Scotland’s World Cup qualification campaign has been one of the shortest in memory at just 74 days, but could end up being one of the most glorious in a generation if they are able to secure maximum points against Greece and Denmark next month.
With a golden opportunity to qualify for their first World Cup since 1998 on the horizon, Clarke is expected to name his Scotland squad for the qualifying fixtures at Hampden Park on Monday, and several players will be sweating on their inclusion for the crunch double header.
Already on 10 points from their opening four games and second behind group leaders Denmark only on goal difference, the October internationals against Greece and Belarus saw his side pick up maximum points and secure a place in at least the World Cup playoffs.
However, with another two wins, Scotland could go one better and seal automatic qualification for next summer’s tournament in the USA, Mexico, and Canada - an opportunity they want to grasp with both hands. Sadly for the Scotland boss, he does have some injury concerns ahead of the game, while others may return to the squad ahead of others who are out of form.
But how will his squad for the potentially history-defining World Cup qualifiers look? And whose squad place is in doubt?
Ahead of the games with Greece and Denmark in November, we look at the 11 players who could miss out on Scotland call-ups.
9. Lennon Miller - Udinese
The golden boy of Scottish football, it seems unlikely that the teenage midfielder will be left out of the squad. That said, he's only played 22 minutes of football in the last month and is lacking in match fitness. | SNS Group Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
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10. Aaron Hickey - Brentford
The Brentford full-back hasn't played since picking up an injury in the 3-1 win over Greece, but has returned to full training with Brentford, so should be available to be named in the squad if he comes through the weekend game against Crystal Palace without any reaction. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
11. Craig Gordon - Hearts
Considering the doubt surrounding regular number one Gunn, the experienced stopper may be needed for the crucial double-header. However, should Gunn make the squad and overcome injury, Gordon may be one of the goalkeepers to miss out, with the 42-year-old having not played a single minute of football this season. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group