Credit: Imago

Harri Burton

Sat 28 March 2026 21:45, UK

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Andy Robertson was able to keep his head high despite Scotland’s 1-0 defeat to Japan in a friendly fixture at Hampden Park.

Despite falling behind Milos Kerkez at Liverpool, the national team’s captain continues to strive on the international stage, playing 70 minutes before a late winner from Junya Ito on Saturday, 28 March.

Steve Clarke’s side have already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, so supporters were hoping for positive preparations against Japan, the Republic of Ireland, and then Curacao, but it didn’t get off to the best of starts.

The 32-year-old may have even found a winner for the Scots before being replaced by Kieran Tierney, seeing an effort saved by Zion Suzuki, and Arne Slot will hope for similar form for when Liverpool face Man City next.

Andy Robertson is frustrated by Japan goalkeeper

In the 54th minute, Japan’s goalkeeper was forced into action by the marauding full-back, denying the Scots yet again after an early save against Scott McTominay.

Speaking live on BBC Sportsound (28 March, 6:17pm), James McFadden was impressed by the 32-year-old, saying: “That’s tremendous from the captain. A powerful driving run.

“Lyndon Dykes potentially could be an option, but no complaints with Robertson going for goal.”

It just wasn’t to be for Clarke’s side, or Angus Gunn, as the Nottingham Forest man failed to deny Japan’s very late winner after a subpar friendly between the two sides at Hampden Park.

Liverpool full-back could follow in Mohamed Salah’s footsteps

Robertson has been linked with exit for the past couple of transfer windows now, having been overtaken by Kerkez in the pecking order and fans questioning his ability as he gets older.

There were very few signs of him slowing down against Japan, but with his contract running out at the end of the season, the club have a key decision to make ahead of the summer.

Football Insider understands that Robertson could be persuaded by a move to Celtic as his time on Merseyside comes to an end, though the Hoops are yet to make a move.

Supporters are usually quite impressed by his workrate and determination, and even his leadership, on the international stage, and Martin O’Neill’s side could definitely do with those characteristics.