Scotland Faces Key Nations League Matches with Several Withdrawals

Scotland’s preparations for their upcoming Nations League matches against Poland and Portugal have been disrupted by the withdrawal of key players, including striker Che Adams, and Celtic duo James Forrest and Greg Taylor. Rangers midfielder Connor Barron has been handed his first senior call-up as part of the squad reshuffle.

Adams, who played a significant role in Scotland’s Euro 2024 campaign and recently moved to Torino in Serie A, has pulled out after scoring one goal in four appearances for his new club. His absence leaves manager Steve Clarke with Lyndon Dykes, Tommy Conway, and Lawrence Shankland as the main striking options.

Joining Adams on the sidelines are goalkeeper Robby McCrorie, Forrest, and Taylor. In response, Clarke has called up Barron and Sassuolo left-back Josh Doig from the under-21 squad, while Dundee goalkeeper Jon McCracken replaces McCrorie.

Barron, who recently transferred from Aberdeen to Rangers and has been a regular starter for his new club, is set to make his senior debut along with Doig, as Scotland prepares to face Poland on Thursday night before traveling to Portugal on Sunday.

Scotland Squad:

• Goalkeepers: Angus Gunn (Norwich City), Zander Clark (Hearts), Jon McCracken (Dundee)
• Defenders: Anthony Ralston (Celtic), Max Johnston (Sturm Graz), Grant Hanley (Norwich City), Ryan Porteous (Watford), Scott McKenna (Las Palmas), John Souttar (Rangers), Andy Robertson (Liverpool), Josh Doig (Sassuolo)
• Midfielders: Ryan Christie (Bournemouth), Ryan Gauld (Vancouver Whitecaps), Billy Gilmour (Napoli), Kenny McLean (Norwich City), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Scott McTominay (Napoli), Connor Barron (Rangers)
• Forwards: Ben Doak (Middlesbrough), Lewis Morgan (New York Red Bulls), Lawrence Shankland (Hearts), Lyndon Dykes (Birmingham City), Tommy Conway (Middlesbrough)