As Scotland prepares for another critical chapter in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, head coach Steve Clarke has unveiled a squad featuring several fresh faces and returning players. Among the notable inclusions are goalkeeper Scott Bain, striker Lawrence Shankland, left-back Josh Doig, and versatile defender Ross McCrorie — all of whom have been handed opportunities to stake their claim in what promises to be a defining international window.
With crucial fixtures against Greece and Denmark looming, Clarke’s latest selection reflects both tactical adaptability and a willingness to reward form. For Scotland, who have made encouraging progress under Clarke’s leadership in recent years, these two matches represent more than just a quest for points — they are a test of depth, resilience, and ambition on the road to football’s biggest stage.
The Context Scotland’s Road to the World Cup
Scotland’s qualifying campaign has been a mixture of promise and frustration. After a solid start that included key victories over lesser-ranked nations, the Scots Bain stumbled in crucial away fixtures that exposed their lack of consistency in front of goal. Now sitting third in their group behind Denmark and Greece, every point counts as the race for qualification intensifies.
Clarke’s men know that a positive result against Greece could prove pivotal before facing group leaders Denmark — a side that has consistently proven to be Scotland’s nemesis in recent years. With several regular starters nursing injuries or struggling for form, this window provides both a challenge and an opportunity to redefine Scotland’s momentum.
“The next two games are massive,” Clarke said during the squad announcement at Hampden Park. “We’ve got to be brave, adaptable, and ready to fight for every inch. The lads coming in have been performing well for their clubs, and they deserve their shot.”
Scott Bain’s Return A Safe Pair of Hands
Celtic’s Scott Bain has been recalled to the national team setup after an extended spell away from international duty. Once a regular in Clarke’s early squads, Bain had fallen down the pecking order due to limited playing time at club level, with Joe Hart occupying the starting spot for Celtic.
However, recent weeks have seen Bain regain form and confidence. Injuries to rival keepers and impressive performances in cup competitions have propelled him back into contention. For Clarke, Bain’s experience and composure offer valuable depth in a position that often defines tight qualifying matches.
“Scott has been patient,” Clarke explained. “He’s trained hard, stayed professional, and when his moment came, he delivered. Having him back gives us more stability and competition in goal.”
While Angus Gunn and Zander Clark remain strong candidates for the starting position, Bain’s inclusion underscores the manager’s belief in the importance of squad balance — a hallmark of his tenure.
Lawrence Shankland A Striker Reborn
Perhaps the most talked-about inclusion is Lawrence Shankland, the Hearts captain who has enjoyed a prolific start to his domestic campaign. With double-digit goals in both league and European fixtures, Shankland’s clinical finishing has reignited debate over Scotland’s attacking options.
After being overlooked for several international windows, Shankland’s recall feels like a well-earned reward. The 29-year-old forward has transformed his game, evolving from a traditional poacher into a more complete striker capable of leading the line and linking play effectively.
“He’s worked on all aspects of his game,” said Clarke. “It’s not just about scoring goals — it’s about how you contribute to the team, how you press, how you connect with others. Lawrence has been exceptional in that regard.”
For Scotland, who have often struggled to convert chances against disciplined defenses, Shankland’s confidence and penalty-box awareness could prove decisive. His potential partnership with Che Adams or Lyndon Dykes adds a new layer of attacking flexibility, giving Clarke tactical variety for both fixtures.
Shankland himself expressed gratitude for the call-up, saying, “Playing for Scotland is always special. I’ve worked hard to get back here, and I’ll give everything to help the team qualify. Every player dreams of representing their country on the world stage.”
Josh Doig The Rising Star from Serie A
One of the most exciting young prospects in Scottish football, Josh Doig continues to make waves in Italy’s Serie A. The 22-year-old left-back, currently playing for Sassuolo after a successful spell at Hellas Verona, has impressed with his composure, athleticism, and attacking instincts.
Doig’s consistent performances against some of Europe’s top attackers have not gone unnoticed. His inclusion marks a clear signal of Clarke’s long-term vision for Scotland’s defensive structure, particularly as veteran left-back Andy Robertson continues to recover from injury.
“Josh has been excellent in Italy,” Clarke noted. “He’s matured quickly, facing high-level opposition week in and week out. This is a good opportunity for him to experience the intensity of World Cup qualifiers and to learn from senior players.”
Doig’s versatility — he can operate as both a full-back and a wing-back — fits perfectly into Scotland’s preferred 3-4-2-1 system. His ability to drive forward, deliver accurate crosses, and track back diligently makes him a valuable asset on either flank.
Former Scotland defender Alan Hutton praised the call-up, saying, “Doig brings energy and confidence. You can see the influence of Italian coaching in his tactical discipline. He’s one for the future — but also ready for the present.”
Ross McCrorie The Utility Player Every Team Needs
Injuries to key midfielders and defenders have opened the door for Ross McCrorie, whose adaptability has made him one of Aberdeen’s standout players in recent seasons. Now plying his trade with Bristol City in the English Championship, McCrorie offers Clarke a multi-purpose option — capable of playing as a right-back, defensive midfielder, or even a center-back in a three-man system.
Clarke has long admired players who can execute multiple roles effectively, and McCrorie embodies that ethos. “Ross gives us flexibility,” the manager said. “He’s physical, intelligent, and reads the game very well. In tournaments and qualifiers, having players who can slot into different positions is invaluable.”
McCrorie’s inclusion also reflects Scotland’s growing pool of players who have tested themselves outside the domestic league — a sign of the national team’s evolving identity. His blend of composure and aggression could prove crucial against technically strong sides like Denmark and Greece.
The Tactical Blueprint Clarke’s Balancing Act
With these call-ups, Steve Clarke faces the delicate task of balancing experimentation with stability. The Scotland boss has typically favored a pragmatic 3-5-2 or 3-4-2-1 formation, built around defensive structure and quick transitions. However, the absence of some regular starters — including Kieran Tierney and Andy Robertson — may force subtle adjustments.
The return of Doig and McCrorie provides fresh options for the wing-back roles, while Shankland’s inclusion could see Scotland adopt a two-striker system in certain phases. Bain’s recall strengthens the goalkeeping department, giving Clarke peace of mind in a position that has occasionally sparked debate.
Against Greece, Scotland are expected to prioritize possession and tempo control, exploiting the flanks to stretch the opposition. The match against Denmark, however, will likely demand compact defending and counter-attacking precision — an area where Shankland’s movement and Doig’s pace could be decisive.
A Squad Blending Experience and Renewal
Clarke’s latest squad reflects his broader philosophy: respect experience, but reward merit. Alongside seasoned campaigners such as John McGinn, Scott McTominay, and Callum McGregor, the introduction of younger and hungry players injects energy and competitiveness into the camp.
“The group is evolving,” Clarke said. “We’re building something sustainable — a team that can compete now but also in the next cycle. Players like Doig and McCrorie represent that future.”
It’s a balancing act that has served Scotland well in recent years. The team’s journey from Euro 2020 heartbreak to Euro 2024 qualification showcased both growth and grit. Now, as they chase a place at the 2026 World Cup, the challenge is to maintain that upward trajectory against increasingly strong European competition.
Opposition Analysis Greece and Denmark
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Greece Tactical Discipline and Defensive Solidity
Greece remain one of Europe’s most tactically disciplined sides. Managed by Gus Poyet, they have built a reputation for compact defending and efficient counter-attacking. Their narrow 4-3-3 system often frustrates opponents, forcing them to rely on width and patience.
For Scotland, breaking down Greece’s defensive block will require creativity from midfielders like McGinn and McTominay, as well as precise delivery from the flanks. Shankland’s penalty-box instincts could be key in capitalizing on limited opportunities.
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Denmark Familiar Foes Unfinished Business
Denmark have become a recurring obstacle in Scotland’s qualification efforts. Under Kasper Hjulmand, they have maintained a high standard of consistency, combining fluid attacking play with disciplined organization. Their key players — Christian Eriksen, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, and Rasmus Højlund — continue to drive the team forward.
Clarke acknowledged the difficulty of the fixture but remained optimistic: “We’ve faced Denmark before. We know their strengths, but we also know how to hurt them. We’ll go into that game with belief and a clear plan.”
Voices from the Camp Unity and Ambition
Inside the Scotland camp, the mood is one of determination rather than pressure. Senior players have welcomed the new inclusions, emphasizing the importance of unity ahead of such pivotal matches.
Captain Andrew Robertson, though still recovering from injury, sent a message of encouragement: “The boys know what’s at stake. Every time we put on that jersey, we play for something bigger than ourselves. I’ve got full faith in the squad Steve’s selected.”
Meanwhile, midfielder John McGinn praised the hunger of the newcomers. “It’s great to see lads like Doig and Shankland back in the setup. They’ve earned it. Competition pushes us all to be better.”
Fan Reaction Optimism and Debate
Scottish fans have greeted the squad announcement with cautious optimism. Social media lit up with praise for Shankland’s inclusion and excitement over Doig’s potential debut. Many supporters view the blend of domestic stalwarts and foreign-based talent as a sign of Scotland’s growing depth.
However, there has also been debate about certain omissions — particularly the absence of Ryan Gauld and Lewis Ferguson, both performing well abroad. Clarke addressed these concerns diplomatically: “Selection is always tough. Every decision is made with the balance of the squad in mind. The door is never closed to anyone performing well.”
The Stakes Beyond Qualification
Beyond the immediate goal of qualifying for the World Cup, these matches hold symbolic significance for Scotland’s footballing identity. Under Clarke, the team has rediscovered a sense of belief and consistency that had long eluded previous generations. Competing toe-to-toe with Europe’s elite has become an expectation rather than a dream.
The inclusion of players like Bain, Shankland, Doig, and McCrorie reflects that evolution — proof that Scotland now possesses the infrastructure and talent pool to compete across multiple levels. Every cap, every minute, and every performance contributes to building a legacy for the future.
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