Scotland in shot at history against Hungary

Shankland clamour

Scotland captain Andy Robertson said on the eve of the tournament that this squad could achieve “legendary status” by going where no team has before in the nation’s history.

Yet, they will have to overcome adversity to do so.

Ryan Porteous remains banned after being sent-off in the 5-1 thrashing dished out by Germany in Munich.

Injury to Kieran Tierney has robbed Clarke of another defender and one of Scotland’s best players.

Despite clamour for more changes, nine of Clarke’s squad have started both games.

He now must decide whether to stick or twist in Stuttgart with a tight turnaround after an energy sapping 90 minutes against the Swiss.

“We have to recover and bring the same energy level and the same tempo and the same aggression as we did against Switzerland,” added McGregor.

Tierney’s injury opens the door for a change of system.

Clarke stumbled upon his preferred 5-4-1 formation to accomodate both the Arsenal left-back and Liverpool’s Robertson in the same side.

A switch to a back four would allow the former West Brom boss to include an extra forward player and make room for Bournemouth’s Ryan Christie alongside the midfield four of McGregor, Billy Gilmour, Scott McTominay and John McGinn.

Many of the estimated 200,000 Tartan Army that have travelled to Germany are also calling for a change up front.

Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland won player of the year awards in Scotland after scoring 31 goals this season.

Yet, he has had barely a few minutes on the pitch in the opening two games as Clarke has opted for the extra mobility offered by Che Adams.

Since taking charge in 2019, Clarke’s loyalty has fostered continuity and a club-like team spirit that has brought his country back to two major tournaments after two decades in the wilderness.

But a bolder approach may now be what Scotland need to change their narrative on the international stage and end an unwanted record.