Sheffield Wednesday’s Barry Bannan opens up on missing Euro 2020 with Scotland

Bannan hasn’t played for Scotland since 2017 when Gordon Strachan was manager, but has played with many of the current crop of internationals that have managed to do themselves proud at Euro 2020 so far.

The Scots have a chance to make it through to the Round of 16 as they prepare to face Croatia later today, and the Owls skipper insists that there’s no bitterness at not being involved – only pride.

He told BBC Scotland in an interview this week, “I’m delighted, because I’m a fan first and foremost… If you’re not a player, you’re a fan, and it’s your country - and you’re patriotic and proud.

“There’s no jealously there on my side, I’m just glad that we’re watching a major tournament and that we’re there. It gives us something to support, and the boys are doing us proud. Hopefully that continues.

“I think the strength in depth in midfield is a massive part of why they’re doing so well, so you just have to take your hat off to the boys who’ve got the jerseys. Most of them are playing Premier League football at the top, so you can’t really do much about it. You just have to wait your turn and hope it comes again.

“But like I say, it’s tough to get into that squad at the minute and they’re keeping the jersey and doing well.”

Bannan has 27 caps for his nation since making his debut, and will no doubt be cheering them on later tonight as they aim to make some memories at Hampden Park by reaching the knockout stages of a major tournament for the first time ever.

Scotland need to get a win over Croatia if they’re to stand a chance of qualifying for the Round of 16, but the clash between England and Czech Republic will also have a say on where they might finish in the group.

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