Scotland media reacts to Rangers ace John Souttar performance in Greece win
Rangers defender John Souttar caused a stir after his performance in Scotland’s win over Greece on Thursday.
The Tartan Army are looking to retain their place in League A of UEFA’s Nations League and hold a 1-0 lead heading into the second leg of their playoff with Greece after Scott McTominay’s penalty on 20 March.
Steve Clarke‘s side were under pressure to maintain their lead in the second half but Souttar and partner Grant Hanley were instrumental as they held their opposition.
Scotland will keep their place in the highest tier if they can avoid defeat at Hampden Park on Sunday (23 March).
Scotland star Souttar earns praise after Greece victory
Souttar has been a shining light for Rangers in a dismal season and the 28-year-old featured for the full 90 minutes against Greece.
The BBC praised the Gers ace’s impact labelling his partnership with Hanley as “outstanding.”
The Scotsman called the Light Blues star “fantastic” as they handed him an 8 out of 10 rating, claiming that he might be the best centre-back at Clarke’s disposal.
The Daily Mail also handed the Bears star an 8 out of 10 as he “strolled through the first half” and “put his body on the line with those trademark blocks when Greece upped their game.”
Souttar will be vital for Rangers Europa League run
Souttar will be absolutely vital if the Gers are to forge a route to the Europa League final under the interim charge of Barry Ferguson.
The former Hearts defender has been a rock at the back when he is fit for the Gers and his performance for the national team will be no surprise for the Light Blues faithful.
| Stats | Scottish Premiership | Europa League |
| Matches | 17 | 9 |
| Duels won | 76 (65%) | 36 (73.5%) |
| Aerial duels won | 51 (62.2%) | 28 (75.7%) |
The issue is his fitness, Souttar has only played 17 matches in the Scottish Premiership but has featured in nine of the Bears’ 10 matches in Europe.
Keeping their star man on the pitch will be essential if Ferguson is to take his side further in their pursuit of European success as he is a reliable presence at the back and there is a noticeable drop off when he is not in the side.
Ferguson will hope that he can continue his exploits on the national stage and come back to Ibrox full of confidence to lead the charge for a trophy to redeem a shambolic campaign.