Steve Clarke’s verdict on Anthony Ralston after Celtic man stars in Scotland draw vs Portugal

After Anthony Ralston’s solid performance against Croatia last weekend, the Celtic right-back was rewarded with another start against Cristiano Ronaldo, Diogo Jota and company, with pressure on the Tartan Army to stop the rot amid a poor run of form.

Rising to the challenge, the Hoops’ defender formed part of a defensively robust backline that were able to defy the visitors despite having to deal with sustained pressure on the night.

Earning his credit, the media were impressed with Ralston’s performance against Portugal after holding his own against some of the world’s finest players.

Post-match, Steve Clarke shared what he thought of the Celtic man following his part in a hard-earned point that has got his side on the board in the Nations League.

Steve Clarke shares verdict on Celtic’s Anthony Ralston

Speaking after the game, Clarke lauded Ralston for his ability to thrive against ‘difficult opponents’ as he helped Scotland claim a much-needed result before being replaced by Nicky Devlin late on in proceedings.

He stated [Scottish Football Podcast]: “I think defensively, you have to credit everybody. Tony Ralston, good against difficult opponents.

“Jota and then Leao comes off (the bench), I think Leao coming off the bench was what ultimately done for Tony’s calves. It was why Nicky got on the pitch.”

Later, he added on the wider defensive display that Ralston was a part of: “I think we always try and do the right thing, we always try to be solid defensively. Recently, we’ve had one or two little lapses in certain moments in the game that cost you dearly.

“Tonight, maybe at times we got a little bit fortunate, but nobody can deny us the fortune.”

Towards the end, Ralston did start to waver ever so slightly after waves of relentless attacks from the opposition, but he can hold his head high after another solid night for his national side.

Anthony Ralston enjoyed a good night against Portugal

Stat-trackers reflect Ralston’s valuable contribution against Portugal, with Fotmob having him down as completing 31 out of his 38 attempted passes and threading four balls into the final third.

Defensively, where he makes his money, the Celtic star completed nine defensive actions, including three clearances, two interceptions and winning four duels.

While Alistair Johnston remains first choice under Brendan Rodgers, the Irishman knows he has a reliable deputy in reserve that can come in against any level of opposition and stand up to scrutiny.

Following further exposure on the international scene, Ralston now heads back to Celtic determined to make his mark.

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