Excitement is building for Scotlnd's Euro 2020 campaign, especially after Wednesday’s impressive 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in the first warm-up friendly for Steve Clarke’s squad.
Not only was it a strong showing against a tournament contender, it was also achieved despite seven players missing the game after John Fleck tested positve for Covid-19.
The midfielder will remain absent for Sunday’s match against Luxembourg, Scotland' s final warm-up contest before the Euros begin, but the six other absentees are returning. Those are goalkeeper David Marshall, Rangers right-back Nathan Patterson, Motherwell’s Stephen O’Donnell, the squad’s leading goalscorer John McGinn, Norwich City centre-back Grant Hanley and the man expected to star in attack, Che Adams.
Many of those would likely have started against the Dutch and with their reserves doing such a fine job, this team selection is going to be a tough one for Clarke. Here’s what we reckon...
1. GK - David Marshall
Craig Gordon got his chance against the Netherlands and now Marshall will be given a 90 minutes before the manager makes his final decision on No.1 for the tournament. Photo: Nikola Krstic - SNS Group
2. DRC - Jack Hendry
Had an excellent game against the Dutch and may just have given Clarke pause for thought on whether to start Scott McTominay in the back three as a result. Expect another look. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
3. DC - Grant Hanley
The rest of the centre-back corps got a run out on Wednesday while Hanley, who is likely to start the tournament, missed out. Barring injury or illness he's almost certain to start. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
4. DLC - Scott McKenna
Kieran Tierney might start to get the preferred back three extra time playing together before the Czech game - but it's more likely he'll be wrapped in cotton wool until then. Photo: Milan Illik - SNS Group