Former Scotland Manager Praises John Souttar’s Impact on National Team’s Resurgence

Former Scotland manager Craig Levein has stated that Rangers defender John Souttar’s “excellent” form has been instrumental in Scotland’s recent resurgence. Souttar was initially excluded from Steve Clarke’s squad for Euro 2024 and subsequently did not feature in the initial Nations League matches, during which Scotland experienced three consecutive losses. However, the 28-year-old then started the last three fixtures, contributing to Clarke’s team securing seven out of a possible nine points, including victories against Croatia and Poland. This performance helped secure a relegation play-off, the draw for which is scheduled for Friday. Levein, who previously managed the centre-back at Hearts, stated: “Souttar has been doing really well, his performances have been have been excellent.” He further commented: “John is maturing into a player who’s always had great elegance, but his decision-making and his use of the ball are now better.” Levein also noted: “He’s got good speed. Physically, he’s a unit now.” Concluding his remarks, Levein said: “He’s good in the air. I’m thrilled for him. He’s had three really bad Achilles injuries in the past, and coming back from that, all credit to him to get to the level he’s now at.”