Kenny Dalglish reckons Scotland boss Steve Clarke should capitalise on Celtic players pulling out of the international squad rather than focus on missing stars.
Ange Postecoglou stated he would not release players to represent their countries, meaning the likes of David Turnbull, Greg Taylor and Anthony Ralston will miss the friendly clash with Turkey in favour of playing in the Sydney Super Cup tournament. He drafted in Lewis Ferguson from Bologna and Calvin Ramsay from Liverpool have been called into the squad as replacements, but Clarke admitted he was "disappointed" by the Scottish champions decision.
Former Celtic hero Dalglish insists that his former club have every right to keep their squad together and focus on their Scottish Premiership title charge and push for Champions League football again. He insists the likes of Anfield kid Ramsay coming in at right-back for Ralston could be vital for the future of the national side.
Writing for The Sunday Post, Dalglish said: "A lot has been made about Celtic players not being made available for Scotland’s friendly in Turkey on Wednesday night. I understand the stance taken by the Parkhead club.
"They’ve signed a contract to take a squad to Australia for a tournament, and they are taking their best players. It will also be a part of their preparation for the second-half of the campaign as they try to retain the title and get back into the Champions League.
"With this date not being officially recognised in the international calendar, Ange Postecoglou is perfectly within his rights. I’ve no doubt that had this been a competitive game – or preparation for going to the World Cup – then any Celtic player called up would be with their country.
"I get Steve Clarke ’s frustration, of course I do. But there is no point in dwelling on who will not be there. Let’s be positive about the players who will be on the flight.
"The absence of the likes of Callum McGregor will give the Scotland manager an opportunity to assess other players closely. That should be viewed as a positive, and it’s a chance for someone to maybe emerge from the shadows.
"For example, Anthony Ralston not being available has opened the door for Calvin Ramsay to be selected. Calvin played for Liverpool in the Carabao Cup win against Derby County last midweek."
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