Celtic will have recognition at EURO 2024 this summer as provisional squad selections from competing nations start to roll in.
With the Hoops’ season set to end this Saturday once the Scottish Cup final is over, some players will jet off on holiday to all corners of the world, enjoying a deserved rest after a successful campaign.
Nevertheless, for others, the chance to make themselves a hero in Germany will have to suffice despite the championships putting their plans for a vacation on hold.
Earlier today, we discussed that Celtic quartet Callum McGregor, Anthony Ralston, James Forrest and Greg Taylor have all been included in Steve Clarke’s provisional 28-man squad, which will be cut to 26 players over the coming weeks.
On that token, the Tartan Army boss has revealed his motivation for picking one Celtic man for the finals as he finalises plans for a potentially historic summer.
Steve Clarke on why James Forrest merited Scotland inclusion
Veteran winger Forrest has enjoyed a recent renaissance under Brendan Rodgers, which has taken his tally to seven goals and two assists in 27 appearances across all competitions for Celtic [Transfermarkt].
Speaking in his press conference after announcing his squad, Clarke paid tribute to the 32-year-old for his ‘fantastic’ application despite spending periods out of contention, leading him to earn a chance to star for his country in spite of not being called up since 2021.
He stated: “James Forrest. Where do you start? If ever there is an example to young players on how to conduct yourself if things are not going well for you at your club, James epitomises that.
“Train well, work well, keep your head down, keep believing and you never know, maybe the head coach will pick you for your country and that’s what he’s done.
“He has had a fantastic finish to the season. He has caught the manager’s eye and again he will be one that grabs your attention with the finish to the season.
“You think, ‘Wow, James is back to where he was three or four years ago’, which is a credit to him and something I didn’t think I could overlook. He obviously brings experience; he was part of the squad in the last Euros, so it will be nice to see James again.”
James Forrest has earned his chance at international level
Forrest has had to fight competition for his place at Celtic, forcing his way in from the periphery to play a crucial part in his side’s Scottish Premiership title victory.
Physically, he may not possess the same stamina as he once did; however, his ball retention and experience have given the Bhoys a totally different outball on either flank during their time of need.
Come Saturday, there is a good chance Rodgers will give the Prestwick-born man the nod to start against Rangers, where he can hopefully cement his place in Clarke’s final squad with a match-winning performance.