Formerly known for his on-field controversies and fiery demeanor, Ryan Porteous has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a key player for both club and country as he gears up for Euro 2024.
The 25-year-old defender, once embroiled in disputes with the likes of Steven Gerrard and familiar with more than his fair share of red cards, now finds himself at the heart of Watford’s defense, showcasing maturity and consistency since his move to the Hornets in January 2023.
With an impressive tally of 10 appearances for the national team under his belt, Porteous appears destined to play a pivotal role for Scotland at the upcoming European Championship.
Reflecting on his tumultuous years in Scottish football, Porteous acknowledges a certain relief in leaving behind the contentious refereeing decisions that often seemed to target him. “Not the referees, anyway,” he remarks, hinting at the challenges he faced. “It was one of those things that I had a target on my back and couldn’t get rid of it. So coming down here was a fresh start.”
Life at Watford seems to offer a calmer environment for Porteous, with manager Tom Cleverley demonstrating a supportive approach, particularly evident in his decision to allow Porteous to miss the final Championship match to rest ahead of Euro 2024. Cleverley’s understanding of the importance of international duty speaks volumes about his management style.
Despite some self-interest in Cleverley’s decision, given Porteous’s disciplinary record, the opportunity for rest ahead of the tournament is invaluable for the defender, who could play a crucial role for Scotland in Germany.
Looking back at Scotland’s recent performances, including friendly defeats against the Netherlands and Northern Ireland, Porteous acknowledges the challenges faced by the team. Mental fatigue, he suggests, might have played a role, especially following the demanding qualifying campaign.
Yet, despite the setbacks, Porteous remains optimistic about Scotland’s prospects at Euro 2024. With the opening match against hosts Germany looming, he expresses his ambition to secure a spot in the starting lineup and contribute to Scotland’s journey in the tournament.