Scotland’s defender, Liam Cooper, has stressed the importance of Scotland rediscovering their defensive pride ahead of their upcoming international friendly against Gibraltar in Portugal. The Scottish team has struggled in recent fixtures, with five defeats and two draws in their past seven games. Moreover, they have not kept a clean sheet since their last victory against Cyprus in September.
Cooper believes that Scotland needs to return to their roots and focus on keeping clean sheets. He emphasized the significance of priding themselves on defensive solidity and doing everything they can to win games. The defender expressed that this has been the message within the team during their training camp.
The match against Gibraltar is seen as an opportunity for Scotland to regroup and showcase a strong performance filled with energy. Cooper emphasized that they should not underestimate any opponent and must give their best in every game. As they prepare for their Euro 2024 campaign, which includes matches against Germany, Hungary, and Switzerland, a solid defensive performance will be crucial for their success.
Cooper, who plays for Leeds United, understands the importance of making an impression on the manager and earning a spot in the final squad. He believes that every player needs to be at their best and give their all for the team. The competition for places in the squad is fierce, but Cooper believes that the team’s unity and strong work ethic in training will ultimately benefit them.
The defender acknowledges that it will be a tough decision for the manager to select the final squad and that some players may be disappointed. However, the team’s focus is currently on securing their place in the squad and preparing for the challenge of facing Germany.
In conclusion, Scotland’s defender Liam Cooper emphasizes the need for Scotland to reclaim their defensive pride by keeping clean sheets. He believes that this is vital for the team’s success in upcoming fixtures, including their Euro 2024 campaign. The match against Gibraltar is seen as an opportunity for Scotland to showcase a strong performance and regain their winning mentality. With a competitive squad and a strong work ethic, Cooper hopes to secure his place in the final squad and contribute to Scotland’s success.