Scotland boss Steve Clarke has hailed John Souttar after his goal in last night’s stunning 2-0 win over Denmark at Hampden, admitting he is “delighted” for the Hearts star following a string of injuries that have disrupted his career.
Souttar heads home against the Danes(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Souttar was a late addition to the squad having initially missed out but was handed a starting berth against the Danes with the likes of Grant Hanley, Jack Hendry and Scott McTominay all sidelined last night.
The Hearts star nodded home the opening goal for Scotland shortly before the break, leaving Clarke emotional as Scotland ended Denmark’s hopes of completing the qualifying campaign with a 100% record.
“John Souttar can be the story tonight,” Clarke said.
“To come back from the injuries John had, over a long period of time, it was a bonus – and I know how happy he was – just to be in the squad, and to get the chance to play tonight.
“And to play the way he did – the goal was the icing on the cake for me – his performance was outstanding, so congratulations to John.
“I gave him a big hug as he came off.
“It was quite emotional, you understand when you have been a player yourself and been involved in the game for so long how difficult it is to come back so I am delighted for him.”
The Hearts star has been in great form for his club recently and his performance last night will have given Clarke something to really think about for future squads.
If Souttar can remain injury-free, the Hearts star could quite easily become a mainstay of the Scotland XI moving forward and push himself right into contention for a possible spot at next year’s World Cup.
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