Last Updated on June 21, 2024
Following Scotland’s consecutive appearances in the European Championships, head coach Steve Clarke is now tasked with selecting a 23-man squad. Scotland is in Group A, with host Germany, Hungary, and Switzerland. The competition begins on Friday, June 14, in Munich, with an interesting matchup between Germany and Scotland.
Final Squad Selection on the Horizon
Scotland started their campaign in solid form, winning all five matches. They won crucial matches over Spain at Hampden Park and Erling Haaland’s Norway in Oslo. Due to this remarkable performance, Scotland finished second in Group A and qualified for the Euros for the second time in a row.
Clarke rotated 29 players during the season, and Scotland lost only one of eight games. Now that he’s had a well-deserved vacation, his focus will move to picking the players for his ultimate squad.
Who Will Wear the Gloves at Euro 2024?
Angus Gunn, Norwich’s excellent goalkeeper, won the prized No. 1 jersey at the start of the campaign. Despite facing stiff opposition from Zander Clark and Liam Kelly, Gunn’s dedication to Scotland took over, despite his past engagement with the England U21s.
He replaced Craig Gordon, who was recovering from a double leg break suffered during Hearts’ Christmas Eve encounter against Dundee United in 2022.
After returning to training, Craig Gordon has the opportunity to replace Clark on the team before the season finishes. If he succeeds, Gordon may find ways to fit into the team’s plans.
Scotland’s goalkeeping condition remains intriguing. While Angus Gunn is now at the top, Zander Clark has impressed during Gunn’s recent injury layoff. With veteran Craig Gordon possibly returning to the battlefield, the competition heats up. Lastly, the decision is in Steve Clarke’s hands, with fans and analysts looking forward to his final word.
Sticking with Proven Winners or Adapting to New Talent?
Steve Clarke has been consistent in his backline selections, choosing Hickey, Porteous, Patterson, Hendry, Tierney, and Robertson. While other defenders receive playing time, those six will be expected to remain the backbone.
Similarly, the midfield quartet of McGinn, McGregor, and McTominay, together with Christie and Dykes up front, are most likely guarantees.
Armstrong, McLean, and Gilmour are consistent, while Jack and Ferguson, who played less, still have doubts. Boyd believes Clarke will remain with his familiar players unless new talent develops or Premier League stars switch sides.
Nisbet’s Fitness Adds More Layers: Will He Recover in Time?
While Christie, Dykes, and Adams appear to be locked into the Scotland team, coach Clarke faces a conundrum on the offensive front. Shankland’s recent hot streak, which includes goals for both team and country, positions him as a strong candidate.
Brown, although starting last time, lacks goal-scoring potential. Nisbet’s fitness introduces another factor. Boyd supports Shankland, stressing his finishing ability and current form. The ultimate choice is still up to Clarke.
Anderson Out, Gordon Chooses England, Others Contemplate Scotland
Scotland coach Steve Clarke has preferred a consistent player pool, though newcomers such as Harvey Barnes (recovering from injury) may appear.
While Elliot Anderson earlier withdrew and Anthony Gordon selected England, others with Scottish connections may be persuaded by the team’s Premier League participation and strong qualification campaign under Clarke.
Former player Kris Boyd appreciates such opportunities, underscoring the advantages of playing against elite competition. However, the core group that clinched a tournament position remains the primary emphasis.
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