Celtic striker Leigh Griffiths has stated that he’s annoyed that Hearts hitman Steven Naismith has been promised the Scotland number nine jersey by Alex McLeish, for the next UEFA Nations League game against Israel next month:

“It’s a kick in the teeth. Not just for me but for all the strikers.”

“It’s an incentive to work hard at our clubs and try to change his mind.”

“I was surprised as well but these things happen.”

“Naisy came in and did really well. He scored, ran about, and did his job.”

“I was a bit surprised to see he (McLeish) has already selected him for the next game.”

Now I get why the Scotland boss might feel Naismith warrants keeping the starting berth, he worked hard against Albania; scoring one and playing a huge part in the opener as the Scots won 2-0 at Hampden. If a player does well, then it makes sense that they keep their place in the team. Personally, I don’t think he should have said it. A month is a long time in football, by all means keep him in the team but make that decision closer to kick-off.

Who knows what will happen between now and the tie against Israel? Players can get injured and forms can change in that period. Naismith wasn’t even in Alex’s initial squad for those last fixtures!

I can see why Griffiths would feel aggrieved. I’m delighted that he’s added that he will put his head down and prove his point on the pitch. Other players have thrown their toys out of the pram and just quit international football because of similar snubs.

Leigh proved himself in the World Cup qualifiers, when he got the chance to lead the line for the Tartan Army. His two goals against England were particularly pleasing. In total he scored four times, all coming in 2017.

His goalscoring record with Scottish Premiership champions Celtic has been sensational, he’s banged in 100 goals in 191 appearances for The Hoops.

The twenty-nine year old has continually improved under Brendan Rodgers. He’s smarter, fitter, works harder and worked on his hold up and link up play.

The forward needs to come out fighting, he’s yet to score in the league this term and that stat needs to change. Naismith has scored five times in the Premiership for league leaders Hearts and he’s also produced three assists for teammates.

Griffiths also has the Europa League to think about with Celtic, if he scores regularly in that competition against teams like RB Leipzig, Rosenborg and Red Bull Salzburg then it once again proves that he can do it in the tough encounters.

Another thing that the Hoops hitman needs to do is train with distinction when the Scotland training camp starts next month. He needs to shine in front of McLeish and the Scotland coaching set-up.

If he doesn’t start against Israel, then he needs to take his chance if he comes on during the match. He has the pace and the ability to stretch and commit tired defences.

I’m glad that Leigh Griffiths is frustrated about his Scotland snub, I’m delighted he hasn’t gone in a huff and I’m ecstatic that he’s determined to prove his worth. That can only be a good thing for Celtic and Scotland in the long run.

Posted on September 17th, 2018 by scott
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