Ryan Christie is busily establishing himself in the Scottish senior squad at present.

Having impressed on debut against the Dutch in the Pittodrie international back in November, it was important that Ryan duly followed that up with selection for the March squad under new Scotland boss Alex McLeish, his performances for the Dons justifying his selection once again. Ryan spoke to us before heading off on international duty.

“It was obviously pretty special the first time I got called up. After that, I was hoping that it would not be a one off and that I would be able to keep my face in the picture, so when I found out I was named in Alex McLeish’s first squad, I was delighted.

“Playing in the Netherlands game was certainly a confidence boost. When you watch the big name players on TV, you always wonder how you will cope with playing against them and how big the gap is.

19/03/18
NORTON HOUSE – EDINBURGH
Ryan Christie photo SNSGroup

“Although it was frustrating to lose on the night, I thought we stood up and dealt with them well. Personally it was probably one of the best teams I have played against. I did notice it physically, the pace of the game was quicker, but I did not feel overwhelmed. I certainly came away from the experience believing it is a level I can play at.

“I kept my first shirt. It is getting framed at the moment! It was signed by all the boys who played that night.

“But that’s gone now and this is a fresh start for everyone and an opportunity to impress the new manager. There’s a whole new campaign coming up and the manager will be looking to get a squad of players together who he can trust. He is the person every player has to impress.

“I had never met Alex McLeish before this week, but I am aware of his career and what he did at Aberdeen. There are a few photos of him around the stadium!”

You can read the full interview with Ryan in RedMatchday Magazine Issue 21.

Good luck to Ryan and all the boys away on International duty this weekend.