As Scotland gears up for Euro 2024, uncertainties loomed over their squad dynamics. The team had been struggling with form, leaving many players appearing fatigued. However, the subsequent events took a drastic turn.
Despite acknowledging the varying levels of competition from Curaçao and Bolivia, Scotland’s impressive display of scoring eight goals in consecutive friendlies has clarified Steve Clarke’s strategy. Ahead of Saturday’s World Cup match against Haiti, the team now seems revitalized.
Clarke had previously favored a sole striker approach, typically featuring Ché Adams. However, the emergence of Lawrence Shankland, combined with a desire to enhance Scotland’s attacking prowess, has prompted a shift in tactics. The duo of Shankland and Adams showcased their synergy against Bolivia in New Jersey, netting three out of Scotland’s four goals. It’s hard to imagine they won’t be the starting pair against Haiti.
Shankland’s current form was evident as he expressed disappointment during post-match interviews for failing to convert a chance from Kieran Tierney that could have extended the score to 5-0. He also addressed his status as a likely starter for the national team.
“You never assume anything in football,” stated the 30-year-old. “When you get the chance to play, your goal is to perform at your best, and I’ve always maintained that.”
“Every time we gather with Scotland, the sentiment among the players is unified. You aim to impress the manager when he makes decisions. That’s the only control we have. These friendlies have been beneficial for me; I’ve scored a few goals and my performances have been satisfactory. I feel good about my case for selection. However, I will never take my place for granted.”
Assuming no last-minute issues arise, both Aaron Hickey and Andy Robertson are expected to fill the full-back roles against Haiti. The match against Bolivia didn’t provide a comprehensive assessment of Grant Hanley and Jack Hendry as a central defense pairing or Angus Gunn in goal, but they seem to be the preferred choices. Clarke’s most pressing challenge lies in fitting five players—Scott McTominay, Ryan Christie, John McGinn, Lewis Ferguson, and Ben Gannon-Doak—into just four midfield spots. McTominay’s place is assured, while Clarke has confidence in both Christie and McGinn. Gannon-Doak’s remarkable speed is a considerable advantage, and Ferguson’s holding style could offer tactical benefits.
“I’ve experienced the disappointment of not playing,” Shankland reflected. “That feeling is normal in football. Yet, the camaraderie we share in the locker room has always been a strong point. It feels almost like a club atmosphere, and that has been the case for the past four or five years.”
“There are many familiar faces who have played together for a long time. Disappointments are part of the game, but when we hit the training ground again, we’re ready to give our all. Everyone contributes to that dynamic.”
“We head into our opening match with confidence. Our preparations have been solid, and we have another week to build on that. I was only three years old when we last competed in a World Cup, so this is a long-awaited moment. The enthusiasm among the players is fantastic.”
Shankland’s future at Hearts was uncertain last summer following a challenging season. He chose to stay in Edinburgh, leading the club to the brink of a Scottish title, and this summer utilized a clause in his contract to transfer to Rangers after the domestic season ended. He acknowledged experiencing “ups and downs” recently.
“I haven’t had the luxury to overthink things,” he admitted. “With the excitement of the World Cup on the horizon, it’s easier to move on, even if it sounds harsh. In football, you have to adapt quickly. There was disappointment at not winning the league, but after a few quiet days at home, I had to confront it and let it go.”
Scotland will spend the upcoming days at their training base in Charlotte before heading to Boston for their opening match.
