I was lucky enough to live the dream as a footballer. Growing up as a kid, I had ambitions of playing for Rangers and winning trophies with the club I supported, of testing myself against the best in Europe and down south.
I went to bed each night wondering what it would be like to captain Scotland and hear the roar of a sold-out Hampden. And as a man, I was so fortunate to see all those fantasies come true. But the one aspiration I failed to tick off was experiencing a major tournament. And I’ve got to admit, when I sit down with my tea and toast tonight to cheer on Steve Clarke ’s side against Germany, there will be a part of me thinking: "I wish it was me”.
I just hope they embrace the occasion because I believe all the pressure is on Germany. The hosts have plenty of top players but let’s be honest, they’re not the force they once were and I really believe Scotland can get something out of this game. Most of the squad have sampled a big finals before after playing a part in Euro 2020. But let’s be honest, that was a bit of a damp squib because of the Covid crowd restrictions.
There are areas where we can hurt them, especially down our left-hand side if Robertson and Kieren Tierney can get motoring. And I believe we have players who now have the mentality to handle the occasion. Andy Robertson is a Champions League winner, Scott McTominay showed how much he enjoyed the responsibility of being this team’s talisman, while John McGinn and Callum McGregor are big leaders too.
If we’re going to get a result I think we need more of that from Gilmour. Of course, that won’t be easy against Kroos. What else can you say about a World Cup winner who has won six - yes SIX - Champions League titles?
Champions League Tartan Army Barry Ferguson Billy Gilmour Andy Robertson Steve Clarke Euro 2024
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