Scotland's Euro 2024 Journey Begins: Clarke's Plan for Progress

Scotland’s objective in Euro 2024 Group A is to enter their final game with a shot at progressing. They commence against hosts Germany in Munich on Friday, followed by matches against Switzerland on June 19 and Hungary on June 23. Historically, Scotland has never advanced past the group stage in major tournaments, garnering just one point from three matches in the delayed Euro 2020. Manager Steve Clarke emphasized the need for four points to ensure progression, stating that three points with a zero goal difference could also suffice.

He stressed the importance of taking each game independently to maintain competitiveness and realistic prospects of qualification. Reflecting on past experiences, Clarke recalled the necessity of achieving at least a draw against England in the previous tournament which positioned them for a potential qualification in the subsequent game against Croatia. Clarke aims for a similar scenario against Hungary in the final fixture. With 25 victories in 55 matches as Scotland’s manager, Clarke has a solid grasp of his starting lineup for the opener in Munich.

While he deliberates over two positions, Clarke plans to finalize decisions in the coming days. Captain Andy Robertson and Lawrence Shankland returned to training after minor setbacks while Kenny McLean rejoined the group after missing the initial session. Stuart Armstrong has fully recovered, having previously undergone individual fitness work. The only absentee is Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack.