Scotland Captain Finds Solace in International Duty During Difficult Club Season
Liverpool defender Andy Robertson has opened up about how representing Scotland has served as a vital psychological anchor during a season where his role at club level has diminished. The 32-year-old left-back, who captains the national team, admitted that international commitments have been essential for maintaining his focus and morale.
International Football as a Crucial Focus
Speaking ahead of Scotland's upcoming friendlies against Japan at Barclays Hampden Park on Saturday and Ivory Coast at Everton's Hill Dickinson stadium on Tuesday, Robertson was candid about his situation. "It has kept me going at times this season," he revealed. "Scotland duty and you know I can safely say that, especially the start to the season when you've got games every three or four weeks in September, October, November - it was important for me."
The defender emphasized that the World Cup qualifying campaign provided a significant distraction from his reduced playing time at Liverpool, where he has fallen down the pecking order this campaign. This shift has sparked ongoing speculation about his future at Anfield.
World Cup Qualification as Career Milestone
Robertson highlighted the particular importance of Scotland's successful qualification for this summer's World Cup, noting that at his age, alongside teammate John McGinn, this likely represented their final opportunity to reach the tournament on the global stage.
"It gave you something to focus on and give you something to be a part of," he explained. "Obviously the qualifying campaign went the way it went and everything in our favour. Yeah, it's been super important, certainly it's been a big focus of mine this season and I've enjoyed every game."
Chasing Scottish Football Legends
As Robertson prepares to equal Jim Leighton's 91 caps for Scotland against Japan, he admitted having one eye on Kenny Dalglish's record of 102 appearances for the national team. The former Celtic and Liverpool forward earned his caps between 1971 and 1986.
"I only really think about it when you go and match somebody," Robertson said. "Obviously tomorrow I know there's a chance to go and match Jim Leighton and then you're joint-second which is something I could only have ever dreamed of."
The defender, who previously played for Queen's Park, Dundee United, and Hull City before joining Liverpool, acknowledged he doesn't obsess over records but appreciates the milestones. "I don't give it too much thought, but when you do have these landmarks, it's always nice to remind yourself," he added.
Friendly Rivalry with Dalglish
Robertson revealed he shares a lighthearted relationship with Dalglish regarding the caps record. "Obviously being close enough to Kenny, we do have laughs and jokes about it every time I see him at games," he said. "He always says there's more international games now than there was back then, which is fair enough but it's an incentive, of course it is."
Reflecting on his journey from dreaming of a single cap to potentially reaching 91 appearances, Robertson expressed profound gratitude. "For me to get one cap for Scotland was always the dream as a kid but to be sitting here on 90 and potentially getting 91 tomorrow - and obviously equalling a legend that is Jim Leighton - then it's a huge honour and I still hope I've got many more to come."
The Scotland captain's candid comments provide insight into how international football has maintained his competitive edge during a challenging period at club level, while his pursuit of caps records demonstrates his enduring commitment to the national team.
