Scotland's long-awaited qualification for a major football tournament that witnessed a drought between 1998-2020 is quite astonishing, given their illustrious footballing history.
However, the Tartan Army of modern football follow in the footsteps of legendary football icons; these players aimed to exhibit the prowess of Scottish football on a global stage. Bearing this in mind, let's explore the most iconic players who shaped professional football in Scotland.
Sir Kenny Dalglish
Years Active: 1969-1990
Despite the numerous players who have emerged to represent Scotland throughout the years, none have surpassed the achievements and records established by Sir Kenny Dalglish. This enigmatic forward is revered as a legend on both sides of the border, having scored over a hundred goals for both Celtic and Liverpool during his illustrious career.
His unwavering determination and exceptional goal-scoring prowess earned him worldwide recognition, leading to his triumph in 10 national league championships and 3 European trophies. Additionally, Dalglish played a significant role in guiding the national team to major tournaments, setting records for the highest number of appearances and goals for Scotland with 30 goals in 102 caps – a record that remains unbroken to this day.
Unsurprisingly, he earned the moniker "King Kenny" and is arguably considered the greatest Scottish footballer of all time.
Graeme Souness
Years Active: 1970-1991
Graeme Souness is widely recognised as a tough and no-nonsense midfielder. He proudly represented Scotland in 54 matches from 1974 to 1986, participating in three World Cups.
Souness was responsible for performing the gritty tasks that allowed his more creative teammates, particularly Dalglish, to shine. This dynamic duo played together at Liverpool and represented Scotland side by side. During his tenure at Anfield, Souness, like Dalglish, achieved the remarkable feat of winning three European Cups. Furthermore, he continued to add to his trophy cabinet during his stints in Italy with Sampdoria and at Rangers.
As a player-manager with Rangers, Souness experienced further triumphs, securing three league titles. Later, he spent three years in the Liverpool dugout from 1991 to 1994, contributing to the team's FA Cup victory in 1992, the one accolade that had eluded him as a player.
Andrew Robertson
Years Active: 2012-current
The current captain of Scotland may be a controversial choice, but it is easy to underestimate a player's greatness in the present moment.
When the tireless and forceful left-back finally retires, he can reflect on his career with a sense of accomplishment. His journey from playing for an amateur team called Queen's Park, after being rejected by his childhood idols, Celtic, to now being a part of Liverpool, is well-known.
Robertson not only led his country out of a period of little international success to the 2020 Euros, but he also boasts medals as a winner of both the Champions League and the Premier League, which is why he’s deserving of making it to our list and continues to be a focus for sports bettors looking to back Liverpool.
Even today, he competes at the highest level, and although Liverpool faltered last season (2022-23), a resurgence for The Reds this term makes him one to watch for fans and sports bettors alike, especially when they utilize the advantages of free bets in the UK. Robbo has undoubtedly earned his place among the legends of the sport.
Denis Law
Years Active: 1956-1974
Denis Law is the sole Scottish player ever to win the prestigious European Footballer of the Year award.
The ex-Manchester United forward achieved an impressive record of 237 goals in 409 matches for the Red Devils. Fans affectionately referred to him as "The King," a title solidified when he received the European accolade in 1964.
Law holds the record for the most goals scored by a Scottish international player with 30 goals. Additionally, he is the second-highest goalscorer in Manchester United's history, trailing only behind Bobby Charlton.
Jimmy Johnstone
Years Active: 1962-1979
Jimmy Johnstone was revered for his skill and strategic manoeuvres instead of his prowess in scoring goals, and perhaps this very reason led him to secure a commendable third place in the 1967 Ballon d'Or competition, trailing Sir Bobby Charlton by a mere single point.
Throughout his career, Johnstone amassed an impressive collection of 19 club trophies exclusively with Celtic, notably contributing to the triumph of the renowned "Lisbon Lions" team that clinched the Euro 1967 title. Furthermore, he proudly represented the Scottish national team between 1964 and 1974, earning 23 caps and netting 4 goals. In recognition of his remarkable abilities, Johnstone was hailed as the greatest Celtic player by devoted fans in 2002.