TWO Scotland stars showed Steve Clarke exactly why they could be pivotal players for the country at Euro 2024.
The problem is, neither of them play right-back.
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Clarke could potentially be without BOTH of his usual starters in the position when the time comes to fly to Germany this summer.
Brentford ace Aaron Hickey was already ‘touch and go’ for the Euros and last night Everton full-back Nathan Patterson joined him on the injury list.
It means Clarke could be forced to turn to Celtic back-up Anthony Ralston or give Motherwell defender Stephen O’Donnell a recall for the first time in over TWO years.
The defensive fitness worries added to Lewis Ferguson’s tale of woe after he picked up an ACL injury, whilst Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack continues to fight his way back to fitness for both club and country.
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But in better news, striker Che Adams and playmaker Stuart Armstrong both shone for Southampton tonight.
Russell Martin’s promotion-chasers beat Preston 3-0 at St Mary’s thanks to goals from the pair.
Adams bagged a first half double before Armstrong struck in the 33rd minute to put Saints beyond reach.
The Tartan Army noticed their exploits and are hoping their form stays true ahead of the Euros.
One fan said: “Che Adams with two goals and Stuart Armstrong with one as Southampton go 3-0 up on Preston. Scottish footballers performing on the big stage tonight.”
Another punter said: “Che Adams double and Armstrong also on the scoresheet – both flying at present. Wonder if either can play right back this summer.”
A third said simply: “Che Adams clinical.”
Armstrong’s strike was arguably the pick of the bunch as he ghosted into a good position at the edge of the penalty area, was alert to a poor Preston clearance and then wrong-footed the goalkeeper from 20 yards to curl the ball into the corner of the net.
Adams’ two goals were finishing touches to neat build-up play from Saints, and marked his 100th and 101st senior goals.
The Southampton social media team recognised their contributions too.
Their official Twitter (X) account posted: “These two tonight…” alongside an emoji of a chef to intimate the duo were ‘cooking‘.
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