Key clashes to shape Hampden game

Published on Friday 10 October 2008 23:24

DAVID WEIR v JOHN CAREW

Weir is set to be drafted into the heart of defence to partner Gary Caldwell in the absence of the suspended Stephen McManus. George Burley has already confirmed the Celtic duo as his preferred partnership but, with 61 appearances for the Scots, veteran defender Weir is a reliable alternative.

At 6ft 6in, Carew is quite literally Norway's biggest threat. The lofty striker has already bagged five goals for Aston Villa this season and has earned widespread plaudits for his work-rate and determination in attack.

SCOTT BROWN v JOHN ARNE RIISE

Brown demonstrated his talent when he was deployed in the holding role against Iceland, almost certainly rubber-stamping his place in the manager's plans. However, the visit of Norway is likely to see the Celtic player return to more familiar territory on the right side of midfield, where he will have an extremely able opponent facing him.

Now plying his trade in Serie A with Roma, Riise is best known for the seven years he spent at Liverpool, making more than 200 appearances for the club. A versatile player, who can play either left midfield or at full-back, he could cause problems for the Scots.

JAMES McFADDEN v BREDE HANGELAND

McFadden may have been dropped for Birmingham's win over QPR but is still likely to be the difference between winning and losing at national level. He claimed the winner in Iceland to hand Scotland their first points of the campaign.

Recently appointed captain of the national team, Hangeland is an experienced centre-half with almost 50 caps under his belt. After spells in Norway and Denmark, the defender signed for Fulham in January and netted his first goal for the club – the winner against Arsenal in August – suggesting he could also be an attacking threat at set-pieces.