'Maybe, maybe not': Denmark issue major sickness update as star men's roles hang in balance against Scotland

Hojlund missed Denmark’s 2-2 draw with Belarus on Saturday alongside defender Joachim Anderson. However, both have travelled to Glasgow and are part of the squad for the winner-takes-all match against Scotland.

Midfielder Andreas Dreyer will miss out after he was left back in Denmark with a bug and while Riemer admitted that the past few days have been testing in terms of illness for his squad, he has full belief that his team can overcome adversity.

“I would be lying if I said if I’ve enjoyed the small bumps we’ve had with illness,” said Riemer. “Every single game we’ve had, there’s been something [injuries, suspensions]. It’s part of the job as a manager. We have a top group, great players. So for me it is not a big thing.”

On specific players, he stated: “Dreyer I had to leave at home. Hojlund was ill and did his own thing [in training]. Maybe he will play 90 minutes, maybe not. We will see.”

Hojlund, who is on loan at Napoli from Manchester United and a clubmate of Scotland talisman Scott McTominay, has been in good form for both the Italians and his national team and is battling with Jonas Wind and Mika Biereth for a place in the starting XI.

Riemer also has a big decision to make over the selection of veteran midfielder Christian Eriksen. Capped 147 times with 46 goals, the 33-year-old Wolfsburg man missed the game against Scotland in Copenhagen and his ingenuity could be vital in such a high-stakes affair.

Eriksen’s chances of facing Scotland

Riemer, however, played it coy on whether he will have a starring role in his team.

“His career speaks for itself, a Danish legend,” said the manager. “But we have a really good squad. We’ve turned into a really good unit - we don’t rely on one player. Every time we have performed with new players. We’re not a team that survives with one star. That for me is a really comforting feeling. I’m sure that tomorrow that will be the case.”

Riemer dismissed any notion that his team may be affected by events against Belarus. “We can’t wait to get out on the pitch,” he continued. “We have amazing respect for our opponent. Steve Clarke has done a very good job. But we have a lot of belief. I expect a game where two teams will go for the win, the big prize.

“I think it’s a team that deserves great respect. The results speak for themselves. But we also think we have a really great team. We know what we are capable. It’s about us going out and performing. It’s all about new experiences. Tomorrow is a massive, massive match for me and the team.”

Riemer expects a raucous Scottish crowd inside a sold-out Hampden but had a message for the Tartan Army. “Not as fired up as us,” the manager smiled.

The Danish players will relish the occasion too. “I’m looking forward to it,” said captain Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. “I’m extra motivated after the draw against Belarus. There are 55,000 people expected. I expect a fantastic stadium and atmosphere.”