Clarke Shakes Up Scotland Squad with Six Changes
Scotland head coach Steve Clarke has unveiled a refreshed 26-man squad for June’s friendlies against Iceland and Liechtenstein, blending experience with exciting new faces. The Babu88 sports team analyzes how these tactical adjustments could shape Scotland’s World Cup qualifying campaign later this year.
Goalkeeper Shakeup: Gunn Returns as Free Agent
With veteran keepers Craig Gordon (Hearts) and Liam Kelly (Rangers) sidelined, 29-year-old Angus Gunn makes a timely return after recovering from injury. The former Norwich City shot-stopper enters camp as a free agent, creating an intriguing subplot.
Defensive Reinforcements
Sassuolo’s Josh Doig earns his maiden call-up at left-back, replacing Watford’s Ryan Porteous. The 22-year-old Serie A defender brings continental experience to a backline featuring familiar names like Andy Robertson and Kieran Tierney.
Babu88 insider Mark Thompson notes: “Doig’s inclusion suggests Clarke wants more tactical flexibility. His ability to play center-back in a three-man system could be crucial for World Cup qualifiers.”
Midfield Revolution
Rangers’ Connor Barron and West Ham’s Andy Irving inject fresh energy into midfield, replacing Bournemouth’s Ryan Christie and Norwich’s Kenny McLean. Both newcomers possess the box-to-box dynamism Clarke favors in his 3-5-2 system.
Bowie’s Breakthrough Moment
Hibernian striker Kieron Bowie (22) receives his first senior call-up after netting six Premiership goals this season. Clarke revealed to Babu88:
“Kieron’s physicality and movement have impressed me since his U21 days. These friendlies present the perfect platform to test if his attributes translate to international level.”
Bowie’s aerial threat adds a new dimension to Scotland’s attack
Experience Meets Youth in Balanced Selection
Despite six changes, Clarke maintains core leadership with:
- Andy Robertson (Liverpool) fresh from Premier League glory
- Lewis Ferguson (Bologna) riding high after Coppa Italia triumph
- Scott McTominay & Billy Gilmour (both Napoli) potentially arriving as Serie A champions
Youth prospects like Motherwell’s Lennon Miller (18) and Hearts’ James Wilson (18) retain their spots, signaling Clarke’s long-term vision. As Babu88 pundit Sarah Williamson observes:
“This squad perfectly balances tournament experience with emerging talent. The friendlies will reveal if Clarke can mold them into a cohesive unit before crucial World Cup qualifiers.”
Tactical Preview: What to Watch Against Iceland
- High Press Test: Iceland’s physical style will challenge Scotland’s new midfield trio
- Wingback Chemistry: Doig’s link-up with Robertson could define attacking width
- Striker Rotation: Will Bowie get minutes alongside Che Adams?
Clarke’s tactical adjustments will be under microscope this June
Full Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers: Angus Gunn (Unattached), Robby McCrorie (Kilmarnock), Cieran Slicker (Ipswich)
Defenders: Josh Doig (Sassuolo), Grant Hanley (Birmingham), Jack Hendry (Al-Ettifaq), Max Johnston (Sturm Graz), Scott McKenna (Las Palmas), Nathan Patterson (Everton), Anthony Ralston (Celtic), Andy Robertson (Liverpool), John Souttar (Rangers), Kieran Tierney (Arsenal)
Midfielders: Connor Barron (Rangers), Lewis Ferguson (Bologna), Billy Gilmour (Napoli), Andy Irving (West Ham), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Scott McTominay (Napoli), Lennon Miller (Motherwell)
Forwards: Che Adams (Torino), Kieron Bowie (Hibernian), Tommy Conway (Middlesbrough), George Hirst (Ipswich), James Wilson (Hearts)
Upcoming Fixtures: Road to World Cup 2026
- June 6: vs Iceland (Hampden Park) – Friendly
- June 9: @ Liechtenstein (Rheinpark Stadion) – Friendly
- September 5: @ Denmark – WC Qualifier
- September 8: @ Belarus – WC Qualifier
Babu88 predicts: “These friendlies could determine starting spots for September’s crucial qualifiers. Pay special attention to midfield battles and Bowie’s potential debut.”
Will Clarke’s gamble on youth pay off? Share your thoughts below and follow Babu88 for exclusive post-match analysis!
