Following a disappointing friendly loss to Japan on Saturday, Steve Clarke has indicated that he is poised to make significant adjustments to his Scotland team ahead of their upcoming match against Ivory Coast in Liverpool. With six or seven potential changes on the horizon, Clarke aims to refine his squad and assess various player performances before the World Cup begins in June.
Defensive Adjustments on the Horizon
In the wake of Scotland’s defeat, Clarke is expected to evaluate his defensive lineup closely. Angus Gunn started as goalkeeper against Japan, but there is a possibility that Clarke may opt to give other goalkeepers in the squad a chance to showcase their talents. Craig Gordon, if fit, is anticipated to be a contender for the starting position during the World Cup, while Liam Kelly and Scott Bain compete for the third spot. Among them, Bain is currently the only one consistently playing at the club level with Falkirk. However, it has been since March 2019 that he last represented Scotland.
Moreover, the back four is likely to undergo changes, given Clarke’s tendency to rotate his central defensive partnerships. Jack Hendry and Scott McKenna completed the full match against Japan, but regular defenders John Souttar and Grant Hanley are strong candidates to return to the starting lineup. With first-choice right-back Aaron Hickey still sidelined due to injury, Clarke might consider versatile Bristol City defender Ross McCrorie, particularly after Nathan Patterson's underwhelming performance before being substituted by Anthony Ralston.
Opportunities for Young Talent
An intriguing aspect of Clarke’s selection for the Ivory Coast fixture revolves around the younger players within the squad. With Ben Gannon-Doak unavailable due to injury, Tommy Conway took up the left-wing position and showed promise despite struggling early in the match. The Middlesbrough forward received commendation from Clarke following the game. Conway was later substituted for teenage winger Findlay Curtis, who faced challenges in making an impact on his senior international debut. Given the limited options available, it seems highly probable that these two will compete for starting roles on Tuesday.
In midfield, the inclusion of 19-year-old Lennon Miller could offer fresh energy to the lineup. Having gained more prominence in Serie A since January, the former Motherwell player will vie for his fifth cap at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium. With Lewis Ferguson and Kenny McLean having played the entire match against Japan, Miller’s opportunity could come at a pivotal moment. Additionally, Bournemouth’s Ryan Christie and Sparta Prague’s Andy Irving, who both began on the bench during the last match, may also feature prominently.
Striker Selection: Adams’ Return?
The forward line remains a topic of ongoing debate for Scotland fans and analysts alike. Lyndon Dykes led the attack against Japan but struggled to make a significant impact despite his hard work. Known for his physical presence, Dykes has a respectable record with 10 goals in 49 caps. However, George Hirst has been in formidable form in the English Championship, boasting a goal tally that far exceeds Dykes this season. Despite his efforts, Hirst missed a crucial opportunity against Japan and is expected to revert to the bench for the Ivory Coast match.
Having not played in the previous friendly, Torino's Che Adams is now favored to take the lead role in attack. Adams brings a different dynamic to the front line, characterized by his pace and slightly superior international goal record. Given Clarke's historical preference for both Adams and Dykes, it seems likely that this pairing will continue as they prepare for another challenging encounter. As Scotland gears up for the Ivory Coast, these strategic changes will be key to revitalizing the team's performance.
