Kenny issues ‘massive’ Ralston claim as Celtic set for ‘huge boost’
Paddy Kenny expects Anthony Ralston to hit new heights for Celtic after being given his first Scotland cap.
The former Leeds United stopper, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insists the defender’s confidence will be “sky-high”.
Ralston, 23, was drafted into the Scotland squad for Monday’s 2-0 win over Denmark.
The defender was given three minutes at the end of the game as Scotland qualified for next year’s World Cup playoffs.
He also started as the Hoops secured their place in the Scottish League Cup final with a 1-0 win over St Johnstone on Saturday.
Kenny is delighted for Ralston and insists he will only get better thanks to his newfound confidence.
“It’s massive for him, I’m sure his confidence is sky-high,” Kenny told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“I had a look into this actually and it was his 23rd birthday, what a present for him.
“It’s all confidence. He might have only played a few minutes but he’s got his foot in the door now.
“It was a massive result for Scotland as well. That Denmark side is very good and Scotland blew them away.
“It’s always great to see a player get their first cap and I would expect him to go on and keep improving now.
“It’s a huge boost for Celtic as well, they will benefit.”
Celtic will face either Rangers or Hibernian in the final of the Scottish League Cup.
They are next in action against Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League on Thursday.
In other news, Celtic could lose up to £9m on a senior duo as they are told to sell ‘at any price’.