Dundee United boss Jackie McNamara has lavished praise on Andy Robertson after the young full-back was named Scotland’s PFA Young Player of the Year last weekend.
The manager, who won the award himself when he was a player with Celtic in 1996, admits the accolade is just reward for everything Robertson has achieved in what is his first season as a full-time player, with the former Queen’s Park defender being a virtual ever present for the Tangerines and even winning his first full international cap in a friendly against Poland.
McNamara also believes the teenager, who was rejected at a young age by Celtic for being too small, should act as an inspiration to others.
He said: “It’s fantastic for Andy. He’s handled everything so well from day one. He did great against Wigan in pre-season and handled it really well so hasn’t looked back. I think it will all probably sink in overthe summer for him when he gets a week’s rest!
“It’s a great achievement to win the Young Player of the Year award, it’s a great story.
“For any young kid to take a second chance like he has it’s magnificent. He’s shown real determination to come back and make a career for himself.”
McNamara had previous experience of giving “rejects” another opportunity when he was manager at Partick Thistle.
And he admitted that he is on the lookout for further hidden gems in the lower leagues for United.
He said: “At Partick we brought in guys who had been rejected at a young age. We had boys who had been knocked back by Hibs, Aberdeen and Motherwell.
“Aaron Taylor-Sinclair was one of them and it’s reported that Aberdeen want him back now. You see things in these players and give them a second chance to prove themselves.
“There is a market there, not just in the ones who have been rejected but players in the lower leagues. You look around and there is some great talent out there, it’s just a case of people giving them a chance.
“It’s something we look at. We’re always looking at the lower leagues for players. There are a few on the radar at the moment.”
He added: “People are quick to look for names and want you to spend money, but the rise of Andy Robertson shows you can get these guys and bring them on.
“It shows if you do it properly and the kids are hungry enough, they can succeed. It’s not all about proving people wrong, it’s about wanting it. Andy has been ambitious and has been focused on getting where he wants to be.
“A few other clubs wanted him and I met his parents, spoke to them about playing here for us. I don’t think even they can believe what has happened to him in the 12 months since.”
German keeper Luis Zwick has started training with United in a bid to win a deal with the club.