Scotland's Robertson carries Jota's dream to World Cup

Andy Robertson has spoken of playing the World Cup in memory of Diogo Jota.

Scotland captain Andy Robertson said he will carry the memory of former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota with him to the World Cup after receiving a letter from Jota’s widow ahead of the tournament.

Robertson said the message left him emotional and reminded him of the dream he and Jota shared of playing at the World Cup. Jota died in a car crash last July, and Robertson said the pair had spoken often about reaching football’s biggest stage.

Scotland secured qualification last year with a dramatic win over Denmark, ending a 28-year absence from the World Cup. Robertson said the result felt especially meaningful because it also fulfilled a personal ambition that he and Jota had discussed for years.

In the letter, Jota’s widow told Robertson that the dream was something the two players had nurtured together and said he would not be going to the tournament alone. Robertson said he would keep that message in mind when Scotland begin their campaign.

The Scotland captain said the tournament could be his last chance to play at a World Cup, making the moment even more emotional. He added that Jota would be in his thoughts when Scotland take the field