TalkSPORT host Rory Jennings has launched a scathing attack on Scotland's Grant Hanley, labeling the Hibernian defender the worst player at the 2026 World Cup. The outburst came after Scotland's 1-0 defeat to Morocco, where Hanley's error gifted the Atlas Lions a quickfire opener.
Jennings, known for his provocative style, did not hold back during the talkSPORT lunchtime show. He dismissed the Scotland-England rivalry as one-sided, comparing it to the animosity between Chelsea and Queens Park Rangers. "It's a unilateral rivalry. They hate us, and we've got other things to worry about," Jennings said, adding that Scotland are like QPR in the comparison.
Hanley's costly mistake
Grant Hanley, earning his 70th cap, was at fault for Morocco's early goal, which ultimately decided the match. Jennings and co-host Jamie O'Hara joked that Hanley, who debuted in 2011, seems to have been "around for about 30 years." Jennings did not mince words: "He's the worst player at the tournament. Scotland played five at the back and conceded in a minute. They've got Grant Hanley at the back."
Despite the criticism, O'Hara, often a critic of Scottish football, surprisingly defended Scotland. "If Scotland get out of the group, they have something in the locker. They're alright," O'Hara said. However, Jennings retorted, "It's well hidden in the locker!"
Potential last-16 meeting
Jennings expressed hope that Scotland and England meet in the last 16, suggesting England could rest players against a weak Scottish side. "That's a tap in. Grant Hanley against Harry Kane. Steve Clarke against Thomas Tuchel. We could rest players in that fixture," Jennings said. He even joked that Jordan Henderson might get a runout, adding, "He wouldn't even be the worst player on the pitch - Grant Hanley's on it."
Scotland are on course to make history by reaching the knockout stage of a major tournament for the first time. Jennings' comments have added fuel to the rivalry ahead of a potential clash.
