Hendry Eager to Face Neymar: 'I've Played Him Before'
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Scotland defender Jack Hendry expressed eagerness to face Brazil and Neymar in an upcoming match.
- Hendry stated he has played against Neymar multiple times in Saudi Arabia's league and is not intimidated.
- He also addressed a perceived argument with teammate Scott McTominay, denying any conflict.
Scotland defender Jack Hendry is looking forward to a crucial World Cup match against Brazil, potentially featuring Neymar, a player he has encountered several times in the Saudi Arabian league. Hendry, who has played for various European clubs before moving to Saudi Arabia's Al Ettifaq three seasons ago, shared his anticipation.
I'm looking forward to it... if he plays. It's no problem if he plays, I've faced him before.
"I'm looking forward to it... if he plays," Hendry said about Neymar. "It's no problem if he plays, I've faced him before." The Scotland starter acknowledged that facing Neymar is a challenge but one he is prepared for, having played against him in the Saudi league.
Hendry also addressed an incident during a previous match against Morocco where he appeared to argue with teammate Scott McTominay. He clarified that the situation was a result of the high tension and emotion of the game, denying any serious conflict or harsh words exchanged between them. "The camera can be misleading. It's a game of high tension and emotion but Scott wasn't upset, nor was there anything," he stated.
The camera can be misleading. It's a game of high tension and emotion but Scott wasn't upset, nor was there anything. There were no insults or harsh words.
The defender emphasized the significance of matches like the one against Brazil, stating that Scotland has worked hard to reach this point and is determined to capitalize on their strong position. He expressed pride in the team's current standing. Hendry praised the team's incredible spirit and focus, noting the demanding schedule of frequent matches.
Games like the one against Brazil are what one wants to play. We have worked hard to be where we are now. We are in a very good position and want to make the most of it. We can be proud of ourselves.
Regarding Brazil, Hendry acknowledged their status as a formidable opponent with a rich history in the competition. He stressed the need for constant concentration, as Brazilian players can change the game at any moment. Hendry also spoke positively about his personal adaptation to playing at this level and expressed satisfaction with his minutes on the field. He specifically commended teammate Lewis Ferguson of Bologna, describing him as a player who focuses on his work without unnecessary flair and serves as a true leader for the team.
They are players who can make a difference at any moment and can punish you with a lapse in concentration. It's going to be a great spectacle. Brazil's history in this competition is incredible.
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.