Celtic and Rangers handed ‘brilliant’ boost – ‘it’s huge for Scottish football’
Noel Whelan has claimed Celtic and Rangers will benefit from Scotland’s promotion to the top tier of the Nations League.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the promotion is “huge for Scottish football” and will “improve the game” of every player.
Scotland secured their place in the top tier of the next iteration of the Nations League with a 0-0 away draw with Ukraine last week (27 September).
They could face top nations like France, Italy, Germany, and Portugal in the competition.
The promotion also means Scotland have secured a Pot 2 place for Sunday’s (9 October) Euro 2024 draw – and will have a play-off to fall back on if they fail to qualify automatically.
Whelan believes Celtic and Rangers stars will return to their clubs “better players” after “testing themselves against the best”.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “It’s huge for Scottish football, and it just shows how far it’s come.
“To get that promotion playing against some of the biggest teams in Europe and the world – that’ll only make them better, stronger, and more competitive in every game going forward.
“This is what they want. They want that progression and to be testing themselves against the best.
“When you’re playing at a high level on international duty, you come back to your domestic game a better player.
“I believe it’ll improve their games – win, lose, or draw. Playing against the best can only bring out the best in their games.
“For Scotland, and for Celtic and Rangers – it’s a brilliant achievement which really bodes well for the future.”
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