As the kick-off date of Euro 2024 is coming near, fans are getting more excited to watch Euro 2024, the coveted European football tournament. But unfortunately for Scotland, the excitement has decreased because of the sudden injury of their key player Lyndon Dykes. Now, the team’s manager faces a complicated situation, as it was reported that now Clarke takes ‘two or three days’ to ponder Dykes replacement.
This tournament is extremely crucial for all teams, and they will be trying their best to win it. The same is true for the Scotland team, and therefore, they are taking more time to contemplate the situation. Learn more about it below.
What will be the Impact of Dykes’ Injury on the Scotland team?
Lyndon Dykes is one of the most crucial players in the Scotland team. The fact that he made it to the squad initially is a testament to his talent. He has been part of the team for four years and has scored nine goals in 36 international games. His performance in Euro 2024 would have been very significant for the team’s success and progress.
Advertisement However, now that he is no longer part of the squad, his void needs to be filled. This decision will be made by the manager of the team. He will need to make a strategy to overcome this issue at hand. But it is revealed that Steve Clarke will take ‘two or three days‘ to ponder Dykes replacement.
What are Clarke’s views on Dykes replacement?
Clarke expressed his disappointment at losing Dykes so close to the tournament, acknowledging the forward’s significant contributions over the years.
We are all really disappointed for Lyndon, obviously, The boys that got injured earlier get a little bit more time to get over it. Lyndon’s is right at the last minute before we go to the tournament. And he’s been a good player for us, a pivotal player.
Clarke also knows that Lyndon’s injury is one of the team’s biggest setbacks for this tournament. He is also disappointed in other injuries incurred, but the sudden injury of Lyndon was shocking not only for fans but also for team members.
What are the replacement options Clarke has in mind?
Clarke had a pre-match media conference in Portugal, during which he shared that he has given himself a few days to think about this situation and find the best solution, stating,
I’ve given myself two or three days just to think about it.
The manager also asserted the importance of Lyndon, stating, “There is no like-for-like replacement for Lyndon because he brings his own qualities. I don’t really believe in like-for-like.” Clarke shared that he will try to find qualities like Lyndon’s, and after that, he will decide what to do with the squad and move forward with the tournament.
Right now, the Scotland team and Clarke are facing the major issue of finding a suitable replacement who can fill the void left by Dykes’ absence, even if not directly replicating his style of play. The manager’s hesitance to immediately call up another striker and Clarke takes ‘two or three days’ to ponder Dykes replacement suggests a careful consideration of all available options, both within the current squad and from the Scotland Under-21s.
Potential Replacements of Lyndon Dykes
One possible candidate is Tommy Conway, the Bristol City forward who has been performing well with the Under-21 squad. Conway netted 12 goals for his club in the Sky Bet Championship last season, making him a promising option for Clarke. The manager has previously hinted at looking to the Under-21s for late call-ups, maintaining a connection with the youth team to show there is a pathway to the senior squad.
Possibly, but not necessarily, that’s what I would do. It’s something that we think about all the time. We like to have a connection with the Scottish young team. I like to show there is a pathway to the A squad from the Under-21s. But obviously you have got to consider all options and that’s what I will do.
Liverpool winger Ben Doak, who has played in a central attacking role for Scotland Under-21s, could have been another option. However, his ongoing recovery from a knee injury complicates his inclusion. The 18-year-old’s club campaign ended prematurely in December, and he is still working to regain full fitness.
Final Verdict
Clarke has found himself in a challenging situation as he tries to figure out what decision will be good for the team. The news that Clarke takes ‘two or three days’ to ponder Dykes replacement is a relief to fans that the team is taking the time to sort out the best strategy. Clarke not only has to find a replacement for Dykes but he will also need to manage other injuries and problems within the squad. Despite these challenges, the anticipation for the Scotland matches is at its peak, and fans are optimistic about the team’s performance.