Celtic and Scotland defender Anthony Ralston has emphasised the importance of squad unity as the nation prepares for its first World Cup appearance in 28 years. The Hoops star is eagerly anticipating the tournament opener against Haiti in the early hours of Sunday morning at Boston Stadium.
Ending a 28-Year Wait
Scotland kick off their Group C campaign against the Caribbean nation, with the Tartan Army expected to flock to Boston in large numbers. Steve Clarke's side are aiming to become the first Scotland team to advance beyond the group stage at a major tournament. They will also face Morocco on June 19 and Brazil on June 24 in Miami.
Saturday's 4-0 warm-up victory over Bolivia in New Jersey has boosted optimism. Lawrence Shankland, Scott McTominay, and a double from Che Adams secured the convincing win.
Ralston's Perspective
Ralston, who grew up in Airdrie, is in contention to feature against Haiti. He said: "As a collective, to get out of the group is our aim. I don't see why we can't. The gaffer has said it's going to be a squad tournament."
He added: "It's a great group of lads and we want to do ourselves proud over here. The boys were excellent on Saturday. Since we arrived in America, we've put the work in, and you saw that. The goals and the clean sheet, all round very positive."
Family Motivation
Ralston's six-year-old daughter Mia is in the US to support him, making the occasion even more special. He said: "I've got a lot of family coming and my wee girl, which is amazing. Hopefully this is something which, in years to come, I'll be able to share with her, in terms of photos and videos. We all have our own motivations and she is definitely mine."
Andy Robertson's Heartfelt Gesture
The Celtic defender revealed that captain Andy Robertson presented each player with a thoughtful gift, including traditional items and a personal letter. Ralston said: "It was a lovely wee gift from Andy with some traditional items and a personal letter. It was a brilliant touch from him."
He continued: "The message just said how proud he was personally of the squad and also how we want to make everybody else proud by doing the best we can out here. That's really what hit home for us. We don't want to let anyone down."
Squad Unity
Ralston highlighted the strong bond within the squad: "In terms of the backroom stuff - this is just a great group of lads who all work well together. Not just going into normal camps but even in big tournaments. We have a group who travel around the world together and get on so well."
He added: "We all have the same beliefs and drivers - and that can only stand you in good stead as a team. You can't fake that stuff. We've been a group for a long time and have kept the same players for most of the campaigns."
Reflecting on the journey, Ralston said: "We've played in big games and come through big moments. I think it has built up over time and hopefully now we're starting to see the result of that on the pitch. We're in a really good place going into this tournament and that's all you can ask for."
He concluded: "We know how much this moment means, not just to us players and staff but also to everyone back home, including our families. We're focused on being the best we can be at the tournament and we don't want to let anyone down."
