Josh Doig has quickly become one of the most exciting young talents in Scottish football. The left-back, currently playing for Serie B club Sassuolo, has already made a name for himself with his impressive performances for Hibernian, Hellas Verona, and the Scotland U21 national team. This article will delve into the life and career of Josh Doig, exploring his journey from the youth ranks to the professional leagues, and examining what makes him such a promising prospect for the future.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Josh Thomas Doig was born on May 18, 2002, in Edinburgh, Scotland. He began his footballing journey in the youth system of Heart of Midlothian, one of Edinburgh’s two professional football clubs. However, he later made the switch to their rivals, Hibernian, where he continued his development.
Doig’s potential was clear from an early age, and he quickly progressed through the ranks at Hibernian. In February 2020, he signed his first professional contract with the club, committing his future to the Easter Road side. To gain experience, he was loaned out to Queen’s Park for the remainder of the 2019-20 season.
Breakthrough at Hibernian
Doig’s loan spell at Queen’s Park proved to be a valuable experience, and he returned to Hibernian a more mature and well-rounded player. He was added to the first-team squad for the 2020-21 season, and he made his competitive debut for the club on August 1, 2020, in a 2-1 win against Kilmarnock.
The young left-back quickly established himself as a regular starter for Hibs, impressing with his energetic performances and his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. His impressive form did not go unnoticed, and he was linked with a number of clubs in England and Scotland, including Celtic.
Doig’s breakthrough season culminated in him being named the SFWA Young Player of the Year, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the team. He also helped Hibernian reach the final of the Scottish Cup, where they were narrowly defeated by St Johnstone.
Moving to Italy: Hellas Verona
After another impressive season with Hibernian, Doig made the move to Italy in July 2022, signing a four-year contract with Serie A club Hellas Verona. This was a significant step in his career, as he sought to test himself in one of Europe’s top leagues.
Doig’s time in Verona was a success, and he quickly adapted to the demands of Italian football. He made his Serie A debut in a 1-0 loss to Atalanta and provided an assist in his second appearance a week later. He scored a goal on his first start for Verona, a 2-1 win against Sampdoria on September 4.
The young Scot’s impressive performances in Serie A earned him plaudits from fans and pundits alike. He was even named in the Serie A Team of the Week on one occasion, a rare feat for a young player in his debut season.
Current Club: Sassuolo
After impressing in Serie A with Hellas Verona, Doig made a move to fellow Serie A club Sassuolo in January 2024. The transfer fee was reported to be €6 million, plus €1 million in add-ons, with a 10% sell-on clause in favor of Verona on a future transfer.
Doig was handed the number 43 shirt at Sassuolo and made his debut for the club on January 28, 2024, during the 22nd Serie A matchday against AC Monza. He provided two assists and played his 50th Serie A match against Lazio in a 1-1 draw at the Stadio Olimpico.
International Career
Doig has also represented Scotland at various youth levels. He was selected in the Scotland U18 squad in September 2019 and played in a 2-1 win against Paraguay. The following month, he was selected in the Scotland U19 squad.
In May 2021, after a successful individual season for Doig in which he was named the SFWA Young Player of the Year, he was selected for the Scotland under-21 squad. He was later forced to withdraw through injury. Doig was added to the full Scotland squad for the first time in September 2022. He was selected for the full squad again in November 2023, following injuries to Andrew Robertson and Kieran Tierney.
Style of Play
Doig is a versatile and dynamic left-back who is capable of contributing both defensively and offensively. He is known for his energy, pace, and crossing ability. He is also a strong tackler and is not afraid to put in a challenge.
Doig’s attacking attributes make him a valuable asset to any team. He is able to get forward and create chances for his teammates, and his crossing ability is a real threat in the final third. He is also a capable finisher, as he showed with his goal against Sampdoria for Hellas Verona.
Future Prospects
Josh Doig is still a young player, but he has already shown that he has the potential to become a top-class left-back. His performances for Hibernian, Hellas Verona, and Sassuolo have been impressive, and he is now a regular for the Scotland U21 national team.
With his talent and work ethic, Doig has a bright future ahead of him. He will be hoping to continue his development at Sassuolo and establish himself as one of the best left-backs in Serie A. He will also be aiming to break into the Scotland senior national team and represent his country at the highest level.
FAQs
Who is Josh Doig?
Josh Doig is a Scottish professional footballer born on May 18, 2002, in Edinburgh. He primarily plays as a left-back or left wing-back and has gained recognition for his performances in both the Scottish Premiership and Italy’s Serie A.
Which clubs has Josh Doig played for?
Josh Doig began his professional career with Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership. He was loaned to Queen’s Park in 2020 before returning to Hibernian. In July 2022, he transferred to Italian Serie A club Hellas Verona. As of January 2024, he plays for Sassuolo in Serie A.
What position does Josh Doig play?
Josh Doig primarily plays as a left-back or left wing-back, contributing both defensively and offensively on the left flank.
What are some of Josh Doig’s career highlights?
Hibernian: Doig made his professional debut with Hibernian and was a regular starter during the 2020–21 season. He was named the Scottish Football Writers’ Association Young Player of the Year for that season.
Hellas Verona: After transferring to Hellas Verona in 2022, Doig made an immediate impact by scoring on his first start in a 2–1 victory against Sampdoria on September 4, 2022.
Sassuolo: In January 2024, Doig joined Sassuolo and continued to showcase his talents in Serie A.
Has Josh Doig represented Scotland internationally?
Yes, Josh Doig has represented Scotland at various youth levels, including the U18 and U21 teams. He received his first call-up to the senior national team in September 2022.
What awards has Josh Doig won?
In the 2020–21 season, Doig was honored with the Scottish Football Writers’ Association Young Player of the Year award, recognizing his outstanding performances with Hibernian.
What is Josh Doig’s playing style?
Josh Doig is known for his pace, defensive solidity, and ability to contribute to offensive plays. His versatility allows him to operate effectively as both a traditional left-back and a more advanced wing-back, providing width and support in attack.
How did Josh Doig’s transfer to Hellas Verona come about?
In July 2022, Hibernian accepted an offer exceeding £3 million from Hellas Verona for Doig. He subsequently signed a four-year contract with the Italian club, marking his first move abroad.
How has Josh Doig performed in Serie A?
Josh Doig made a notable start in Serie A by scoring on his first start for Hellas Verona in September 2022. He continued to deliver solid performances, contributing both defensively and offensively. His consistent displays led to a transfer to Sassuolo in January 2024, where he has maintained his form in Italy’s top division.
What is Josh Doig’s current club?
As of January 2024, Josh Doig plays for Sassuolo in Italy’s Serie A. He joined the club from Hellas Verona during the January transfer window.
To conclude
Josh Doig’s football journey exemplifies the progression of a talented young player making his mark in professional football. Starting from his early days in Edinburgh, he has demonstrated adaptability and skill, earning accolades in Scotland before venturing into Italy’s Serie A. His ability to perform consistently at a high level has garnered attention and respect from clubs and fans alike. As he continues his career with Sassuolo, Doig’s development will be closely watched by those who appreciate his contributions to the sport.
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