How a £30m Liverpool star is been overlooked by Celtic

Being released from a prestigious academy can shape a footballer’s future path significantly. While this setback can end many careers, it can also ignite determination in others, as seen with Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford. Andy Robertson’s story is a prime example of this resilience. Despite being released by Celtic for being too small, Robertson used this early heartbreak as motivation, eventually achieving a stellar career with Liverpool, including winning the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League the following year.

Early Career

Rejected by the team he supported at 15

Developing his skills within the backdrop of Glasgow’s football-mad surroundings, Robertson showed great ability and tenacity in his formative years. A competitive, wiry and quick individual, with a wicked left foot, these traits were unfortunately overlooked by his beloved Celtic when he was a schoolboy – with his slight frame being the point of focus.

Following his release, he was nurtured by his high school and rekindled his love for football before eventually joining fellow Glasgow outfit Queen’s Park. Speaking years later about the situation, Robertson recalled:

“I was let go by Celtic at Under-15 level for being too small. That was the reason they gave me anyway.

“I went to Queen’s Park and people might have thought that was a strange decision to go from Celtic to there. I guess it is a step down but Queen’s Park have a great youth set-up and they made me the player I am today.”

Robertson was correct in his estimations. At the time, Queen’s Park may not have been the best team around, yet they offered a valuable platform for young players. In fact, there were multiple examples that shared the same background as Andy, being released by Rangers or Celtic.

Reborn With the Spiders

Robertson’s determination powered a heroic rise

In his early days at Queen’s Park, Robertson’s position varied. While his father thought he was a central midfielder, the Spiders’ coaching staff saw that his abilities were matched more-so to the requirements of left-back.

After playing with the U19s in this new-found territory, Robertson got called up to the first team at the beginning of the 2012–13 season and really kicked on from there. With the whole of the left-wing at his disposal, both defensively and offensively, Robertson truly showed what Celtic had missed.

In his first and only senior season with the amateur level Queen’s Park, Robertson made 43 appearances across all competitions and dazzled adoring fans, with one in particular describing his early growth:

“Andy was an exciting player to watch because you saw this trademark run with the ball – running down the touchline beating players, crossing the ball. That season, we went to finish third in the league (League Two).”

To Liverpool, via Dundee and Hull

A long and arduous journey that makes Robertson who he is

A small measure of belief was all Andy Robertson needed to catapult himself to success. After a standout season in Scotland’s fourth division, the 19-year-old joined Dundee United, where he quickly impressed in the Scottish top flight. His performances earned him the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year award and a spot in the PFA Scotland Team of the Year for the 2013–14 season.

Robertson’s progress led to a move to Hull City in 2014 for £2.85 million, where he quickly became a fan favorite. Despite Hull City’s relegation to the Championship, Robertson remained a stalwart and, alongside Harry Maguire, built a reputation for his determination and loyalty. His efforts helped Hull return to the Premier League via the play-offs in 2016, though the club faced relegation again the following season.

Liverpool then took a chance on Robertson with an £8 million transfer. The defender’s relentless drive and natural ability allowed him to thrive on the big stage. Within two years, Robertson helped Liverpool win the Champions League and was recognized as one of the world’s best full-backs. Premier League success followed in 2020, as Liverpool claimed their first top-flight title in 30 years. Robertson’s ascent to becoming Scotland’s top defender was further highlighted by his captaincy at Euro 2024.

At 30, Robertson’s journey is far from over, and his potential for future success remains bright. Reflecting on his achievements after the Champions League victory, Robertson’s words encapsulate his incredible journey and determination.

“I’m just a wee guy from Glasgow who never believed this could happen. I really am living the dream.”

From the trademark determination and sheer disregard to all the challenges he faced, that statement is hard to believe, and a little understated.