Goalkeeper Ross Laidlaw's strong performances could earn him a spot in the national squad.
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In the world of football, a goalkeeper’s performance can often be the difference between victory and defeat. Ross County’s Ross Laidlaw has been making waves in the Scottish Premiership, and his recent form has not gone unnoticed. With the upcoming Nations League matches against Croatia and Poland, Scotland’s national team coach, Steve Clarke, may be considering Laidlaw for a potential call-up.
Laidlaw’s impressive statistics
Laidlaw, 32, has had a remarkable start to the season, boasting four clean sheets in just 12 league appearances. This puts him in the upper echelon of goalkeepers in the league, trailing only Celtic’s Kasper Schmeichel and Rangers’ Jack Butland in terms of clean sheets.
His recent performances, particularly against Hibernian and St Mirren, have showcased his ability to keep the opposition at bay, solidifying his reputation as a reliable shot-stopper.
Manager’s confidence in Laidlaw
Ross County manager Don Cowie has expressed his belief that Laidlaw’s consistent performances will catch the eye of Clarke. Cowie stated, “If you’re a fan of Ross County, you see Ross every week. You’ve got eyes on him and you see what he does.” This sentiment reflects the growing recognition of Laidlaw’s talent and his potential to contribute to the national team.
Inspiration from seasoned players
Cowie also highlighted the importance of Laidlaw drawing inspiration from veteran goalkeeper Craig Gordon, who has made a successful return to the Scotland squad at the age of 41. Cowie remarked, “Ross is relatively young in terms of being a goalkeeper. He’s just hit the 30-mark, so there are plenty of years left for him.” This perspective emphasizes that age is not a barrier for goalkeepers, and Laidlaw has the opportunity to continue improving and potentially secure a spot in the national setup.
Defensive improvements at Ross County
Under Cowie’s management, Ross County has made significant strides in their defensive capabilities. The team has conceded only one goal in their last three matches, showcasing a newfound resilience. Cowie noted the impact of summer signings, particularly Kacper Lopata, who has brought a commanding presence to the defense. This solid foundation allows Laidlaw to perform at his best, knowing he has a strong defensive line in front of him.
Looking ahead
As Ross County prepares to face Dundee United, currently sitting fourth in the Premiership, the focus will be on maintaining their defensive solidity while also improving their goal-scoring capabilities. Cowie remains optimistic, stating, “It is still relatively early in the season, but I am seeing really good signs in terms of how hard we can be to be beaten in a game.” With Laidlaw’s form and the team’s overall improvement, the Staggies are poised for a competitive season ahead.
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