Scotland Faces Challenges Ahead of Euro 2024 Opener Against Germany

Scotland is gearing up for a tough start to their Euro 2024 campaign as they face host nation Germany in the tournament's opening game on June 14 in Munich. However, the Scottish squad is grappling with a series of setbacks, particularly in the right-back position and midfield.

Coach Steve Clarke unveiled a provisional 28-man squad on Wednesday, notably absenting injured right-backs Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson, along with midfielder Lewis Ferguson. Ferguson, captain of Bologna and acclaimed as the best midfielder in the Italian league this season, is sidelined after undergoing knee surgery last month.

Despite these challenges, the squad comprises notable selections, including 41-year-old goalkeeper Craig Gordon, who recently returned from a year-long absence due to a double leg break. Additionally, uncapped 18-year-old Liverpool forward Ben Doak has made the cut, despite not having played since December.

Scotland's striking options primarily rely on Lyndon Dykes and Che Adams, both of whom have plied their trade in England's second tier this season. The team, which secured an impressive victory against Spain in the qualifiers, will also face Hungary and Switzerland in subsequent group stage matches.

It's worth noting that Scotland has historically struggled to progress beyond the group stage in major tournaments, having failed to do so in their previous 11 appearances.