At Scotland's training camp in Turkey before crucial World Cup qualifiers, Andy Robertson turned into Claudia Winkleman. The captain devised a 'Traitors' game for the squad, complete with blackboards and mini shields. A week-long quest to find the Traitors ensued, as players engaged in challenges and capers ahead of two of the biggest games of their lives.
Robertson's way of bringing the team together and injecting fun amid pressure is a small but significant example of his influence. As a player, teammate, and captain, he has left an indelible mark on this Scotland squad. His journey from working at Hampden's ticket office to captaining Scotland to their first men's World Cup in 28 years makes him a national icon.
The Player: Always Giving 100%
Robertson's value to Liverpool was highlighted as he bid farewell to Anfield after nine years. From a raw attacking full-back who, in Jurgen Klopp's view, couldn't defend when he arrived from Hull City in 2017, Robertson became one of the world's best. Alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold, he set Premier League assist records as part of Klopp's ferocious team, winning two Premier League titles and the Champions League. Some call him Liverpool's greatest-ever left-back.
For Scotland, Robertson's story is different. His Anfield status brought pressure, as a nation starved of major tournaments was desperate for a star. But left-backs are rarely the star. As Robertson famously quipped when sending a fan a Roberto Firmino shirt: "Because nobody wants the left-back's shirt."
Robertson sometimes faced debate over his position, with Kieran Tierney rivalling him for left-back. Yet his Scotland career isn't about individual moments but sheer consistency. Since Gordon Strachan gave him his debut in March 2014, he's barely missed a game, averaging 84 minutes per match over 93 caps – only Kenny Dalglish has more. His relentless runs, crossing, and full-blooded tackling have been staples. Teammates speak of how much more he brings.
"I've always just tried to give 100% and also tried to enjoy it," Robertson told Kelly Cates. "We know we're lucky to do the best job in the world. So many kids dream of becoming footballers, and 99% don't make it. We're in the small percentage who achieve their dreams."
The Captain and Teammate
Alex McLeish named Robertson captain in September 2018 after Scott Brown's retirement. With just 22 caps but established as Liverpool's left-back, he was the obvious choice at 24. Now he has captained Scotland more than any other player.
"He's just a very humble guy," said James McFadden, then an assistant coach. "You'd never know he plays for Liverpool, top of the league and in the Champions League final. He's a leader."
Robertson's infectious personality and ability to relate to people define him. Steve Clarke says he can be "demanding" and "understanding" when needed. Napoli and Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay agrees: "Top boy, Robbo. He's a great captain with a good balance – he'll tell you to wake up if you're not playing well, but also organises things with the manager and helps young players."
Examples abound: Robertson and senior players decided the squad weren't marking successes enough, so now players get a personalised Scotland shirt on their first cap and other milestones. Klopp described him as a "mood-lifter" and "energy-giver" at Liverpool.
The closeness Robertson fostered is fundamental to Scotland qualifying for three major tournaments. "We've all grown up together," he said. "I played against these lads at 10, 11. Now going to the World Cup with them, my best mates – it's incredible."
From Needing a Job to the World Cup
As an 18-year-old playing for Queen's Park in Scottish League Two, earning £18 per week, Robertson posted that he was broke and needed a job. Released by Celtic at 15, he worked in Hampden's ticket office and bootroom for extra cash.
Less than a year later, he played regularly for Dundee United. Another year on, he was in the Premier League with Hull City and a full Scotland international.
"He doesn't like talking about his story," said John McGinn. "Part-time football to Hull, Liverpool, Champions League winner, Premier League winner, captaining your country at a World Cup – that's fairytale stuff."
Steve Bruce cited Robertson's ability to grow and meet bigger challenges. Gordon Strachan said his intelligence meant he learned quickly. Robertson ascribes his ascent to "luck" in having coaches who gave him chances, plus his work ethic. "What I could control is I went into football with: 'I will give this 100%, and if I don't make it, at least I gave it everything.'"
Robertson is on course to surpass Kenny Dalglish's record of 102 caps for Scotland, cementing his legacy.