Scotland captain Andy Robertson is being urged by manager Steve Clarke to deliver a career-defining performance as the national team stands on the brink of World Cup history. The Scots require a favourable outcome against five-time champions Brazil on Wednesday in Miami to secure a place in the knockout stages, a feat never before achieved by the nation.
Having secured three points from their initial Group C encounters against Haiti and Morocco, a draw against the formidable South American side would effectively guarantee Scotland's progression in the tournament. Speaking from Miami Stadium, Clarke expressed immense confidence in his 32-year-old skipper, who is nearing a century of caps for his country.
Clarke lauded Robertson's leadership qualities, stating, "He’s been a fantastic captain for Scotland. He’s closing in on the record number of caps. He deserves to be here. He’s worked ever so hard for the country. He leads this group of players like the leader he is and he’s very, very important to me and the squad. So obviously I want the best for him. I want him to have the best night of his life tomorrow night."
Robertson himself acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge, looking forward to facing one of football's most iconic nations. "It’s one that we look forward to. We are playing against a massive country, the most iconic in World Cups, obviously most decorated," he commented. He added, however, that the match also presents a unique opportunity for Scotland to achieve its aspirations: "But it also gives us an opportunity to achieve our dreams as well. We want to achieve history for our little country. We have an opportunity to do that tomorrow night."
The left-back also anticipates a direct confrontation with former Liverpool teammate Alisson Becker, whom he regards as the "best keeper in the world." While admiring Alisson's abilities, Robertson playfully expressed hopes for a rare off-night for the Brazilian shot-stopper. He reflected on their eight years together at Anfield: "I was very lucky to play with Ali for the last eight years and in big moments Ali was always there for us. Even when our defence was at its best sometimes teams would get through and we would always rely on Ali to go and make the saves. Unbelievable goalkeeper, an even better person."
Despite his high regard, Robertson concluded with a competitive edge: "I hope he’s picking the ball out of the net maybe a couple of times tomorrow, more usual than I’m used to, but he’s the best keeper in the world for me and he has been for so many years. I can’t speak highly enough of him as a player and a person. But like I said, hopefully tomorrow he doesn’t keep a clean sheet."
Source: UKPulse Media Interview