Scotland captain Andy Robertson has said he is glad to have Hearts forward Steven Naismith back in the Scotland squad.
Steve Clarke’s side are gearing up for two big Euro qualifers against Russia and Belgium at Hampden. They need to win on Friday against the Russians to have any realistic chance of qualification via the groups.
Big games for the national side. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
It’ll be a tough ask as Russia are a sturdy side who have won their last three games. Ahead of the match, Robertson has said that the reintroduction of Naismith and Robert Snodgrass has been a real boost.
He told the Scotland YouTube site: “It’s great to have both him (Snodgrass) and Naismith back in the squad. Both of them are a big part of this squad and give everyone a lift.
“They’ve only been here a day and both of them have already done that.”
Naismith has similar influence at Hearts
As he gets older, it’s becoming increasingly clear why people want Naismith on their side. He is obviously a big influence on his teammates at both club and international level.
A big influence. (photo by Alan Rennie/Action Plus via Getty Images)
The fact that he has only played for 78 minutes this term (Transfermarkt) and Clarke is still calling him up also shows you what the Scotland boss thinks of him.
Naismith bring experience to this Scotland side, both internationally and domestically. He is one cap short of 50 Scotland appearances and has the experience of over 100 Premier League games to fall back on too.
He’s also been in and around the Scottish game for a while now, featuring 191 times in the SPFL. For the likes of Oli McBurnie still finding their feet on the international stage, Naismith’s support is vital.
Naismith is a source of inspiration for Scotland Robertson seems to indicate. (photo by Alan Rennie/Action Plus via Getty Images)
His influence is there for all to see at club level. Hearts lost just five times when he played last term, they won six times without him (Transfermarkt).
Naismith is clearly a big influence and the Scotland captain appreciates that. Hopefully the forward hits 50 caps over the next week.