Anthony Ralston may not have expected to be starting the opening match at this summer’s EURO 2024 tournament given his lack of football at Celtic this season, but he’s now in pole position to do exactly that.
Ralston has been installed back into the Scotland eleven after a two-year wait following injuries to Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson.
The Celtic right-back was selected by national team manager Steve Clarke on Friday night and fully justified his ninth cap, performing pretty well in a wing-back role.
He was busy on and off the ball and, despite Scotland only managing a 2-2 draw, the 25-year-old will be personally pleased he came through the test.
For BBC Sportsound pundit Willie Miller, it’s now hard to look past Ralston being named in Clarke’s side again for the huge competition opener against Germany in Munich.
Willie Miller on Anthony Ralston’s EURO 2024 chances
The former Scotland international stated that Ralston had “nailed it” in post-match analysis, adding: “Anthony Ralston did very well. Not outstanding by any means but he’s pretty solid. He looked comfortable and confident.
“I think he’s done enough to put a very strong case forward to start against Germany.”
Ralston is one of four Celtic stars representing Scotland at the summer tournament. Bhoys captain Callum McGregor, James Forrest and Greg Taylor have all also been confirmed to be on the plane.
McGregor and Ralston are the most likely starters, with Forrest and Taylor expected to play depth roles or make appearances from the substitutes bench.
Scotland haven’t often qualified for these events so it’s a massive opportunity for all. Full of confidence having achieved a league and cup double, they’ll be dreaming of continuing that glory into the summer.