Ex-Nottingham Forest striker Jason Cummings has progressed to the knockout stages of the World Cup with Australia. After doing so, a remarkable statistic has emerged regarding the feat accomplished by the Central Coast Mariners man.
Australia have defied the odds in reaching the last 16 in Qatar. They were battered 4-1 by France in their opening group game but have bounced back to defeat Tunisia and Denmark to progress.
Cummings has failed to get on the pitch during the last two games. He was introduced during the opening game defeat to France, however, playing for the final 34 minutes during the drubbing.
It was an intriguing decision for the 27-year-old to turn his back on playing for Scotland. He has made two appearances for the country of his birth but opted to switch his allegiance to Australia on the eve of the World Cup.
Now, his decision looks justified. The man who played 17 times for Forest earlier in his career is facing a date against Argentina and Lionel Messi, with the Socceroos delighting their fan base.
Cummings never showed his true potential at Forest. It’s fair to say that he never really showcased much at all during his time in England. The striker managed just four goals from his 17 outings in the Garibaldi.
Cummings has progressed to knockout stages of World Cup
A remarkable statistic has emerged after Cummings enjoys a stunning day with Australia. He’s now progressed further in the World Cup than any player in the history of the Scottish national team ever has.
That is quite ridiculous really. Indeed, had he chosen to stay with Scotland then not only would he probably not be in the squad but he’d have practically zero chance of qualifying for a World Cup.
Now, Cummings will hope to get on the pitch when Australia take on Argentina. With Messi and Co having already been defeated by Saudi Arabia during this tournament, the Socceroos might fancy their chances.
Forest had high hopes for Cummings. He was signed by Mark Warburton as a young player but sadly he just couldn’t hold down a regular place in the team during his time at the City Ground.
All parties have now moved on. Forest fans will watch the Australia v Argentina game with intrigue and it would be quite something if he could score the goal that sends Messi packing.