Uncapped Ben Doak was a surprise inclusion in Scotland’s provisional 28-man squad fo Euro 2024.
Ben Doak has the potential to become a significant asset for Scotland both in this summer’s European Championship and in the years to come.
However, it’s crucial not to “overhype” the Liverpool youngster, emphasized captain Andy Robertson.
Despite grappling with injuries throughout the season at Anfield, the uncapped Doak’s inclusion in Steve Clark’s provisional 28-man squad for the Euro 2024 finals came as a surprise.
Doak is back in training following a five-month injury lay-off, and Robertson believes his Liverpool teammate is prepared if called upon during the tournament in Germany.
Having only made 10 first-team appearances for his club, the 18-year-old will undoubtedly hope to avoid being one of the two players likely to be left out of head coach Clarke’s final squad for this summer’s tournament.
“Ben’s not lacking confidence, he’s a fantastic player,” Robertson said.
“Obviously his season’s been cut short with injury and he trained with the lads today for the first time and looked as if he hadn’t been out for five months, which is credit for him.
“He brings pace, he brings excitement, he’s not scared to take anyone on. It’s exactly what we need, young players that have got no fear, and he’s certainly got that.
The left-back added: “He’s got a bright future ahead of him, but it’s also important that we protect him and we put our arm round him and help him along the way because he’s just starting his journey and we know what that’s like.
“It’s important people don’t get overhyped by him and let him grow and let him improve.
“If we do that then I believe that he can be a big player for us in this tournament, but he’ll be a big player for us for 10, 15 years to come as well.”
Ben Doak could potentially make his senior international debut ahead of Euro 2024, as Scotland are set to face Gibraltar in Portugal on Monday, followed by hosting Finland in their final warm-up game at Hampden Park next Friday.
Clarke’s side will kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against hosts Germany on June 14.
