As Scotland approaches Euro 2024, the team grapples with numerous uncertainties surrounding their lineup. Recent struggles had left several players looking fatigued, and the subsequent events were anything but encouraging.
However, despite the varying standards of opponents like Curaçao and Bolivia, Scotland’s impressive feat of scoring eight goals in two consecutive friendlies has clarified the situation for coach Steve Clarke. Ahead of their World Cup opener against Haiti on Saturday, the team’s outlook appears significantly more optimistic.
Clarke had previously favored a single striker approach, typically relying on Ché Adams. Yet, with Lawrence Shankland’s resurgence and a desire to enhance Scotland’s attacking threat, this strategy has evolved. The dynamic duo of Shankland and Adams excelled in their match against Bolivia in New Jersey, netting three out of Scotland’s four goals. It’s hard to imagine them not featuring prominently against Haiti.
Shankland’s current form was evident during post-match interviews, where he voiced frustration at missing a chance from Kieran Tierney that could have extended the lead to 5-0. He also downplayed his status as a guaranteed starter for the national team.
“You never assume anything in football,” stated the 30-year-old. “When you get the opportunity to play, you must give your utmost. That has always been my approach.”
He elaborated, stating,
“Every time you represent Scotland, there’s a collective desire to impress the manager, especially when he has tough decisions to make. I’ve always taken this approach, and these recent friendlies have been beneficial. I’ve managed to score a few goals and have been satisfied with my performances. I’m comfortable with the case I’m making, but I’ll never assume a spot is guaranteed.”
Unless unexpected issues arise, both Aaron Hickey and Andy Robertson are set to start as full-backs against Haiti. The match against Bolivia may not have provided the best evaluation of Grant Hanley and Jack Hendry as a central defensive pair, or Angus Gunn in goal, yet they seem to be the favorites for those positions. Clarke’s primary dilemma now revolves around fitting five players—Scott McTominay, Ryan Christie, John McGinn, Lewis Ferguson, and Ben Gannon-Doak—into four midfield spots. McTominay’s inclusion is a certainty, while Clarke has faith in both Christie and McGinn. Gannon-Doak’s impressive speed is a significant advantage, and Ferguson’s role as a defensive midfielder might be tactically advantageous.
Shankland reflected on the challenges of not playing, noting,
“I’ve experienced disappointment when not selected, which is entirely normal in football. However, the camaraderie in our locker room has been a constant. It feels almost like a club atmosphere, which has been the case for several years.”
He continued,
“We have many familiar faces who have spent a long time playing together. While disappointments are part of the game, we must remain prepared for training and ready to contribute. Everyone has played their part in maintaining this unity.”
Shankland expressed confidence heading into the first match, stating,
“Our preparation has been solid thus far, and we have another week to refine our approach. I was only three years old the last time Scotland participated in a World Cup, so this opportunity is incredibly exciting for all of us.”
Last summer, Shankland faced uncertainty regarding his future at Hearts after a challenging season. He ultimately chose to stay in Edinburgh, leading the club close to a Scottish title victory, before activating a clause in his contract to join Rangers at the conclusion of the domestic season. He admitted to experiencing “ups and downs” in recent times.
“I haven’t had much time to dwell on things,” he said. “With the thrill of a World Cup on the horizon, it’s essential to keep moving forward. In football, one must adapt quickly. There were certainly disappointments regarding the league, but after a few days of reflection, I had to put it behind me.”
Scotland will spend the upcoming days at their training facility in Charlotte before heading to Boston for their first game.
