The Rangers goalkeeper, who is currently third choice under Steven Gerrard at Ibrox, was replaced by Doohan while on international duty this week.
The Celtic goalkeeper Ross Doohan has been discussing his relationship with Rangers’ Robby McCrorie.
Doohan and McCrorie shared the role of Scotland Under-21s’ number one during the recent international break, with the Celtic youngster replacing his Rangers colleague for Tuesday’s defeat against England.
But despite their club allegiances, the pair’s rivalry is seemingly a healthy one.
“I’ve known Robby for years after playing with and against each other. We both know it’s a competition for one place,” Doohan is quoted as telling the Scottish Sun. “You have just got to try your best, and when you get the chance you must take it.
“Unless you are a keeper you can’t know what it’s like to make a mistake that way. You’ve got to try and keep each other positive and keep each other going.”
Doohan is currently enjoying his first prolonged spell of senior football, on loan to Ayr United from Celtic, whereas McCrorie has been elevated to third choice at Rangers after a spell at namesakes, Berwick, last season.
And the Bhoys’ academy product is better for the experience.
“Going out on my own and playing first-team football has made a big difference,” added Doohan.
“There’s a big difference between reserve football and the real thing. Getting a taste of it this year and playing every week gives you match sharpness.
“I was happy to make the saves against England when called upon. If the chances come for them I’ve got to do my best to try and save them.”
Some Rangers fans felt Doohan could have done better with England’s first goal, and called for McCrorie’s reinstatement afterwards – although the Ibrox youngster was heavily criticised for his role in Friday’s defeat against Ukraine.
Doohan-McCrorie is of course not the only Celtic vs Rangers goalkeeping battle in Scotland’s ranks, with the respective Bhoys and Gers shot-stoppers Craig Gordon and Allan McGregor currently going toe-to-toe to be Alex McLeish’s number one.
Should Celtic’s Doohan or Rangers’ McCrorie be Scotland Under-21s’ first choice?
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