Playing for your country for the first time is daunting. Coming up against some of the world’s best at the same time makes it an even harder challenge. That’s exactly what Kilmarnock’s Greg Taylor was dealing with against Belgium. He handled it superbly.
The left-back had to deputise for captain Andy Robertson. The Liverpool hero dropped from the playing squad in Brussels after picking up a hamstring injury.
That allowed Taylor the chance to pick up his first Scotland cap. He made good use of his opportunity.
Kilmarnock’s full-back impressed under difficult circumstances
The Belgians deployed a 3-4-3 formation, so at times, Taylor had the task of dealing with two men. Those players were PSG’s Thomas Meunier and Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City.
Given the remarkable jump in class compared to what he’s used to, Taylor did brilliantly.
He was very solid in the left-back position. Taylor done a remarkable job of stopping Belgium’s world-class talent from making any clear chances from the right for most of the game.
Anytime there was danger Taylor was on hand to try and deal with it. His block to prevent Dries Mertens advancing through on goal late on was brilliant.
Taylor rarely missed a tackle and did his best to try and get forward, despite Scotland being pinned down for most of the match. The Killie full-back should be really pleased with his efforts.
It’s just a shame for him Scotland’s best player and arguably the second best both play at left-back. Both Robertson and Kieran Tierney are young, so Taylor has a job on his hands if he wants to get near the starting XI again.
His Belgian showing will have done no harm to that quest though. He was excellent on his first Scotland appearance. Taylor can return to Ayrshire with his head held high.