Rhodes Gets Scotland Backing

Blackburn Rovers striker Jordan Rhodes doesn’t always get selected for Scotland, however, when he does he doesn’t often play a part but Paul Lambert’s backed him to do so.

Rhodes scored eight goals in eight Under-21 Internationals for Scotland and when he broke into the full squad he scored three goals in his first five Internationals, however, since then (under Gordon Strachan in particular) he’s been in and out of the squad but Lambert feels he’s got more than a chance of making his mark.

Lambert himself knows from making his Scotland debut later in his career (then having a long international career with the Scots) this can come later with him of the opinion that twenty five year old Rhodes can do this too.

He told BBC Radio Scotland: “It’s not by any stretch of the imagination gone away from Jordan.

“I didn’t make my Scotland debut until 26, 27. He’s an absolutely predator in the penalty box. If it falls to him, you think more times than not he’s going to hit the target.“

What is it about the modern striker where scoring goals isn’t enough?? The game have moved on and most Manager’s want something more from a striker but Rhodes does what he’s employed to do, score goals!!

Lambert admits he’s got areas of his game to work on but definitely doesn’t want to lose him in January.

He added: “He’s got a bit of work to do holding the ball up and linking play up. In the penalty box, he’s definitely got a goal in him.

“He just loves scoring, even in training. He does shooting after training and he practices. He’s willing to learn and work but as an out and out goalscorer, he’s different class.

“We’ll do everything we can to keep him.“

The Rovers Manager also praised his fellow countryman (and Rovers skipper) Grant Hanley: “He’s been absolutely excellent for us.

“Grant’s a proper players’ player. He’s been absolutely colossal for us. If he keeps playing the way he’s going then it’s great for Blackburn, great for the national team.“

I’m always keen to see Rovers players play International football, however, if Strachan doesn’t think Rhodes is good enough for Scotland then it’ll be (or should be) to the benefit of us as it’ll not mean him having to go away for pointless friendlies at times and us risking losing him to injuries!!

The Scots loss can (and will) be to the gain of Rovers (as long as he stays at Ewood Park).