Scotland’s date with destiny is almost here, with the squad for November’s crucial World Cup qualifying fixtures against Greece and Denmark set to be named on Monday.
Currently sitting level with Denmark on 10 points at the top of qualification Group C, head coach Steve Clarke has a golden opportunity to end Scotland’s near three-decade wait to qualify for the World Cup.
Should the national team navigate a clear path to next summer’s tournament in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, he would also become the first manager in the history of Scotland to take the nation to three major tournaments during his tenure. History awaits.
In the past, Clarke has shown he is not afraid to introduce new faces into the squad, as youngsters Ben Gannon-Doak, Lennon Miller, and Kieron Bowie can attest. While international recalls are also not out of the question, should he feel they are deserved.
But which other Scottish stars have performed well enough to put their name in the frame for Scotland call-ups when the squad gets announced on November 3?
The Scotsman looks at 11 players who Clarke could add to his squad for the mammoth qualifying games against Greece and Denmark in November.
9. Scott Bain - Falkirk
Enjoyed a strong start to the season with Falkirk, and has already prevented 4.22 goals for the newly promoted side, who have benefited from his top-flight experience. Angus Gunn is is a doubt with a knee injury, and backup options Liam Kelly and Craig Gordon have played just one game between them, meaning Bain has cause to hope for an international recall. | (Photo: Alan Harvey/SNS Group) Photo: SNS Group
10. Ryan Gauld - Vancouver Whitecaps
The 29-year-old playmaker has not played for Scotland in over a year due to injury, but has gradually returned to fitness over the last two months and will hope he has done enough to regain a place in the squad for the games against Greece and Denmark next month. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
11. Lawrence Shankland - Hearts
Top of the league, and top of the scoring charts, the Hearts captain is having a fine season. Coming up to a year since his last Scotland cap, Shankland must surely be chapping at the door for a recall ahead of Monday's squad announcement. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group