Anthony Ralston's Scotland explosion as Celtic star 'Brickiesta' leapfrogs Nathan Patterson in the nation's eyes

He was the odd man out in the right-back debate and some were even surprised to see him in the squad.

But what a pleasant surprise it's proved to be as Anthony Ralston was the star of the show against Armenia.

The term "fairytale" does him a disservice, as there was no fairy godmother or magic beanstalk that got him here. Just plain old hard work and determination.

But there was definitely something of the magical realism about it as he rose at the back post and momentarily turned into Lyndon Dykes. His first goal on his first ever start for his country.

It was such a strong performance from the 23-year-old, it earned him the label Brickiesta from punters, a development on the 'Holy Brickie' moniker bestowed by adoring Celtic fans.

And he's now widely viewed as the starting right-back for the present, with fans and pundits in near universal agreement.

Nathan Patterson is a star but isn't playing for Everton. Stephen O'Donnell's time has come and gone, and Aaron Hickey showed against Ukraine that he's not the solution yet.

Ralston is the Goldilocks right-back - he's just right for what Scotland need now .

Reacting to his performance, Kris Boyd reckons he's the perfect counterweight to Andy Robertson on the other side, something that has been missing since Patterson's injury put the starting spot up for grabs.

He said on Sky Sports : "It just shows you what can happen if you wait patiently and take your opportunity when it comes. He's done that this season at Celtic and you saw him last night, he was excellent up and down the right.

"He got his goal and he was a real outlet as well. Armenia sat in and it was crucial Ralston and Robertson stretched the pitch.

"They were both really, really good."

There were