Josh Doig, a young Scottish footballer, has taken the football world by storm with his impressive performances at left-back. His rapid rise through the ranks has seen him garner interest from top clubs and earn a call-up to the senior Scotland squad.
Doig’s Football Journey
Born in Edinburgh in 2002, Doig’s footballing journey began at Heart of Midlothian’s youth academy. However, it was with Hibernian that he truly blossomed. After progressing through the youth ranks, Doig made his senior debut in 2020 at the tender age of 18. He quickly established himself as a regular starter, impressing with his attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
Doig’s breakout season came in 2020/21. His marauding runs down the left flank, coupled with his ability to whip in dangerous crosses, made him a constant threat. His performances were rewarded with the prestigious Scottish Football Writers’ Young Player of the Year award. This recognition further solidified his reputation as one of Scotland’s brightest young talents.
Doig’s talent attracted interest from abroad, and in January 2024, he secured a move to Italian Serie A side Hellas Verona. However, his stay there was short-lived. Just a few months later, Doig signed for Sassuolo, another Serie A club, showcasing his ambition to compete at the highest level.
Playing Style
Doig’s playing style embodies the modern full-back role. He is a natural left-footer, comfortable playing on the back foot and initiating attacks. Standing at 6ft 2in (1.89m), Doig utilises his height to win aerial duels and possesses good pace to track back and defend against quick wingers.
One of Doig’s most impressive attributes is his overlapping runs. He times his runs perfectly, providing an outlet on the left flank and stretching opposing defences. His pinpoint crosses create numerous goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates. Doig is also not shy about taking on defenders himself, using his dribbling skills to create space and deliver threatening passes into the box.
Defensively, Doig is a tenacious tackler and reads the game well. He is adept at anticipating danger and snuffing out attacks before they materialise. Doig’s positioning allows him to close down wingers effectively and prevent them from crossing the ball. While still young, he is constantly improving his defensive awareness and positioning, making him a well-rounded full-back.
International Aspirations
Doig’s impressive club performances haven’t gone unnoticed by the national team selectors. He has represented Scotland at various youth levels, including the U18 and U21 teams. In September 2022, Doig received his first call-up to the senior Scotland squad, although he did not feature in that particular international window.
With injuries to established left-backs Andrew Robertson and Kieran Tierney in November 2023, Doig was called up once again. Doig’s inclusion in the squad demonstrates the high regard in which the national team management holds him, even though he has yet to make his senior international debut. With continued development and consistent performances at club level, Doig is expected to be a mainstay in the Scotland squad for years to come.
What lies ahead for Josh Doig?
At just 22 years old, Doig’s future is brimming with possibilities. His move to Sassuolo is a significant step in his career, placing him on a bigger stage and allowing him to compete against some of the world’s best players. Adapting to the demands of Serie A will be crucial for Doig’s development.
Doig’s ambition and hunger for success are evident. He has already achieved a lot in his young career, but the best is yet to come. With his talent, dedication, and work ethic, Doig has the potential to become a world-class left-back. Whether he remains at Sassuolo or attracts interest from bigger clubs in the future, one thing is certain: Josh Doig is a name to watch in the world of football.
FAQs
Q: Where is Josh Doig from?
A: Josh Doig was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 2002.
Q: Which clubs has Josh Doig played for?
A: Doig started his professional career with Hibernian in Scotland. In 2022, he moved to Hellas Verona in Italy, and in 2023, he signed for Sassuolo, another Serie A club.
Q: What was Josh Doig’s breakthrough season?
A: Doig’s breakout season came in 2020/21 while playing for Hibernian. His impressive performances earned him the Scottish Football Writers’ Young Player of the Year award.
Q: What position does Josh Doig play?
A: Doig is a left-back, known for his attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
Q: What are Josh Doig’s strengths?
A: Doig’s strengths include his pace, overlapping runs, pinpoint crosses, dribbling skills, and tackling ability.
Q: Where will Josh Doig play next?
A: Doig currently plays for Sassuolo in Serie A. Transfer rumors are likely to follow him, so staying updated during transfer windows will be interesting.
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