Less than three weeks remain until Scotland open the 2024 European Championship against host nation Germany in Munich. Steve Clarke will be eager to start the tournament strongly against Julian Nagelsmann’s European superstars as the Scots seek progress from Group A.
Clarke’s starting line-up will generate huge interest as always, but he is not likely to deviate from a tried-and-trusted system using players with plenty experience. If Scotland can get a result against Germany, they will be in a strong position to qualify for the knockout phase for the first time in history. They would first need to negotiate two further group games against Switzerland and Hungary.
Pre-tournament friendly matches against Gibraltar and Finland will influence Clarke’s thoughts to some degree when it comes to his team against the Germans. Our predicted line-up in a 3-4-2-1 formation indicates how Scotland are likely to look in the Allianz Arena on 14 June:
1. GK: Angus Gunn
Clarke's No.1 throughout the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign. Would be a major surprise if he was demoted for the tournament starting. | SNS Group
2. RCB: Jack Hendry
A regular started either on the right or centre of the back three. Knows the system well but will need to be at his very best defensively. | SNS Group
3. CB: Grant Hanley
Only played 10 games for Norwich City this season due to an Achilles injury but is a favourite of the manager. If he is deemed not ready, expect Jack Hendry to shunt into centre-back with Ryan Porteous coming in on the right of the back three. | SNS Group
4. LCB: Kieran Tierney
An automatic starter on the left of defence when fit. Has had some injuries this season but always a strong performer for Scotland. | SNS Group