Celtic’s Champions League push
19-year-old right-back Colby Donovan said he wants a Scotland call-up after Celtic’s 3-0 win over LASK. The match, played at Parkhead, was watched by new Scotland boss Sebastien Pocognoli. Celtic’s victory in the play-off first leg keeps them on course to return to the Champions League, with a decisive tie in Austria on Tuesday.
Donovan’s performance
Donovan sparkled in front of the watchful eyes of the new national-team manager. He said: “We know it’s a tough fixture, we knew they were going to come here and not just give it to us. To go out there and give the fans what they want, obviously it’s not done yet, we need to go over there. We know it’s going to be a tough tie, but to win 3-0 at home, it’s a good victory.” The 19-year-old has been capped by Scotland’s Under-21s and hopes his display will leave a lasting impression on Pocognoli.
Pocognoli’s reaction
The Belgian, announced as Steve Clarke’s successor earlier this week, ran the rule over Donovan, Kieran Tierney and Anthony Ralston as he watched from the stands. Donovan said: “I just want to do the job for the club, going into games. I kind of don’t think about that. After a game, you see it on your phone, social media and all that. Obviously the new Scotland manager has come in. You just need to give 110 per cent performance for your club and give them a thought that maybe this boy can play. I gave my all. Every time I put on the Celtic jersey, I always give my 110 per cent. For him, hopefully, I’ve played a good part in the game.”
Future prospects
Donovan insists there will be no complacency as Celtic look to finish the job in Linz. He wants to book Celtic’s place in the Champions League and land a first Scotland call-up. The 19-year-old’s performance in the 3-0 win over LASK has already caught the eye of the national-team manager, setting the stage for a potential senior debut.
