Andy Robertson ‘couldn’t get Diogo Jota out of his head’ as Scotland book World Cup spot

Liverpool star Andy Robertson was overcome with emotion before Scotland’s World Cup play-off final win over Denmark as he paid tribute to his late friend Diogo Jota

Andy Robertson admitted “I couldn’t get Diogo Jota out of my head” after Scotland beat Denmark to secure their first World Cup qualification since 1998. The thrilling 4-2 triumph secured Steve Clarke’s team a spot in North America next summer – and afterwards Robertson’s thoughts were all about his former Liverpool team-mate, who died in a car crash in the summer.

Robertson recalled how he and Jota had talked of playing at the World Cup together, after his pal missed out on playing for Portugal at the tournament three years ago. “I’ve hid it well, but today I’ve been in bits. I know the age I’m at, this could be my last chance to go to the World Cup,” Robertson told the BBC.

“I couldn’t get my mate Diogo Jota out of my head today. We spoke so much about the World Cup.

“He missed out last time because of injury, I missed out because Scotland didn’t qualify and we always discussed what it would be like going to the World Cup.

“I was in a bit of trouble in my room earlier. I think I hid it well from the boys.

“I know he’ll be somewhere smiling over me tonight. I couldn’t get him out of my head all day.”

Despite being twice levelled by a 10-man Denmark following goals from Scott McTominay and Lawrence Shankland, Kieran Tierney put Scotland back in the lead during the third added minute. Kenny McLean then sealed the deal with a stylish goal from the halfway line.

“That just sums up this squad. Never say die, we just keep going right to the end,” the Scotland captain added.

“One of the craziest games of football. We’ve certainly put the country through it, but I’m sure it’s worth it – we’re going to the World Cup and I can’t believe it.

“This group of boys and staff, it’s the best group I’ve ever been involved in. The manager’s speech before the game in the hotel was unbelievable.

“He went through the big moment’s we’ve had. He said, ‘Let’s make it another one’. To do it for him, for all the staff, all the families, it is one of the greatest nights of my life.”