Sheffield United midfielder John Fleck made his long awaited Scotland debut last night.
Yet it was arguably a game to forget as the Scots lost 4-0 to Russia to end their hopes of automatic qualification to Euro 2020.
While it was clearly a poor evening all round, with it being his first appearance there was particular attention on Fleck.
The 28-year-old’s club form is superb, having been a key part of two promotions since joining the Blades a little over three years ago.
Now in the Premier League, Fleck continues to flourish and put in a man of the match performance against Liverpool less than two weeks’ ago.
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However, on the international stage things have not been so rosy. First called up by former Scotland manager Alex McLeish, Fleck failed to make it onto the pitch.
McLeish’s successor Steve Clarke is clearly more of a fan. But Fleck still missed out his last two squads due to getting married and then being injured.
So this debut has been a long time coming. In truth it couldn’t have gone much worse.
(Photo by DIMITAR DILKOFF/AFP via Getty Images)
What the fans thought about John Fleck on Scotland debut
Some of the most vocal supporters about Fleck on a night to forget in Moscow are those of Celtic.
Now it is worth mentioning that the Blades star was a product of the Rangers academy. Fleck is therefore unlikely to endear himself too much to the Hoops faithful.
Yet it is also difficult to argue that the result was anything short of a humiliation – one which Clarke called “lowest of the low.”
I don’t think there is any hope for Scotland. They are just wretched. Liam Palmer, John Fleck and Snodgrass are garbage. Steve Clarke must be wondering what the hell he’s gotten himself into and how to get out of it. @BBCSportScot @ScottishFA
— Once A Tim Blog (@once_tim) October 10, 2019
John fleck and snodgrass start . Christie Forrest Armstrong all on the Bench are ten times the players😂
— Luke Mohan (@LukeMohan1) October 10, 2019
If ever one players inclusion in a Scotland team confirms how low we have sunk it is John Fleck.
I honestly couldn’t tell you who at least 6 of tonight’s team for at club level.— JustEddieBolingoli (@edwardrice1) October 10, 2019
We need to stop picking players just because they play in the over hyped over rated EPL. John Fleck, never deemed good enough to play for Scotland, plays a few games in the EPL and he’s in the team . He’s 28 and played the majority of his career in the lower leagues.
— martin (@martibhoy5797) October 10, 2019
Blades defend their player
Just as the Celtic fans could have a biased opinion based on Fleck’s Gers background, those who support his current team fall into the same category.
Yet it is still encouraging that they are backing their man. Fleck may never have that dream relationship with the national team, but he is a hero at Bramall Lane.
Well played John Fleck. Only bit of quality out there. #RUSSCO
— Saudi Blades (@BladesDem) October 10, 2019
When John Fleck is asked if he wants to play for Scotland again 😂😂😂 #sufc #russia #Scotland #euro2020 pic.twitter.com/5nhVgXGu7L
— Russell Smith (@smiffy2609) October 10, 2019
Tbf, John Fleck always plays as a holding mid for Sheff Utd… 😳
— Sean White (@SeanWhite15) October 11, 2019
