was a bit surprised to see he has already selected him for the next game.
“But that’s his choice. If he wants to make that call, it’s fine.
“I’ll be working harder at my club to prove him wrong, and to try to get in the side.
“I wouldn’t say I done enough, not against Belgium anyway. It was always going to be hard against that class of opponent.
“You just need to take these things on the chin. I’ve had setbacks with Scotland before, this was another one.
“I’ll just got away and work even harder to make sure I am on top form the next time the internationals come around.”
Griffiths who last week signed his new 4 year deal which will keep him at Parkhead until 2022 is well used to proving people in the game wrong and his sights are now set on doing exactly that with the Scotland boss.
“I have been doubted my whole life – but I keep shooting people down. It seems every season I have to prove people wrong.
“I do my talking on the pitch, that means doing well for Celtic and putting the ball in the back of the net.”
