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Andy Robertson has been hailed as a “true leader” by the Scottish media after the Liverpool star became the first player to captain his nation to a World Cup in nearly 30 years.
Robertson was at the heart of a dramatic night at Hampden Park as Scotland beat Denmark 4-2 in a winner-takes-all encounter, and secured its place at next year’s tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean both struck in stoppage time to send their country to the World Cup for the first time since 1998, and with Steve Clarke’s side securing legendary status in the process.
Scotland’s media has understandably been celebrating the achievement in some style, with Robertson hailed for his part in leading his side to the finals - the first man to do so in 28 years.
The Scotsman gave the Liverpool star a 7/10 in its ratings, and even forgave him for his second-half mistake that almost cost his side dearly.
“The Scotland captain worked exceptionally hard all night on his 90th cap,” their summary read.
“Pinged by VAR for a needless challenge on Gustav Isaksen right on the corner of the penalty box which resulted in a spot-kick for Hojlund to convert. But he drove his team on and deserves this moment. A true leader.”
The Herald gave Robertson the same score, writing: “Scotland captain was unfortunate to concede a penalty for a loose tackle just inside the area, but VAR looked to have got it right. Forced to defend for the majority of the evening, but created some huge chances when desperately searching for a winner.”
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The Edinburgh Evening News decided to take a point off as it gave him a 6/10, saying: “Looking to make up for an error-strewn display in Athens, the skipper conceded the penalty for tripping Isaksen on edge of the box. Recovered well thereafter and didn't let his head drop.”
It was an understandably emotional night for Robertson, who paid a special tribute to Diogo Jota after the game, having admitted he couldn’t get his former Liverpool teammate out of his head ahead of Scotland’s big day.
Summing up his emotions, Robertson told BBC Sport: “That just sums up this squad, never say die, we just keep going right to the end, and one of the craziest games of football, we certainly put the country through it!
“But I’m sure it’ll all be worth it. We’re going to the World Cup, I can’t believe it.
“This group of boys, this group of staff, honestly, it’s the best group I’ve ever been involved in. The manager’s speech before the game was unbelievable in the hotel.
“To do it for him, to do it for all of the staff, all the families, honestly, it’ll go down as one of the greatest nights of my life.”
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