Andy Robertson has shared an unconventional strategy for Scotland’s World Cup preparations, revealing that he organized a game of Traitors among the squad during their training camp in the United States.
Scotland is set to face Haiti in Boston, marking their first World Cup match since 1998. The focus on team cohesion has been a recurring theme as the tournament approaches. Although Robertson did not specify which teammates played as faithful or traitors, he clarified the rationale behind the game.
“It was something we had done before and decided to do again because we can spend a lot of time in our rooms or on our own,” the 32-year-old explained. “It is not easy being away from your family, your kids. It was something to try and get people out of their rooms, give quieter people a voice and give newer players a voice. So those were the ideas behind it.
“It is not easy being away from your family, your kids. It was something to try and get people out of their rooms, give quieter people a voice and give newer players a voice. So those were the ideas behind it. “Whether it has worked or not, I am not sure, but we certainly enjoyed it. That was last week, that is what took up our time after training was done. It is just about trying different ways of making time pass quickly because we knew these two weeks would probably drag. You just want the first game to come. So that, along with other things, helped to just quicken the time. It hasn’t felt too long that we have been away.”
Scotland’s preparations have also received a boost with Scott McTominay returning to training after a brief absence due to a stomach issue. The midfielder missed Thursday’s session but was back on the pitch by Friday, with manager Steve Clarke affirming that McTominay is in “I think I have 26 superstars here,” condition.
However, Clarke emphasized the importance of teamwork and downplayed the notion of McTominay being the team’s standout player. “To try and put so much on to one person is not fair. Everything over the last seven years has been the squad, the team, everyone being together and playing their part at certain times. We are delighted with Scott’s abilities and what he brings to the team but another 15 will have to do the same if we are going to have a positive tournament.” he stated. “It is important we respect the opposition,”
“Since they qualified they have improved the squad by bringing players in that have made them better. We think we know how they are going to play but obviously any team can become different. They have very dynamic players, especially the attacking players, so we have to be careful.”
