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Scotland captain Andy Robertson has acknowledged the need for the national team to regain the trust and support of their fans following a dismal Euro 2024 campaign. Speaking ahead of their upcoming Nations League matches against Poland and Portugal, Robertson stressed the importance of delivering strong performances to win back the love of the Scottish supporters.
Steve Clarke’s squad, who will host Poland at Hampden Park on Thursday before traveling to Lisbon to face Portugal on Sunday, are looking to bounce back after a disappointing group-stage exit in Germany, where they managed just one point from three matches.
“The summer was a low for all of us,” Robertson admitted. “But we have to move on from it. We have to be positive, otherwise it’s pointless being here. We have to believe.”
Robertson, who captains Liverpool, acknowledged that fans may be disappointed but emphasized that it’s up to the team to prove their commitment on the pitch. “Our country was right behind us in the summer. We get they’re disappointed, and now it’s up to us to drag them along with us again,” he said. “If we do that, we know our fans will come with us as well.”
The Scottish skipper revealed that he had discussions with Clarke over the summer to debrief the Euros, noting that it was the first time a camp review had more negatives than positives. Despite this, Robertson is optimistic about the future, particularly with the introduction of fresh talents like Ryan Gauld and Ben Doak.
However, he acknowledged the need for the team to improve their consistency, especially against stronger opponents. “We’ve done it previously but not all the time. That’s what we need to get better at, especially at tournaments,” Robertson added.
Team News and Clarke’s Fresh Approach
Injury issues have forced Clarke to bring in several new faces for the upcoming matches. Striker Che Adams, along with Celtic’s James Forrest and Greg Taylor, has been ruled out, while Dundee goalkeeper Jon McCracken has been called up. Ben Doak, Ryan Gauld, and Max Johnston are among the potential debutants in the squad.
Celtic captain Callum McGregor has retired from international duty, and Arsenal’s Kieran Tierney is still recovering from an injury sustained during Scotland’s Euro 2024 draw with Switzerland.
Clarke acknowledged the need for a “little bit of freshness” in the squad and expressed confidence that the new additions would bring enthusiasm and energy to the team. “For the young boys that have come into the squad, they’ve brought that enthusiasm, that breath of fresh air that galvanises and gives the senior players that little bit more life,” Clarke said.
Scotland’s Record Against Poland and Nations League Stats
Scotland’s recent form has been troubling, with only one win in their last 12 matches—a 2-0 friendly victory against Gibraltar, who are ranked 203rd in the world. They have also lost six of their last seven games against higher-ranked teams.
However, Scotland boasts a strong record in the Nations League, having won 10 of their 16 matches, the best win ratio of any nation in the competition. As Scotland prepares to face Poland, a team they have never beaten in a competitive match, Robertson could earn his 75th cap, joining an elite group of Scottish players.
