Friday’s fixture against England would be a decider for Scotland’s Euro 2020 campaign. The English neighbours are coming face to face after four years. 2017 was a sweet memory for Scotland as they secured a 2-2 draw against the strong England side.
However, Gareth Southgate’s men are more equipped with threats now that can cause enough damage to Scotland. The Scottish side entered the competition after 25 years but began the journey with a bitter drink. The 2-0 loss to the Czech Republic cost three points for Steve Clarke and his men. Matchday two will be a retest for Scotland, certainly a tough one as they will be lining up against one of the favourites at Wembley on Friday.
Team News ahead of Scotland vs England :
Arsenal defender Kieren Tierney might return to the backline for the Scots at Wembley. As per reports from BBC, the Gunners full-back is fit for action against England. The Scottish defensive line needs more attention after experiencing threats in the gaps against the Czechs.
Predicted Line-up for Scotland vs England :
Except for the inclusion of Tierney, Steve Clarke would prefer the same lineup for the Friday clash. However, one major change for the Tartan Army might be the introduction of Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour to the lineup. The 20-year-old is waiting for his first appearance in Euro 2020 and the English challenge can serve the purpose for him.
Lyndon Dykes and Che Adams still have something to prove in the frontline with the blessings of Clarke. They were lacking enough supply from the midfield in the last match but can produce something in the England box if they are helped. Sealing a place in the Round of 16 would be a tough challenge for Scotland as they are yet to win their first point in the competition.
What Can Be Expected?
Odds are against Scotland after Matchday 1 of Euro 2020. But Pundits call the easy win for England, a fancy. The Daily Telegraph states that the home turf of Wembley is the winning chip for England.
Raheem Sterling is continuing his form from the club competitions and Wembley will certainly set the mood for him. However, the Manchester City forward told the Official England Podcast that “It’s just another clash” for him. He doesn’t want to rely on past glories and rather take every fixture separately.
The England fixture is a do-or-die game for Scotland. Gareth Southgate’s men are one of the favourites to pick up the trophy. The win against Croatia was from the verge of a goalless draw. Beating Scotland would guarantee a Last 16 spot for the Three Lions.
The big names of the England squad are available for the Friday fixture. Scotland have nothing to lose and will fight with fire and blood for a win. Also, the advantage of Wembley will intensify the tide against the Tartan Army.
Securing a draw at Wembley can be monetised by Steve Clarke’s men in the final Matchday against Croatia at Hampden Park. The Glasgow fixture is on 22nd June but for now, all eyes are on Wembley tonight.
Live Scotland XI:
Marshall, O’Donnell, Robertson, McTominay, Hanley, Tierney, McGinn, McGregor, Dykes, Adams, Gilmour.