Former Celtic legend Chris Sutton stands out as the singular dissenter in the uproar over penalties in Scotland following their elimination from Euro 2024 by Hungary.

During the crucial Group A clash, the Scottish team, led by Steve Clarke, fervently protested for a late penalty when Stuart Armstrong was brought down in the box by Will Orban. Despite the fervent appeals from the Scottish fans in Stuttgart, referee Facundo Tello dismissed their pleas, with the VAR team opting against a review of the incident.

Scotland’s dream of advancing to the last 16 was shattered by a late Kevin Csoboth goal, leaving Clarke’s side at the bottom of Group A. While former English football icons Alan Shearer and Ian Wright criticized the referee’s decision, Chris Sutton was unyielding, pointing out that Armstrong should have attempted a shot on goal instead of looking for a foul.

In an interview with BBC 606, Sutton expressed, “Some Scotland fans are upset about the penalty decision, but I didn’t see it that way. Stuart Armstrong should have attempted a shot instead of seeking a foul from Olban. I understand the fans’ frustration, but I disagree. Shearer and Wright got it wrong this time.”

Sutton reiterated his stance despite criticism from his fellow former players, suggesting fatigue might have clouded their judgment. He emphasized Armstrong’s fitness issues and questioned why the midfielder didn’t go for goal, urging him to “put your foot through it” instead of focusing on drawing a foul.