Alex McLeish braved the Beast from the East in 2018 to secure Scott McTominay for Scotland, a journey that set the midfielder on the path to becoming a national team mainstay. McLeish, the former Scotland boss, recalled how he travelled through heavy snow to meet McTominay after being alerted to his Scottish eligibility by then Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho.
A Treacherous Journey to Secure a Promise
McLeish said: "That was some journey I did as well – the beast from the east. When I was forced off the train in Newcastle, they said 'it's not going any further, the weather's knackered.' So, I had to wait for a train down south. And I thought 'at this point will I go home?' And I thought, 'no, I've come this far, so I'm going all the way'."
He added that Mourinho had told him McTominay "definitely wants to play for Scotland," and McLeish described the young player as "still just a kid, quite raw," but with "the physique, speed and skill on the ball" that made the decision straightforward.
From First Call-Up to National Hero
McTominay won his first of 73 Scotland caps under McLeish before establishing himself under Steve Clarke. He has since played in multiple roles, including in defence and midfield, and has been a driving force as Scotland reached two European Championships and the 2026 World Cup.
McLeish said: "It's incredible how he's grown and grown. In the first few games he was just trying to feel his way into the international scene. But McTominay gave everything room that first call-up."
Impact on the Current Squad
McTominay is now on the verge of his 74th cap and closing in on McLeish's own total of 77. He is also set to return to the squad under new boss Sebastian Pocognoli after missing last month's matches.
McLeish also praised Andy Robertson, who he made captain, as the left-back prepares to equal Sir Kenny Dalglish's cap record. "He's been an amazing servant for club and country," McLeish said.
McLeish was speaking at the announcement of William Hill as Official Sponsor and Proper Supporter of Walking Football Scotland.
