Anthony Ralston could be about to renew acquaintances with one of football’s biggest stars.
The Scotland defender could face Neymar when Steve Clarke’s side take on Brazil in their final World Cup group-stage match in Miami later this week.
For Celtic supporters, the prospect immediately brings back memories of one of the most memorable images from Ralston’s early career.
Back in 2017, the full-back made his Champions League debut for Celtic against Paris Saint-Germain.
It was hardly an easy introduction.
PSG ran out 5-0 winners at Celtic Park, but the scoreline was not what most people remembered from Ralston’s performance.
Instead, it was his fearless approach to facing Neymar. He said after the match: “I didn’t fear him at all”. [Sky Sports]
The Brazilian had become the most expensive player in football history just weeks earlier following his blockbuster move from Barcelona to PSG.
Yet Ralston showed little interest in reputations.
The now-famous image of the young Celtic defender standing, laughing at Neymar continues to circulate regularly on social media and remains one of the defining photographs from that European campaign.
Laughing in the face of the most expensive player in the world, by 18-year-old Anthony Ralston… 😆 pic.twitter.com/83DCx9PUL7
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) September 12, 2017
Nine years later, the pair could find themselves sharing a pitch once again.
Ralston featured from the bench during Scotland’s loss against Morocco and acquitted himself well after replacing Nathan Patterson.
With Scotland preparing for a huge clash against Brazil, there is every chance he could be called upon again.
The timing is interesting because Neymar is expected to make his first appearance of the tournament.
The Brazilian missed his country’s opening two World Cup matches, including the 3-0 victory over Haiti, because of a calf injury.
However, Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti confirmed the superstar is on course to return.
Speaking after Friday’s win, Ancelotti said: [ESPN]
“Neymar will be available.
“Neymar will train individually tomorrow. On Monday he will be with the team and he will be ready for the game against Scotland.”
That sets up an intriguing reunion.
Much has changed since that night at Celtic Park.
If they do come face-to-face again in Miami, Ralston is unlikely to be overawed.
After all, he wasn’t the first time around.
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