A new dynamic has been added to the rest of the 25/26 season if you’re a Scotland-eligible player - as a race to the World Cup begins.
Steve Clarke’s side secured passage to the tournament in America, Canada and Mexico with a magical 4-2 win over Denmark midweek. Hearts’ Craig Gordon and Lawrence Shankland played their part in victory while Hibs’ Grant Hanley proved a reliable rock at the back as a first World Cup berth since 1998 was clinched.
Now attentions turn to who jet out with the team next year. Head coach Clarke will likely retain the core group of experienced stars who got Scotland there but wildcards in certain positions can’t be totally written off. Here are 13 candidates who could come into thinking.
9. Harvey Barnes (Newcastle United)
Another that'd split opinion purely based on stopping in for the World Cup but Newcastle United winger would add undoubted elite level quality in an area of need. | Getty Images
10. David Watson (Kilmarnock)
Killie midfielder is establishing himself as one of the top flight's brightest prospects and has recently lead the Scotland U21s. Would add quality and show the pathway for youngsters in the system. | SNS Group
11. Liam McFarlane (Hearts)
World Cup duty might not seem like place for trial and error but there's got to be a longer term eye on who comes next in goals, with Craig Gordon turning 43 this season and few others playing regularly at a high level. Hearts stopper is highly-rated playing regularly at Alloa, has been for training with the senior A squad and formed part of U21s camps. Even as third choice, going out with squad could pay dividends long-term, even if he doesn't play. | SNS Group
12. Jon McCracken (Dundee)
Similar to McFarlane, Dundee stopper might not be finished product but he's playing regularly, and that is in short supply at this position. | SNS Group