‘He’s been sorely missed’ – Brentford star’s ‘outstanding’ international display wows
Steve Clarke may have found a new star of the Scotland team, after one Premier League player earned praise for their performance against Denmark.
Scotland drew 0-0 at Denmark to begin their World Cup qualification in positive fashion, with Belarus and Greece also in their group.
Clarke is looking to lead Scotland to a first World Cup since 1998, following on from two successive European Championship appearances.
Scotland travel to Belarus next knowing they must back up their draw in Denmark with three points, and one player looks certain to start the match.
Aaron Hickey earns plaudits in Scotland draw
After Anthony Ralston had to withdraw from the Scotland squad due to injury, Clarke handed Brentford defender Aaron Hickey a start at right-back following a first call-up in two years.
Hickey has suffered from numerous injury blows, but the 23-year-old took his opportunity to shine in Copenhagen.
| Aaron Hickey | Stats |
| Minutes Played | 70 |
| Touches | 39 |
| Chances Created | 1 |
| Defensive Contributions | 3 |
| Ground Duels Won | 4 |
Posting on X, The Herald’s Matthew Lindsay [5 September], was “pleased,” with Scotland’s result against Denmark and that Hickey’s display “was pure class.”
Lindsay posted during and after the game in awe of Hickey following his injury problems, saying he “has been sorely missed.”
Aaron Hickey makes Scotland starting claim
Football Insider Verdict
Whilst Clarke is blessed with options at left-back, the same could not be said previously of his choices in the right-back role.
Hickey has not been able to cement a position in the Scotland squad due to injuries, but now returning to full fitness, the Brentford defender will be hoping to stake his claim should World Cup qualification be achieved.
Competition currently comes from Celtic‘s Ralston and Derby County’s Max Johnston, who replaced Hickey during in the second half against Denmark.
Whilst Ralston is an understudy to Alastair Johnston at Celtic, both Hickey and Max Johnston are still young players who have not been exposed to playing in the biggest matches.
If Scotland qualify for the World Cup, Clarke will have a decision to make in the position, though if Hickey can stay fit, then playing in the Premier League could work to his advantage.