Nations League: Ryan Christie wants to cap ‘incredible season’ with Bournemouth & Scotland

Despite playing through a “frustrating” groin issue for much of this season, Christie has shone for Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth in the Premier League.

The Cherries are 10th in England’s top flight, with Christie scoring two goals and contributing three assists from a deeper-lying midfield role.

“It’s been a couple of seasons now that I’ve played that position, so I feel like I’m a bit more used to it now,” the 30-year-old said. “Obviously, we’ve had an incredible season so far.

“Everybody’s stepping up and really producing amazing football. It’s pretty special to be a part of it at club level.”

His performances have resulted in plaudits from fans and pundits alike, but the former Celtic man is not letting it go to his head.

“I’ve come to a stage in my career now, a bit older, where I’ve learned the lessons of trying not to get too high and trying not to be too low,” he said.

“Obviously, it’s certainly better hearing that stuff than going the other way. So I’m definitely not complaining.”

Christie has credited much of his development as a player on the south coast to Iraola and has revealed he sees similar traits between the Spaniard and national head coach Steve Clarke, who he would love to see stay on beyond his current contract.

“I think everybody’s absolutely loved his tenure so far,” Christie said of Clarke. “He’s been massive in terms of the success we’ve had.

“When you look back to where we were then and where we are now, it’s just complete chalk and cheese.

“I put that down mostly to him in terms of many aspects, the way we’re playing, the belief he gives us, the facilities we now train at, the hotels, everything pieced together.

“He’s just taken us to a different level.”