Scotland faces a crucial two-legged play-off against Greece in a bid to retain their spot in the Nations League’s top tier. With injuries and squad selection headaches mounting, Steve Clarke has some tough decisions to make. How should he approach this high-stakes fixture in Piraeus?
Balancing Experience and Fresh Legs
Goalkeeping is the first major question. With Angus Gunn absent, Clarke must decide between veteran Craig Gordon, still going strong at 42, and younger options Liam Kelly and Cieran Slicker. Given the magnitude of the occasion and the inexperience of the alternatives, Gordon’s leadership and shot-stopping ability should see him get the nod.
At right-back, injuries have narrowed the options to Anthony Ralston and Max Johnston. Ralston, despite limited minutes for Celtic, has delivered solid performances for Scotland in the past. Johnston, a regular for Sturm Graz, offers a dynamic presence. Clarke may favor Ralston for his defensive stability in a potentially hostile atmosphere.
On the left, Kieran Tierney’s return presents the familiar dilemma—where to play him alongside captain Andy Robertson. The best solution? A back three, with Tierney slotting in as a left-sided centre-back and Robertson playing as a wing-back.
Midfield Combinations and the Risk of a Teenage Debut
Scotland’s midfield has some strong options but also tough omissions. Ryan Gauld, Connor Barron, and Stuart Armstrong miss out, while 18-year-old Lennon Miller receives his first call-up. But is a high-stakes play-off the right time for a teenage debut?
The midfield trio should revolve around experience and form. Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay provide composure and energy, while Lewis Ferguson’s performances for Bologna make him a prime candidate to start. McGinn’s ability to link midfield and attack means he could also slot into an advanced role.
- Gilmour: Composed passer, dictates tempo.
- McTominay: Physical presence, late runs into the box.
- Ferguson: All-round dynamism, strong ball carrier.
Attack Without Ben Doak: Who Leads the Line?
With Ben Doak injured, Scotland lacks an out-and-out winger with blistering pace. Clarke could compensate with a more compact attacking structure, relying on full-backs to provide width.
Lyndon Dykes is absent, and Lawrence Shankland was omitted. That leaves Che Adams as the main striker, but should Clarke take a gamble on the untested James Wilson or George Hirst? Given the occasion, experience should win out.
A front three of Ryan Christie, Che Adams, and John McGinn provides movement, pressing intensity, and goal threat.
Potential Line-up and Formation
A back-three system suits Scotland’s strengths while addressing defensive concerns.
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Craig Gordon |
| RCB | Jack Hendry |
| CB | Ryan Porteous |
| LCB | Kieran Tierney |
| RWB | Anthony Ralston |
| LWB | Andy Robertson |
| CM | Billy Gilmour |
| CM | Scott McTominay |
| CAM | John McGinn |
| RW | Ryan Christie |
| ST | Che Adams |
This structure provides defensive solidity, overlapping width, and a balanced midfield.
Team Talk: Clarke’s Final Rallying Cry
“Lads, this is why we play football—massive games, under the lights, backs against the wall. Greece will throw everything at us early. Stay compact, stay disciplined, and let the game come to us. When we attack, let’s be direct. Quick transitions, no wasted touches. Believe in yourselves. We’ve beaten top teams before—we can do it again. Now go out there and show them what Scotland is made of!”
