Rangers defender John Souttar played from the start as Scotland secured a 1-0 victory away to Greece in the UEFA Nations League.
Lining up at centre-back alongside Birmingham City’s Grant Hanley, Souttar was part of a defensive unit that also featured Celtic’s Anthony Ralston at right-back. While Ralston remained on the bench during Celtic’s recent Old Firm defeat to Rangers, Souttar played the full match. However, both players set aside club rivalries to contribute to Scotland’s success.
Former Rangers forward Steven Naismith had plenty to say about Scotland’s performance and Souttar’s role in the win. He firmly dismissed any claims that luck played a part in the result.
Steven Naismith defends Scotland’s victory and hails John Souttar
Speaking on BBC One Scotland (21:42, 20 March) after the match, presenter Jonathan Sunderland suggested that Steve Clarke’s men were fortunate to come away with all three points. Naismith strongly disagreed.
“I’m not happy with you saying we rode our luck, because we didn’t,” he responded.
“The chance they had off the post—Ralston did enough, so defensively, that was brilliant. I think Souttar and Hanley were outstanding in the second half.”
Scotland took the lead through a first-half penalty, confidently converted by Napoli’s Scott McTominay, and managed to see out the game with a clean sheet, with Souttar anchoring the defence.
Souttar’s impact for Rangers and Scotland
The past few weeks have been eventful yet rewarding for Souttar at both club and international level. He played every minute as Rangers overcame Fenerbahce on penalties in the Europa League round of 16 and followed that up with an Old Firm triumph.
His confidence carried over into Scotland’s clash with Greece, where the 28-year-old delivered a commanding defensive display. As Scotland prepare to welcome Greece for the reverse fixture at Hampden Park, Souttar will be keen to maintain his impressive form.
Although Greece had a late penalty appeal overturned, Scotland withstood heavy pressure to secure a vital victory. Despite being out-shot by their hosts, Clarke’s men deserve credit for their resilience, with Souttar proving to be a defensive pillar throughout the match.
