Huge Anthony Ralston Euro 2024 Opportunity Emerges

A significant opportunity has arisen for Celtic right-back Anthony Ralston not just to gain a place on the Scotland plane to Germany this summer but to start for his country in the tournament.

Indeed, in Chelsea’s 6-0 thumping of Everton last night, Scotland international Nathan Patterson had to be withdrawn through injury after making his first appearance for the Toffees since the end of January.

Manager Sean Dyche spoke of a “serious” hamstring issue post-match, delivering a “wait and see” verdict (The Scotsman).

One assumes Patterson could be out for a prolonged period. This, combined with the fact Aaron Hickey won’t play for Brentford before the season is out (RecordSport), presents a colossal chance for Ralston.

The 25-year-old was included in Steve Clarke’s squad for the national team’s March friendlies. He seems to be third-choice right-back which means if Hickey and Patterson are both unavailable for some, if not all, of the Euros, the Celtic man could well line up for the Scots in Germany.

Ralston has played for the Men’s A squad eight times, scoring once in those Games.

Some may present the argument for players like Stephen O’Donnell and Max Johnston to get opportunities in light of the recent injury issues, but Ralston possesses the experience the latter doesn’t and the quality that is missing from the Game of the former.

Having played in Europe with Celtic countless times over the years, he knows the level required and would have no qualms coming into the team.

Given he has been called up in recent times, Clarke trusts him and should Patterson and/or Hickey not be available in time for June, Ralston will in all likelihood get the call.