Scotland face Croatia in front of a home crowd in their Group D final on Tuesday, hoping to follow in Wales’ footsteps and advance to the second round of Euro 2020.
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Steve Clarke’s side were beaten by the Czech Republic at Hampden Park in their opening despite encouraging an encouraging performance, and although they only managed one point against England on Friday, there was much to suggest they could give the 2018 World Cup finalists a match.
Croatia have not clicked in gear yet in this summer’s tournament but Scotland will be careful about the quality of their squad, so although they should not necessarily be scared, they must show them some respect in this do or die clash.
Here is the side that Scotland can join for this crucial meeting.
Kieran Tierney showed England why he really missed out on Scotland’s Group D opener / Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA / Getty Images
David Marshall (GK) – Recovered well after being occupied by Patrik Schick in Scotland’s opener with a couple of decent stops at Wembley, especially one from Mason Mount during the second period.
Scott McTominay (CB) – Proved that he can play as part of a back three despite some fans expressing their concern in the beginning of the England match. Probably should continue here, although in the absence of Billy Gilmour there may be a temptation to shoot him back to midfield.
Grant Hanley (CB) – Be solid when he met the threat from Harry Kane and there is no doubt that he deserves to keep his place in start XI.
Kieran Tierney (CB) – Having him back this weekend was a huge boost. He missed a lot against the Czechs and Scotland is a much more solid outfit with him in the team.
Stuart Armstrong may return to the side to replace Billy Gilmour / Stu Forster / Getty Images
Stephen O’Donnell (RWB) – Not the most popular figure among Scotland’s fans but motivated his choice on Friday, Luke Shaw caused problems when he came forward and pushed in defensively.
John McGinn (CM) – One of the Premier League’s most underrated players, McGinn gives you work frequency, driving and technical quality.
Stuart Armstrong (CM) – Will probably return to the site to replace Billy Gilmour, who has tested positive for coronavirus.
Callum McGregor (CM) – The Celtic man usually brings a discipline to the midfield that allows those around him, especially McGinn, to move forward and support the forwards.
Andrew Robertson (LWB) – Gets up and down the flank like a steam train. Scotland’s best player and first name of the team magazine.
Che Adams made a good move for Scotland against England on Friday night / Ian MacNicol / Getty Images
Che Adams (ST) – Always buzzing from the front, can do with being a little more clinical in front of the goal, but everything up to that point makes him a valuable inclusion.Lyndon Dykes (ST) – Gives a physical presence to Scotland’s attack but not much else. Useful when it comes to occupying defenders but they have to get bodies in and around him when they go straight to the big man.
