James Forrest says he is still holding onto hopes of being selected for Scotland’s World Cup squad, despite his limited recent involvement at international level…
The iconic Hoops winger has not represented his country since making a surprise return ahead of Euro 2024, ending a three-year absence.
James Forrest eyes World Cup opportunity
However, he remains keen to catch the attention of national team boss Steve Clarke and force his way back into contention.
Now approaching his 35th birthday, Forrest has been in impressive form for Celtic in recent weeks. Playing a key role under Martin O’Neill, he has helped drive the team’s push for both the league title and the Scottish Cup.
With his performances improving, James Forrest is optimistic that his late-season resurgence could be enough to earn him a place on the plane to the United States this summer.
“If you are playing well for Celtic then you get recognised by Scotland”
He said via Daily Record: “It’s obviously unbelievable what Steve Clarke and the players have done. It’s great for the country reaching a World Cup.
“I’ve never closed the door on playing for Scotland. I think being at Celtic, the main thing is playing here for the rest of the season.
“If you are playing well for Celtic then you get recognised by Scotland, because you are going for leagues, playing in cup finals and Europe. I’ve seen in the past, as a Celtic player, it does sometimes lead to Scotland as well.
“To be honest, the main focus is on doing well for Celtic, giving everything from now until the end of the season.
“I spoke to the manager a couple of times, maybe more at the start of last season and after we qualified. The manager has done great. He’s picked the teams that have done brilliantly to get to another competition. Everyone will back whatever decisions he makes.”
No summer holidays booked
Forrest’s last outing for his country came against Gibraltar in June 2024, but he has maintained contact with the national team boss while keeping himself in contention.
Not long ago, Forrest had fallen so far down the Scotland pecking order that he booked a summer holiday, only to cancel those plans after receiving a late call-up for the European Championship in Germany.
Nonetheless, this year, the veteran winger is leaving nothing to chance. With Celtic’s pre-season schedule dependent on their final league position, he has opted against making any travel arrangements, keeping himself free in case another opportunity with Scotland arises.
“I just want a good finish to the season”
James Forrest added: “To be fair, we don’t know when we will be back in with Celtic yet either, so no, nothing is booked! Everything is always a bit last minute when you are a footballer anyway.”
“I was booked up before the Euros but ended up going. I’ve been part of the last two Euros and that was great. But, as I said, the main one is Celtic but if it happens, it happens. I just want a good finish to the season.”
Conor Spence
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