Selecting the Scotland squad for Euro 2024 involves careful consideration of both experienced players and emerging talents. Here is a comprehensive look at the potential squad based on recent predictions and analysis:
Goalkeepers
- Craig Gordon (Hearts)
- Angus Gunn (Norwich City)
- Liam Kelly (Motherwell)
Defenders
- Andy Robertson (Liverpool) – Team captain and crucial on the left flank.
- Kieran Tierney (Real Sociedad, on loan from Arsenal) – Key figure in defense.
- Grant Hanley (Norwich City) – A solid defensive option, though currently an injury doubt.
- Scott McKenna (Nottingham Forest)
- Nathan Patterson (Everton)
- Jack Hendry (Al-Ettifaq)
- Ryan Porteous (Watford)
- John Souttar (Rangers)
- Greg Taylor (Celtic)
- Anthony Ralston (Celtic)
- Liam Cooper (Leeds United)
- Aaron Hickey (Brentford) – His inclusion depends on his recovery from injury.
Midfielders
- Scott McTominay (Manchester United) – Versatile and a key leader.
- John McGinn (Aston Villa) – Known for his dynamism and goal contributions.
- Billy Gilmour (Brighton) – Essential for his vision and midfield control.
- Ryan Christie (Bournemouth)
- Stuart Armstrong (Southampton) – Another injury concern.
- Kenny McLean (Norwich City)
- Elliot Anderson (Newcastle United)
- Ryan Jack (Rangers)
Forwards
- Lyndon Dykes (Queens Park Rangers)
- Che Adams (Southampton)
- Lawrence Shankland (Hearts)
Key Considerations
- Injuries: Lewis Ferguson (Bologna) is out, and there are doubts about Stuart Armstrong, Nathan Patterson, Aaron Hickey, and Grant Hanley.
- Tactics: Steve Clarke is likely to use a 3-5-2 or 5-3-2 formation, utilizing Robertson and Tierney in advanced roles where possible.
- Experience vs. Youth: Clarke will blend seasoned players with promising young talents to maintain balance and dynamism.
The squad aims to leverage its solid defense and midfield creativity, with Robertson and Tierney playing pivotal roles both defensively and offensively (FootballCritic) (fourfourtwo.com) (Sky Sports) (Ladbrokes) (Squawka) (Sky Sports).