Barry Ferguson backs Celtic’s Jack Hendry as Scotland centre-half

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Jack Hendry joined Celtic from Dundee in January and is yet to make his international debut.

Former Rangers and Scotland captain Barry Ferguson has spoken of his belief that Celtic youngster Jack Hendry could be a starting centre-back for his country sooner rather than later.

The former Ross County star joined the Hoops in January after a number of defensive injuries in the Celtic squad, and has looked a decent signing despite limited appearances. So far, Hendry has made five outings for the Bhoys in the league, coming on in the 3-2 win over Rangers following Jozo Simunovic’s dismissal and producing a fine display.

Speaking to PLZ Soccer on 26 March 2018 about Scotland’s centre-back options, Ferguson praised recent debutant Scott McKenna, while suggesting fellow novice Hendry as his potential partner should he pick up some more experience with Celtic before the end of the season.

“Centre-half, I think big McKenna, I thought he did really well, he’s certainly a future Scotland centre-half,” Ferguson said.

“And you’ve got Jack Hendry at Celtic who’s played the last few games, if he gets may another five or 10 games under his belt at Celtic I think he could become a future Scotland centre-half.”

Scotland have been severely lacking in the centre-back department in recent seasons with the nation crying out for a commanding defender to be paired with the likes of Charlie Mulgrew, a very useful player but more technical and ball-playing than dominant.

With Mulgrew ageing, Scott McKenna could serve as the perfect partner for the Blackburn Rovers star in the heart of defence, with his big frame and physical presence, while Hendry – a similar ball playing type defender to Mulgrew – could serve as the former Celtic star’s deputy and future replacement.