Scotland goalkeeper David Marshall retires from international football

Scotland goalkeeper David Marshall has announced his retirement from international football after 47 matches.

The 37-year-career old’s highlight occurred when he saved Alexander Mitrovic’s penalty to send Scotland to Euro 2020. It was their first big international competition in 22 years.

Marshall will continue to play club football after signing a two-year contract with Hibernian.

Marshall was thanked by the Scotland national team, who tweeted, ‘National hero. Forever.’

David Marshall, who gave us an amazing moment in Belgrade with his penalty save that propelled us to EURO 2020, has announced his retirement from international football. ‘Thank you very much, Marsh.’

During his 20-year professional career, the goalie has had numerous unforgettable experiences, both good and terrible.

Marshall recorded a clean sheet as a youngster for Celtic in a legendary 1-0 UEFA Cup triumph over Barcelona. He preserved another clean sheet in the second leg at the Nou Camp to eliminate the Spanish giants, and the following season he stopped a Ronaldinho penalty against them in the Champions League.

Marshall was most recently the victim of Patrik Schick’s amazing longshot for the Czech Republic at Euro 2020. As the ball blasted in from the midway line, Marshall was forced to scramble helplessly into his own net.

He will now return to the Scottish Premiership, which he won with Celtic in 2004.

Steve Clarke dismisses criticism after Ukraine defeat

In other news, Scotland’s World Cup play-off defeat has prompted Steve Clarke to question the rationale of those pushing for major reforms.

The Scots have been nursing their wounds for the last week after being trounced 3-1 by Ukraine last Wednesday.

Clarke has been criticized in certain quarters for his tactics and team selection, while numerous players have faced criticism from fans and analysts.

Clarke believes he has paid little heed to the clamour as his squad prepares to open their Nations League campaign against Armenia at home on Wednesday.

When questioned about the reaction following the Ukraine game, he answered, “What criticism?” before being reminded that some analysts and supporters had been harsh.

“They’re entitled to their opinion. I don’t know what it (the criticism) was because I didn’t read it, I didn’t hear it, I didn’t listen to it.

“I deal with games and disappointments and move on. We’ve all been hurting but you have to move on, so Armenia tomorrow, I’m focused on that.”