Celtic defender Anthony Ralston could be set for some landmark moments this summer if he features for Scotland at EURO 2024.
From a club perspective, he has been an able deputy for Alistair Johnston this term, making 18 appearances across all competitions and registering two assists in the process [Transfermarkt].
Ralston has never been one to shy away from battles at Celtic, carving out his squad status through hard graft and learning under each manager.
Despite not always being the first name on the teamsheet, his commitment and professionalism are the mark of a champion. Without players willing to wait for their opportunity, the Bhoys wouldn’t be able to achieve regular success.
Now, in the midst of an injury crisis at right-back, Scotland have called him into their squad to head to Germany, and there is every chance he could help the Tartan Army make history this summer.
Earning respect from fellow professionals, Motherwell defender Stephen O’Donnell has offered his verdict on why the Lennoxtown academy graduate may be a man for Steve Clarke to lean on at the championships.
Stephen O’Donnell on Anthony Ralston’s qualities
Speaking to The Daily Record, O’Donnell has tipped Ralston to get the nod over Ross McCrorie to start in Scotland’s EURO 2024 opener against Germany.
Explaining his reasons, the 32-year-old cited his previous experience of handling high-pressure fixtures in Glasgow’s east end as a quality that will stand him in good stead to handle the threat of Julian Nagelsmann’s men.
He stated: “I’d tip Tony to play. He has played a number of times for Scotland and always performed well.
“He has played in so many big games and is used to the pressure at Celtic, so all these things are positives for him to get that slot. That was Ross’ first game earlier in the week, while Tony has been in the setup now for a while and has a bit more experience.
He maybe hasn’t been involved as much for Celtic towards the end of the season, but he was training right up to the cup final so he would have been working a bit longer than Ross in the Championship, which finished a bit earlier.
“There’s a whole host of reasons and If Ross plays, there is absolutely no harm because Ross has had a very good season as well. I think Tony has done exceptionally well and I am looking forward to seeing how he performs.”
From his showings over the last few years, Ralston is more than capable of holding his own against elite talent.
Brendan Rodgers has already indicated he could use the Glasgow-born man more next season, showing his belief in the defender and his capacity to thrive at Parkhead.
If he can do the same with his country in Germany, he may bolster his chances of regular club involvement. Either way, Ralston is a valiant servant who gives his maximum every time he enters the field of play.