Neil Lennon has expressed his disappointment after 19-year-old striker Andrew Tod was omitted from the Scotland Under-21 squad for this month’s fixtures against Gibraltar and Bulgaria.
Andrew, who has been in scintillating form for the Pars this season, has scored ten goals in 15 appearances and has featured for 1,150 minutes of competitive football. The young striker is currently the second-leading goalscorer in the Championship, yet failed to make the cut for the national youth side.
“I’m bewildered by that decision,” the Dunfermline boss said. “We were asked if he was fit for duty a week or so ago. They have been to watch him. He scored in the game, he played great in the game and he is still not in the squad, so I am lost for words on that one.”
Neil Lennon who has moved the 19 year-old into a striker’s role this season, believes Andrew’s statistics speak for themselves and feels the youngster has done everything required to earn international recognition:-
“It’s there for everyone to see. Not only the form he’s in but what a talent he is as well. From that point of view it’s really disappointing. From a club point of view it’s disappointing – he is the second leading goalscorer in the league. He’s playing every game, he’s making massive contributions. If you look at his numbers and his stats, he’s a top player. They must have some good forwards in the Scotland Under-21 team.”
Neil, who watched the Scotland U21s in action in Portugal earlier this season believes Andrew would fit seamlessly into the national set-up:-
“I saw play Portugal and Andy would not look out of place in that starting eleven. He never made the squad. I’m disappointed for him but he’s fine about it. His time will come.”
The Pars manager has previously praised Andrew’s football intelligence and adaptability, having successfully played in different roles in his football career. He continued:-
“That’s just my opinion. You don’t have to listen to me. Obviously, people in the Under-21s know better than me.”
Despite the setback, Neil Lennon remains delighted with Andrew Tod’s progress and contribution to Dunfermline’s campaign:-
“I’m just happy with what we’ve got. I’m happy with the progress he has made, with his development and the season that he’s having. He’s been one of our most consistent players this season.”
The eldest son of Pars legend Andy Tod, Andrew has developed through the club’s youth system and loan spells at Elgin City and East Fife. After overcoming injury setbacks, including a knee problem last season, he has established himself as a key player in Neil Lennon’s first team this term.
A two-time SPFL Reserve Cup winner with Dunfermline in 2024 and 2025, Andrew Tod has proven himself at every level for the club. The question now is whether Scotland’s U21 selectors will take notice of his impressive Championship form.
