Euros 2024 is set to kick off soon, and the anticipation to watch Euro 2024, especially the Scotland matches, is very high. Scotland friendlies key to ‘stake claim’ for Euros have also increased the hype of their matches. Friendlies against Gibraltar and Finland will be “very important” in terms of fine-tuning the Scotland squad for Euro 2024, says assistant coach John Carver.
Scotland amassed an impressive 17 points from eight qualifying games to finish as runners-up behind Spain. However, Steve Clarke’s side are on a run of seven games without a win and have lost their past five friendlies. Scotland meets Gibraltar in Portugal on Monday and welcomes Finland to Hampden seven days before they kick off the finals against Germany in Munich on 14 June 2024.
Scotland’s Preparation for Euro 2024
Scotland’s preparation for Euro 2024 has entered a critical phase, with two upcoming friendly matches serving as the final opportunities for players to solidify their spots in the squad. According to Euro 2024 fixtures, these matches against Gibraltar and Finland are not just about building momentum, but also about giving fringe players a chance to impress the coaching staff. Assistant coach John Carver emphasized the importance of these games in fine-tuning the squad and addressing any lingering issues before the tournament kicks off.
Let’s not forget, we’ve got two games before we go out to Germany, so they’re going to be very important. Players are going to get time on the pitch, It’s an opportunity for them to stake a claim. We haven’t made a final decision. The majority of the group will play in the two games; it’s about giving them some game time as well. Obviously, we’ve got one or two lads that we need to see play as well and prove their fitness, and we need to get back to winning ways.
John Carver
This sentiment underscores the competitive nature of the squad. Scotland’s recent form, with seven games without a win and five consecutive friendly losses, has raised concerns, but the coaching staff remains optimistic. The team’s striker has also been ruled out. The Scotland friendlies key to ‘stake claim’ for Euros provide a platform to experiment with tactics, formations, and player combinations that could prove decisive in the tournament.
Squad Fitness and Selection Problems
Stuart Armstrong and John Souttar trained separately from the main group on Thursday, while key players like Scott McTominay, Scott McKenna, Greg Taylor, and Ben Doak were absent. Carver noted the squad’s overall good condition but acknowledged the importance of assessing fitness levels and match readiness.
“We’re delighted with everybody who’s turned up in good condition, and we’re quite happy with their progress,” explained Carver. He also addressed concerns about Ryan Jack, who has only played 13 minutes for the Rangers since 10 February. “Ryan’s been fit for a few weeks now. He deserves to be with us because he’s been huge for us.“
The provisional squad contains four goalkeepers—Zander Clark, Craig Gordon, Angus Gunn, and Liam Kelly. However, Carver did not indicate whether all four would make the trip to Germany. “We’ve not really touched on the goalkeeping situation, but we will have the conversation for sure,” he said.
The Case of Ben Doak
One of the most intriguing prospects in the squad is the uncapped Ben Doak. Despite not having played in 2024 and only recently resuming training at Liverpool following knee surgery in December, Carver expressed confidence in the young forward.
“Nothing phases him,” Carver said of the 18-year-old. “He’s fit into the group straight away. It’s like he’s been here for 10 years. If we have to rely on him, we don’t fear that.”
Doak’s inclusion brings a different dimension to Scotland’s attacking options. “He’s different because he has pace. We have a really good team, but we don’t have much pace in the final third. Against the top sides, to try and open something up, he might just do that,” Carver added.
The coaching staff sees Doak as a potential game-changer who could make a significant impact off the bench. “We have adapted the style of play because of the players we have, but he’s different. He could come on with 20 minutes to go and do something special that can get a point for us or three points.”
Building Momentum and Cohesion
The importance of the Scotland friendlies key to ‘stake claim’ for Euros against Gibraltar and Finland cannot be overstated. They provide an opportunity to build momentum and confidence ahead of a challenging group stage in UEFA Euro 2024, where Scotland will face Germany, the tournament hosts, in their opening match.
These matches are also crucial for integrating tactical adjustments and ensuring that all players understand their roles. Steve Clarke’s side has demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline throughout the qualifying campaign, but the recent dip in form necessitates a reassessment and recalibration.
Tactical and Strategic Adjustments
The Scotland friendlies key to ‘stake claim’ for Euros will allow Clarke and his coaching staff to experiment with different tactical setups and player roles. The need to strike a balance between defensive solidity and attacking prowess is paramount, especially considering the caliber of opponents Scotland will face in the tournament.
Clarke’s approach has often been characterized by a pragmatic style, focusing on a solid defensive foundation. However, the inclusion of players like Doak suggests a willingness to introduce more dynamism and unpredictability in the final third. This balance will be critical in unlocking defenses and posing a threat to top-tier teams.
Player Performances and Stake Claims
For players on the fringes of the squad, the friendlies represent the last chance to impress. With the necessity to cut two players from the training squad of 28 following the match against Finland, every performance will be scrutinized.
Players like Ryan Jack, who is returning from injury, will need to prove their fitness and match readiness. Similarly, younger players and those with fewer caps have a golden opportunity to make their case for inclusion. The coaching staff will be looking for not just individual brilliance, but also how well players integrate into the team’s tactical framework.
Summing it Up
Scotland’s friendlies against Gibraltar and Finland are more than just preparatory matches; they are crucial for squad selection, tactical fine-tuning, and building momentum ahead of Euro 2024. The coaching staff, led by Steve Clarke and John Carver, faces significant decisions in the coming weeks, and these matches will provide the final pieces of the puzzle. The road to Germany begins with these crucial matches, where every player has the chance to stake their claim and contribute to Scotland’s ambitions in the tournament.