Scotland Squad Announced: New Faces like Ben Doak & Ryan Gauld for Nations League Matches

Scotland's Squad Announcement for Upcoming Nations League Matches

Scotland head coach Steve Clarke has made headlines with the announcement of his squad for the upcoming Nations League matches against Poland and Portugal. The squad features promising new talents as well as returning players who are eager to make their mark.

New Faces in the Team

This time around, four uncapped players have been selected, adding excitement and fresh energy to the squad. These players include:

• Ben Doak (Liverpool) - A talented young midfielder, Doak is set to showcase his abilities on an international stage.
• Ryan Gauld (Vancouver Whitecaps) - Known for his creativity and skill, Gauld joins the squad looking to impress.
• Max Johnston (SK Sturm Graz) - A promising defender, Johnston has caught Clarke's attention with his performances in Austria.
• Robby McCrorie (Kilmarnock) - Added as back-up to goalkeeper Angus Gunn, McCrorie's inclusion highlights Clarke's focus on building a depth chart.

Returning Players

Alongside the newcomers, two notable players are making a return:

• Lyndon Dykes - The Queens Park Rangers striker missed Euro 2024 due to injury but is back to contribute to the squad.
• John Souttar - The Rangers defender is also back, having missed out in Clarke's prior selections.

Key Absences

Despite the exciting additions, several established players will be absent from the squad:

• Callum McGregor (Celtic) - The captain recently announced his retirement from international football.
• Several players from Germany, including goalkeeper Liam Kelly and defenders Kieran Tierney, Jack Hendry, and others.
• Midfielders Stuart Armstrong and Ryan Jack are also not included.

Coaching Changes

In a strategic move, Clarke has welcomed Alan Irvine to his coaching team, replacing James Morrison, who served for 14 months. Irvine's extensive background, including stints at clubs like Norwich City and West Brom, positions him well to assist Clarke in preparing the squad.

Full Scotland Squad Details

Here's a complete look at the players selected:

• Goalkeepers: Zander Clark (Heart of Midlothian), Angus Gunn (Norwich City), Robby McCrorie (Kilmarnock).
• Defenders: Grant Hanley (Norwich City), Max Johnston (SK Sturm Graz), Scott McKenna (UD Las Palmas), Ryan Porteous (Watford), Anthony Ralston (Celtic), Andrew Robertson (Liverpool), John Souttar (Rangers), Greg Taylor (Celtic).
• Midfielders: Ryan Christie (AFC Bournemouth), Ben Doak (Liverpool), James Forrest (Celtic), Ryan Gauld (Vancouver Whitecaps), Billy Gilmour (Brighton & Hove Albion FC), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Kenny McLean (Norwich City), Scott McTominay (Manchester United), Lewis Morgan (New York Red Bulls).
• Forwards: Che Adams (Torino), Tommy Conway (Middlesborough), Lyndon Dykes (Queens Park Rangers), Lawrence Shankland (Heart of Midlothian).

Upcoming Fixtures

Scotland's fixtures in the Nations League are scheduled as follows:

• Poland (h) - September 5
• Portugal (a) - September 8
• Croatia (a) - October 12
• Portugal (h) - October 15
• Croatia (h) - November 15
• Poland (a) - November 18

Stay tuned for more updates on Scotland's international journey and the performance of the new squad members!