Scotland's Euro 2024 squad, led by Steve Clarke, features key players despite injuries, with a few surprising inclusions and exclusions.
Two days ago, Scotland's manager Steve Clarke unveiled his preliminary squad for Euro 2024 sparking discussions and debates among fans and analysts alike.
As the tournament approaches, with the opening game against hosts Germany on June 14, the composition of the team reflects both strategic choices and forced adjustments due to injuries.
UEFA recently confirmed an increase in squad sizes from 23 to 26 players for this year’s tournament, a decision influenced by the extended club seasons and the subsequent higher risk of injuries.
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This rule change comes after similar adjustments in the last two men’s tournaments. Despite this, Clarke has named a 28-player squad, with further cuts necessary by June 7.
The headline names making the squad include Liverpool's stalwart defender Andy Robertson and Manchester United's midfielder Scott McTominay.
Both players have had their challenges with injuries this season but are set to play crucial roles in Germany. Joining them in the midfield are John McGinn of Aston Villa and Callum McGregor from Celtic, both expected to be pivotal in Clarke's setup.
Stuart Armstrong, despite missing recent action due to injury, and Billy Gilmour of Brighton & Hove Albion are also selected, underscoring Clarke’s faith in their abilities to recover and contribute.
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Kieran Tierney, currently on loan at Real Sociedad, is another notable inclusion, expected to take on a senior role despite a mixed season at club level. Forward Lyndon Dykes is listed among the five designated attackers, adding depth to the front line.
The goalkeeping position sees Angus Gunn of Norwich City among the four initially selected, although this will be trimmed down to three as per UEFA’s guidelines.
However, not all news from the Scottish camp is positive. The squad has been hit hard by injuries, with Nathan Patterson, Aaron Hickey, and Lewis Ferguson all ruled out from participating in the upcoming European Championship.
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Their absence has opened doors for Ross McCrorie and Ben Doak, who, despite their lack of previous appearances for the national team, have been called up as potential wild cards.
Midfielders Ryan Jack and James Forrest also find their names on the list, hoping to make a significant impact.
On the flip side, attackers Jacob Brown and Kevin Nisbet, with minimal international experience and success, find themselves on the outside looking in, missing out on the final squad.
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Before the squad is finalized, Scotland will test their mettle in friendlies against Gibraltar on June 3 in Almancil, Portugal, and Finland four days later.
Scotland squad
Goalkeepers: Zander Clark, Craig Gordon, Angus Gunn, Liam Kelly
Defenders: Liam Cooper, Grant Hanley, Jack Hendry, Ross McCrorie, Scott McKenna, Ryan Porteous, Anthony Ralston, Andy Robertson, John Souttar, Greg Taylor, Kieran Tierney
Midfielders: Stuart Armstrong, Ryan Christie, Billy Gilmour, Ryan Jack, John McGinn, Callum McGregor, Kenny McLean, Scott McTominay
Attackers: Che Adams, Ben Doak, Lyndon Dykes, James Forrest, Lawrence Shankland
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