Scotland are back in action later this month as they start their World Cup preparations with two friendlies against Japan and the Ivory Coast.
Their first games since the dramatic 4-2 win over Denmark that ended Scotland’s near three decade wait to qualify for the World Cup in November, Steve Clarke’s side will welcome Japan to Hampden Park on Saturday 28 March, before heading to Everton Hill Dickinson Stadium to play former AFCON champions Ivory Coast on Tuesday 31 March as part of their pre-World Cup preparations.
While a host of players are hoping to catch the eye and solidify their places in the 62-year-old head coach’s plans for the summer tournament, others are sweating on their inclusion in the squad due to form, lack of minutes and injury.
Here, the Scotsman look at 10 players sweating over a call-up to the Scotland squad for this month’s friendlies with Japan and the Ivory Coast.
1. George Hirst - Ipswich Town
The big centre-forward recently went nine league games without a goal, but has recovered in recent games, netting in his last two games. He was an unused substitute during the November internationals and may have some concern over his involvement in the March squad, though, with Scotland hopeful Oli McBurnie outscoring him in the EFL Championship. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
2. Anthony Ralston - Celtic
Currently the third choice right-back for Celtic, he has fallen behind both Julian Araujo and Colby Donovan in the pecking order in recent months at Parkhead. He hasn't started a game since the defeat to Rangers in early January, meaning Steve Clarke could opt to leave him out in favour of someone who is playing more regularly. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
3. Liam Kelly - Rangers
The Rangers goalkeeper has made just three starts for the club this season, and is firmly behind Jack Butland. While Clarke showed loyalty to Kelly in similar circumstances, the performances of Jon McCracken, coupled with Zander Clark playing more regularly on loan at Doncaster Rovers, will have him sweating over his place in the squad. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
4. Aaron Hickey - Brentford
The Brentford full-back suffered another hamstring injury in the recent home defeat to Brighton, and has missed their last game against Burnley at the weekend. Head coach Keith Andrews was hopeful it would not be too much longer before he returns, but has now admitted it is likely to be after the international break. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images