Robertson Fires Back as War of Words with McGregor Erupts Ahead of Denmark Clash

The Scotland camp has been thrown into unexpected turmoil after national team captain Andy Robertson delivered a fiery response to remarks made by Celtic skipper Callum McGregor, who questioned the leadership of both Robertson and head coach Steve Clarke ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifier against Denmark at Hampden Park.

McGregor, who was initially expected to help the Scotland squads to secure victory sparked controversy earlier this week when he suggested that Scotland’s preparation and leadership “lacked clarity and direction.” His comments, interpreted by many as a jab at Robertson and Clarke, were met with widespread surprise across Scottish football, given McGregor’s typically reserved public persona.

But if the Celtic midfielder anticipated a muted reaction, Robertson made sure that was not going to happen.

Speaking at Scotland’s prematch media session on Tuesday, delivered what can only be described as a blistering rebuke.

“It is disappointing, to put it mildly,” Robertson said, his frustration unmistakable. “Callum is a player I have respected for years, but questioning the commitment or leadership within this camp is completely out of order. He is not here, so he does not see the work put in every day. Criticising from the outside helps no one.”

The Scotland captain did not stop there, turning his defence toward Clarke, who has been under pressure following a mixed qualifying campaign.

“Steve has done more for this national team than most people see,” Robertson continued. “He has built something, he has led us through tough moments, and every single player in this squad stands by him. If someone wants to take shots from afar, that is on them, but do not pretend to speak for us.”

Sources close to the national team described the reaction inside the camp as galvanised rather than fractured, with several senior players reportedly expressing disbelief over McGregor’s remarks. One insider suggested that McGregor’s comments did not reflect the reality of the environment Scotland have been building in recent months.

Clarke, typically measured and reluctant to be drawn into off pitch disputes, handled the situation with characteristic calm during his own briefing.

“I am not interested in drama, I am interested in football,” Clarke said. “Callum is a good player and someone I have worked with closely. If he has concerns, he knows he can speak to me directly. But my focus is Denmark, nothing else.”

Despite the manager’s attempt to steer the conversation back toward the pitch, the fallout has dominated headlines, threatening to overshadow Scotland’s preparations for one of their most important matches of the campaign. A win against Denmark, who have been in formidable form, is essential for Scotland’s hopes of securing a playoff position.

While some analysts framed McGregor’s comments as honest criticism from a senior figure frustrated by Scotland’s inconsistency, others were less forgiving, highlighting the ill timing and the potential to destabilise the squad on the eve of a high stakes fixture.

Former Scotland international James McFadden weighed in during a broadcast appearance, calling the situation an unnecessary distraction.

“You cannot wait until you are out of camp and then start throwing stones,” McFadden said. “If there is something to be said, you say it in the dressing room. Robertson was right to defend the squad.”

For Robertson, the incident may yet serve as a rallying moment. The Scotland captain concluded his remarks with a pointed message that hinted at lingering frustration but also a determination to keep the team united.

“We are here to qualify for a World Cup,” he said. “We are here to fight for this country, not talk about petty comments. The group is strong, and we will show that on the pitch.”

As Scotland prepare to walk out at Hampden under the floodlights, the drama off the pitch has added an unexpected layer of tension. Whether it fuels Scotland’s performance or becomes a defining distraction will be revealed soon enough.