As Scotland approaches Euro 2024, uncertainty looms over their squad, with players appearing fatigued and results lacking. However, recent performances have changed the narrative significantly.
Despite the varying quality of opponents like Curaçao and Bolivia, scoring eight goals in two successive friendlies has clarified Steve Clarke’s vision for the team. Ahead of their World Cup opener against Haiti on Saturday, Scotland seems re-energized.
Traditionally, Clarke utilized a lone striker, often relying on Ché Adams. However, with Lawrence Shankland’s impressive form, the strategy has evolved. The duo of Shankland and Adams showcased their chemistry in New Jersey, contributing three goals in Scotland’s 4-0 victory over Bolivia. It would be surprising if they are not selected to lead the attack against Haiti.
Shankland’s current form is evident, as he expressed frustration after missing a chance from Kieran Tierney that could have extended the lead to 5-0. He also addressed his position in the squad, stating,
“You never assume anything in football. What you can do, when you get the opportunity to go on the pitch, is put your best foot forward, and I’ve always said that.”
He continued,
“Every time you go away with Scotland, all the boys feel the same. You do your best and try to get into the manager’s head when he needs to make a decision. I’ve managed to get a few goals, and my performances have been decent as well. I’ve been happy with that. In terms of what I can control, yes, I’m pleased with the case I can put forward. But I’ll never, ever, think I’m certain to play.”
Assuming no last-minute injuries occur, Aaron Hickey and Andy Robertson are set to start as full-backs against Haiti. The match against Bolivia may not have revealed much about Grant Hanley and Jack Hendry as a defensive pair, nor Angus Gunn in goal, yet they appear to be the likely choices. Clarke’s primary dilemma now involves fitting five midfielders—Scott McTominay, Ryan Christie, John McGinn, Lewis Ferguson, and Ben Gannon-Doak—into four positions. McTominay’s inclusion is guaranteed, while Clarke has faith in Christie and McGinn. Gannon-Doak’s exceptional speed is a valuable asset, and Ferguson’s role as a holding midfielder could provide tactical advantages.
Shankland reflected on the competition for spots, saying,
“I’ve been on the other side of it when you’re disappointed not to play. That’s only normal in football. But the togetherness we’ve got in the changing room is something we’ve always had. There’s almost a club feel about it and it’s been that way for the last four or five years.”
He added,
“There are so many familiar faces with boys who have played together for a long time. Sure, you have your disappointments, but when you get out there for the next training session, you’re ready to train properly. Everybody has played their part in that throughout the time we’ve been together.”
Shankland expressed confidence as the team prepares for their opening match, stating,
“Our preparation has been good until now, and we’ve now got another week to continue that. I was just three years old the last time we played at a World Cup, so it’s been a long time. The excitement among the boys is brilliant.”
Last summer, Shankland’s future at Hearts seemed uncertain after a disappointing season. He chose to stay in Edinburgh, leading his club close to a Scottish title, and utilized a contractual clause to move to Rangers after the domestic season concluded. Reflecting on recent challenges, he said,
“I’ve not had too much time to overthink everything. When you have the buzz of a World Cup to look forward to, as bad as it sounds, you can move quickly. In football, you have to move quickly. There was disappointment at not winning the league, but after a few days of being quiet at home, I just had to deal with it and park it.”
As Scotland gears up, they will spend the next few days at their training facility in Charlotte before heading to Boston for their first match.
