Celtic defender Anthony Ralston has received a late call-up to the Scotland National Team replacing former Celt Jack Hendry in Steve Clarke’s squad. Ralston’s call-up now brings the total number of Celtic players away on international duty in the coming weeks to 9.
Originally overlooked for selection, Ralston is now in line to add to his 6 Caps for Scotland in the upcoming European Championship Qualifiers against Cyprus and Spain.
The fullback has endured a stop/start season so far with injuries and the form of first Josip Juranovic and latterly Alistair Johnston limiting his game time.
Ralston enjoyed what can only be described as his breakout season last term, featuring in a career high of 47 games, scoring 5 goals along the way. None more important than the 97th minute winner away at Ross County.
He returned to the Celtic starting line-up against Hearts recently after a 10 game absence, putting in a fine performance despite some early signs of rustiness.
Along with Greg Taylor, Ralston is generally perceived as being the most improved player in the Celtic squad since Ange Postecoglou’s arrival. From being unable to displace John-Joe Kenny to International fullback, Ralston’s rise over the past 18 months has been sensational.
INTERNATIONAL BRIGADE
The other Celts on international duty in the coming weeks include captain Callum McGregor who is on course to win his 50th cap for Scotland.
Daizen Maeda will represent Japan as they host the Kirin Cup which also includes Oh’s South Korea, although the two nations will not meet each other.
Transfer rumour target Liel Abada is away with Israel, Sead Haksabanovic will be out to impress for Montenegro, while Carl Starfelt and Conor Hazard have made the Sweden and Northern Ireland squads, respectively.
Rounding off the international brigade is Alistair Johnston, the man currently keeping Anthony Ralston out of the Celtic first-team. Johnston will represent Canada in their upcoming Concacaf Nations League fixtures.
It goes without saying that everyone at ACSOM wishes the Celtic players well in their international endeavours, but more than anything, we hope they come back to Paradise free from injury and ready to take on Ross County.
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