Anthony Ralston has gone from being a forgotten Celtic man to a possible star for Scotland in the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament.
With just 18 appearances under his belt for Brendan Rodgers, Ralston was a bit part player but his importance on the Celtic fringes cannot be underestimated.
However, that doesn’t mean that the 25-year-old hasn’t struggled with his status this season. How could he not?
A constant under Ange Postecoglou, Ralston has been used sparingly by Rodgers but when he has been called upon, he has not let the Celtic boss down.
And it is because of that I believe Scotland is set to benefit from the Celtic fullback’s presence in the summer tournament.
Ralston to ‘continue to work’ after Celtic ups and downs
Given the chance to show what he can do against Finland last Friday night, Ralston put in a very solid performance for Scotland and Steve Clarke.
Tipped to start against Germany, Ralston will be hoping to put his Celtic struggles to bed as he looks to help guide Scotland out of the group stages for the first time in their history.
Ralston said [Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser print edition page 36], “If it is myself that’s chosen, it would be a case of embracing it.
“My main thing would be that it wouldn’t be about me, it would be about the team and what my job is for the team, to give us the best chance of being successful, first and foremost.
“That would be my attitude going into the game.
“At club level, I’ve had to overcome things and a lot of players have had to do the same.
“At international level, I’ll continue to work to prove to myself as well as others.
“That’s part of football, it’s not an easy road. There are many ups and downs, so my aim is to work every day for club and international, and when the opportunity comes you take it.”
I am going to be honest, Ralston is one of my favourite players at the club. He wears his heart on his sleeve, gives his all in every game and my goodness can he pick out a pass.
Affectionately known as The Brickie amongst the Celtic support, Ralston is as solid as a wall when it comes to the challenge and Steve Clarke will be hoping that the Celtic defender will stand strong to help get a big result against Germany on Friday night.