Despite impressing at Hampden Park, Scotland ended up losing 2-0 to the Czech Republic on their return to major finals for the first time since 1998. The Tartan Army Patrik were stunned by a Patrik Schick masterclass. Also, Tomáš Vaclík’s brilliance between the sticks restricted the home side from staging a comeback. Steve Clarke must take the blame too for his team selection and lack of ideas.
Meanwhile, a tricky test awaits Scotland on Friday night against high-flying England. The Three Lions scripted a 1-0 win versus Croatia to kickstart their Euro 2020 campaign. This display at Wembley has earned them ‘one of the favourites’ status for winning the Euro 2020 trophy.
Scotland have won only once in their last 11 meetings against the neighbours from the south, that too back in 1999 at Wembley when Don Hutchison scored the solitary goal of the game in a European Championship qualifier. These two sides have met just once at a major tournament (Euro 1996) prior to Friday’s match. England, on that occasion, clinched a commanding 2-0 win thanks to the strikes from Alan Shearer and Paul Gascoigne. Here is The 4th Official’s 3-5-2 predicted Scotland lineup Vs England.
3-5-2 Predicted Scotland Lineup Vs England
Defence
Clarke has mostly played a ‘back three’ since taking charge of his nation. Despite the criticism from the newspapers, he must not alter the same suddenly in such a high-profile encounter. David Marshall’s heroics in the play-off final earned them qualification to Euro 2020, but the Derby County custodian was shaky between the sticks on Monday despite making some crucial stops. He might still have the nightmare of Schick’s goal from halfway down the line. Is it high time to bring in Craig Gordon between the sticks? We at least are in the Gordon camp.
Kieran Tierney remains a major doubt with a calf strain, and the gaffer might once again miss his services, similar to the Czech Republic outing. While the Arsenal man is back in training, it is probably more likely we would see Tierney coming on as an impact substitute if needed. The trio of Jack Hendry, Grant Hanley and Liam Cooper should keep hold of their place in the heart of defence as they had a decent game overall, barring the momentary lapses.
Midfield
Clarke has defended Stephen O’Donnell wholeheartedly for his performance on Monday. However, the Motherwell star is a better fit as a traditional right-back. So, the manager must opt for Nathan Patterson to make the most of the wingback role. The 19-year-old Rangers youngster had a breakthrough campaign during the injury absence of James Tavernier in the latter part of the season. Skipper Andy Robertson has been exquisite from the left. The Liverpool man should keep on causing menace with his lung-busting runs, link-up play and pinpoints crosses.
Scott McTominay needs to take more responsibility from the centre of the pitch. He must screen the backline with more concentration and composure while also contributing in the advanced areas as a ball carrier. Callum McGregor should get the nod ahead of Stuart Armstrong for his experience, work ethics, and versatility. John McGinn is expected to operate from behind the ‘front two’ while staging attacking moves. This is harsh on Billy Gilmour, but unfortunately, keeping in mind the balance of the side, the Chelsea midfielder misses out. Hopefully, Gilmour would have some part to play in the second half.
Read More: 4-3-3 England Predicted Lineup Vs Scotland
Attack
Ryan Christie was not at all comfortable as a supporting striker. Clarke needs to start Che Adams in place of the Celtic star. Lyndon Dykes got denied twice by Vaclík, but the marksman struggled overall with some heavy touches and slow lay-offs. However, Dykes should retain his place for his movements inside the box.
3-5-2 Predicted Scotland Lineup Vs England
