After missing the last camp through a lack of match fitness, it was announced this afternoon that Ryan Fraser has been recalled to the Scotland set-up for the crucial competitive fixtures early next month.
The inclusion of the Newcastle winger will help to make up for the absence of James Forrest, who netted a hat-trick when Scotland met Israel back in November 2018, but this time will miss out with an ankle injury.
Ryan Porteous sees his red-hot start to the season rewarded and may well be given the chance to make his debut for the national team during the three games. The centre-half has been a rock at the back for Hibs with supporters feeling his call-up is more than justified and perhaps even overdue.
Elsewhere, Ryan Jack overcame his injury problems to make the squad. The 28-year old has missed club side Rangers’ last four matches but now appears to have overcome any issues, no doubt a huge boost to Steve Clarke’s plans after the midfielder’s impressive outing against Israel last month.
Scotland are preparing to face three opponents rather than two as is usually the norm.
The first match is the crucial play-off against Israel at Hampden, with Scotland having the chance to earn qualification for a major tournament for the first time since 1998.
But to do so must not only make it past the Israelis next Thursday, but also defeat either Norway or Serbia away from home at a later date. Success in both ties will see Scotland take a place at the delayed Euro 2021 next summer.
Three days after the Israel game Clarke’s side have a UEFA Nations League double header to look forward to, taking on tough opposition in Slovakia and Czechia in quick succession, where they will look to build on the four points gained back at the start of the month.
Featured image credit – Edinburgh Evening News
You must log in to post a comment.