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Scotland manager Steve Clarke has recalled John Souttar and Kevin Nisbet to his squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers against Norway and Georgia.
Souttar, who has been out of action since January with a knee injury, has returned to training with Rangers and is now fit to play. Nisbet, meanwhile, has been in good form for Hibernian since joining the club in January, scoring 10 goals in 16 appearances.
The two players’ recalls are a boost for Scotland, who are looking to build on their recent good form. The team has won four of their last five matches, including a 2-0 victory over Israel in their last qualifier.
Clarke’s squad also includes the likes of Andy Robertson, Scott McTominay, and John McGinn, who are all in good form for their clubs.
The first qualifier against Norway will be played on September 24 at Hampden Park. The second match against Georgia will be played on September 28 in Tbilisi.
In addition to Souttar and Nisbet, Clarke has also recalled Nathan Patterson, who has been out of action since March with a hamstring injury. Patterson has been in good form for Everton since returning to the club, and he is expected to challenge for a starting place in the Scotland team.
Clarke has also omitted a number of players from his squad, including Ryan Christie, who has been struggling for form for Celtic. Christie has not scored a goal in the Scottish Premiership since February, and he has been criticized for his lack of creativity.
Other players who have been omitted from the squad include Kenny McLean, who has been injured, and Oli McBurnie, who has been out of favor for Sheffield United.
Clarke’s squad is a mix of experienced players and younger players who are looking to break into the team. The manager will be hoping that the team can continue their recent good form and qualify for Euro 2024.
Analysis
The recall of Souttar and Nisbet is a boost for Scotland, as both players are capable of making a significant impact on the team. Souttar is a solid defender who will provide much-needed experience at the back, while Nisbet is a prolific goalscorer who can provide a threat in the final third.
The inclusion of Patterson is also a positive, as he is a talented young player who has the potential to become a key player for Scotland in the future.
The omission of Christie is a surprise, as he is a talented player who has been in good form for Celtic in recent seasons. However, he has not been as effective for Scotland in recent matches, and Clarke may feel that other players are better suited to the role.
Overall, Clarke’s squad is a strong one, and he will be hoping that the team can continue their recent good form and qualify for Euro 2024.
Looking ahead
Scotland’s first qualifier against Norway will be a tough test, as the Norwegians are one of the favorites to qualify for Euro 2024. However, Scotland will be confident of getting a result at Hampden Park, especially if they can get their attacking players firing.
The second match against Georgia will be a more winnable fixture, and Scotland will be looking to secure a victory that will put them in a good position to qualify for Euro 2024.
The team will be hoping to build on their recent good form and continue their progress under Clarke. If they can do that, they will be confident of qualifying for Euro 2024 and making a good impression at the tournament.
