Focus on skills instead of size, says Ryan Christie

Ryan Christie has urged Scottish football to keep evolving and promote technique over size. The Scotland midfielder is renowned as one of the most skilful players in the country but growing up, he faced doubts from coaches due to his diminutive build.

“Finally at the age of 25 I’m built a bit bigger than the side of a five pound note now, but I was always told from the age of 14-15 that my chances would be limited because of the size, especially because I played in centre mid[field],” Christie told Between the Sticks, a rugby podcast which covers his native Highlands.

“In Scotland, it’s frowned upon if you’re under 6ft and playing centre mid. It’s a Scottish mentality, which is outdated now and I