He’s been forced to wait patiently, but surely now Allan McGregor overtakes Craig Gordon as Scotland’s number one.
The Gers goalkeeper put in a terrific display to keep out Albania last night, making some great stops as Scotland won 2-0. It was a massive improvement to the performance of Gordon just three minutes previously, as he let in four goals against Belgium.
Granted, there’s a difference in opposition. Belgium have a variety of world class superstars in their ranks, whilst Albania have very few top individuals.
The battle for the Scotland number one jersey is intriguing to say the least. Gordon has so often been fancied whilst McGregor plied his trade at Hull. Even David Marshall has had his shot in the nets on a consistent basis.
But last night has to now confirm that McGregor is the way forward for the Scottish national team.
Consistent and Composed
He adds a layer of consistency and composure to the back-line when he’s in between the sticks. When the ball came to Albania’s flair players in the box last night, there was a confidence from supporters with McGregor in goal. You expect him to make these saves.
Gordon on the other hand, is almost the total opposite.
This isn’t a witch-hunt against Gordon. He’s a very capable goalkeeper and has been the top dog at international level for a while. The Celtic star has had a varied career, and he has good experience at this level.
But, when McGregor is fit and available it has to be him every time. The Rangers number one has had a terrific renaissance up in Scotland this season with the Ibrox club.
Under Steven Gerrard, the Gers goalkeeper has already had a series of stunning performances and top saves. His performance at Parkhead just last week was symbolic of the top goalkeeper that he is.
Rangers will only benefit from having a goalkeeper as confident and classy as McGregor in between the sticks. Surely, Alex McLeish has now spotted the same thing.
If Scotland is to become a nation that qualifies for major tournaments once again, we can’t mess about with team-selection. When a goalkeeper as terrific as McGregor is available, he must be chosen.