Scotland is optimistic that Scott McTominay will be available for their match against Haiti on Saturday, even though the midfielder missed training on Thursday due to a stomach issue.
McTominay, regarded as one of Scotland’s key players, was notably absent during Steve Clarke’s final training session in North Carolina before the squad heads to Boston. This match marks Scotland’s first World Cup appearance in nearly three decades.
Inside the team camp, there are indications that McTominay’s absence from training was a precautionary measure rather than a serious concern about missing the game. Clarke is anticipated to provide an update on McTominay’s condition and any other players who may be affected during his pre-match press conference on Friday. McTominay showcased his skills in Scotland’s last World Cup warm-up match, contributing to a commanding 4-0 victory over Bolivia.
“Hopefully that doesn’t spread,” said McTominay’s teammate Kenny McLean. “I am sure everybody has fingers crossed that Scott will be fine. Everybody knows what Scott brings. It is quite apparent how big a player he is for us. For all that it has been a team effort [to qualify], and always will be a real team effort, we have special players at the core.
“He is up on a mural for a reason. He is a true talent, a special player, an amazing guy and an amazing part of the team. He is a big character around the place, but it is a team effort and I’m sure Scott would be the first to say that.
“I am sure everybody has fingers crossed that Scott will be fine. Everybody knows what Scott brings. It is quite apparent how big a player he is for us. For all that it has been a team effort [to qualify], and always will be a real team effort, we have special players at the core. “He is up on a mural for a reason. He is a true talent, a special player, an amazing guy and an amazing part of the team. He is a big character around the place, but it is a team effort and I’m sure Scott would be the first to say that. “He is desperate to play and his preparations have been amazing apart from maybe something he has eaten somewhere along the line.”
In addition, centre-back Scott McKenna has had his training limited due to a minor injury, with Jack Hendry and Grant Hanley likely to fill that role against Haiti. McLean expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness, stating, “We are fortunate we have looked after ourselves as well as we could and we are as ready as we can be,”
He added, “Minutes were spread out over the couple of friendly games and I think everybody is in great shape. The training has been amazing, intense when it has to be, and we cannot complain about the preparations.
“Minutes were spread out over the couple of friendly games and I think everybody is in great shape. The training has been amazing, intense when it has to be, and we cannot complain about the preparations. “It has always been the case that we push each other and help each other and try to get the best out of each other. That has always happened with every position in this squad. “The manager picks the squad based on what he is going to get out of everybody and what we are going to get out of each other. Competition for places is strong. Everybody wants the same outcome.”
