Scotland return to Nations League action for a double-header against Croatia and Portugal this week as they look to halt an alarming run that has resulted in them winning just once in the last 14 games.
With key names such as John McGinn ruled out of the weekend trip to Zagreb, teenage talent Ben Doak is in line for his first international start following his impressive performances on-loan to Middlesbrough in the EFL Championship.
The only player in Clarke’s squad under the age of 20, supporters will have one eye on the Tartan Army’s under-21 side this weekend, with Scot Gemmill’s young Scots able to secure qualification for the under-21 European Championship’s in Slovakia next summer. A win over Belgium could see them end a 28-year exile from major tournament and fans will surely be wondering which next youngster can make the step up to the senior squad.
Here are the 9 players we’re tipping to follow in the footsteps of Doak and make it into the Scotland senior squad in the months to come.
5. Daniel Kelly - Millwall
The 19-year-old midfielder left Celtic to move to Millwall in the summer for a reported fee of £400,000. He's had to be content with a place on the bench at The Den so far, but the talented midfielder been tipped for a big future by Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers, who was disappointed to lose him to the EFL Championship side. | SNS Group
6. David Watson - Kilmarnock
Teenager Watson is one of Scotland's most promising young talents. Won the SWFA young player of the year last term after his impressive season helped Kilmarnock claim an unexpected European spot. He's continued his development into this year and will hope to be chapping on the door of the senior team over the next 12 months. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
7. Aidan Borland - Aston Villa
The former Celtic talent made a strong impression on his Aston Villa debut against Wycombe Wanderers last month and was even likened to Luka Modric in style by the watching fans. Far too soon for a senior call-up, but Borland is another one to watch in the coming months. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
8. Kieron Bowie - Hibs
The striker's big summer move to Hibs has been derailed by a hamstring injury that is set to keep him out until 2025. Upon his arrival at Easter Road, head coach David Gray tipped the 22-year-old to be potential future Scotland number nine and Bowie was showing promising signs prior to his injury. | SNS Group Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group