A Nation Again: The Inside Story of Scotland’s Emergence from the International Wilderness

by Andy Bargh

A Nation Again is the chaotic tale of the Scotland men's team's return to a major tournament after more than 20 years in the wilderness. Ten major tournaments had come and gone for Scotland since they reached France '98, but the birth of UEFA's Nations League offered a new route to glory. In early 2018, after a long search for Gordon Strachan's replacement, Alex McLeish became manager for a second time. But despite successfully navigating the Nations League group stage, it wasn't plain sailing, and his tenure ended after a shocking defeat at the start of Euro 2020 qualifying. With a play-off semi-final on the horizon, the Scottish FA turned to Steve Clarke, who took on the challenge of inspiring a team rooted in failure, creating a band-of-brothers mentality and figuring out how to organise this incredibly talented group of players. From a couple of the lowest lows came the highest high. With exclusive memories of those who were part of the journey, this is the story of how Scotland finally became a nation again.

Genres: Football

378 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 25, 2023

Reviews

[Kyle Mackenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Despite being an avid disciple of football ever since I could walk and talk I rarely follow it in the form of my Books. What a book to start it with. This was beautifully written and took me back to so many incredible moments following Scotland and yes I do remember where I was that night Marshall saved from Mitrovic in Belgrade, almost falling out of a 4 story tenement window from sheer joy and jubilation. Andy Bargh what an effort, and so glad I’ve got a copy signed by himself, Marshall and SOD.

[Dave McKee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can not put into words how over come with emotion I was when we qualified for the delayed European Championships in 2020. I honestly didn't believe I would ever see the likes again. See it we did. We came, we boogied, we were out after 3 games (no change there).

This book brilliantly documents our journey from the depths of International obscurity to being back among the big boys. With contributions from the players who made it happen, I loved reliving this journey.

While the author tends to use some irritatingly modern language ("limbs" to describe the reaction when Scotland scored or "swipe left" when a manager was contemplating taking job) but that is a small complaint.

A wonderful walk down a very recent memory lane.

[Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

A treasure trove of memories for any Scotland supporter, lovingly compiled and engagingly written, with fascinating insights from the players and managers who played their part in getting us there. The chapter on THAT night in Belgrade roars along at a rate of knots and is a particular pleasure to read through...especially now that we know how it ends!