Scotland captain Andy Robertson has declared his intention to secure clarity on his Liverpool future before departing for the World Cup this summer. The 32-year-old left-back, whose contract at Anfield expires at the end of the season, could potentially conclude a glittering nine-year tenure with the club.
Contract Decision Imminent
Robertson, who has experienced limited game time at club level this season, emphasised the importance of resolving his future prior to captaining Scotland in their first World Cup finals appearance in 28 years. "Will I make a decision before the World Cup? Yeah, that will definitely happen," stated Robertson, who will lead Scotland against Japan at Hampden on Saturday.
"For me, I will make up my mind before the summer and it's always been in my head that I don't want it hanging over me," he added. "I think that's important, I don't think anyone wants that and everyone would be in the same boat. If you're out of contract and sign a new contract, or whatever you're doing - you always want that sorted before you go into a big tournament."
Private Deliberations
The defender revealed that he plans to consult with his family in the coming weeks to determine his next steps. "I have always worked towards and have been consistent with. It's only eight or nine weeks, so from now until the end I'll sit down with my family and see what we want."
Robertson is anticipated to have numerous options available, including potential moves to clubs in England and even a speculated return to his boyhood team, Celtic. When questioned about links to the Parkhead club, he remained discreet. "It's not really one to talk about," Robertson remarked. "Obviously I was at Celtic as a kid and had a season ticket, that's not a secret. But it's not something I really want to get into. The options that are on the table for me at the minute will stay private and that's the way I've always done it."
He acknowledged the widespread speculation surrounding his future but maintained his distance from the rumours. "People can talk and there's been a lot of talk around it, where I'm going to go next. I've seen it but I stay away from it all now."
World Cup Ambitions
Robertson underscored the determination within the Scotland squad to deliver a memorable performance for their supporters at the World Cup. The Tartan Army is expected to travel in significant numbers to the United States for matches against Haiti, Morocco, and Brazil in Boston and Miami.
Supporters' Sacrifices
However, several supporters' groups have expressed concerns over exorbitant ticket prices, as well as the costs associated with travel and accommodation. Robertson acknowledged these financial challenges. "It's expensive, we have all our families and friends paying silly money to come and watch us," he said. "It's something we can't control obviously. The gaffer has been consistent in saying people shouldn't put themselves into massive amounts of debt to come over."
He expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of Scottish fans. "The people who are going over to America, making long journeys and paying a lot of money to be there - we always appreciate the support. Our away ends are always full, we always the best-supported team at tournaments. The numbers going over will be big. We know that and never take it for granted."
Robertson concluded with a hopeful message: "We just hope we can give them something to shout about and give them days to remember."
