Scotland takes on Liechtenstein in a friendly tonight that could potentially have a significant impact on Steve Clarke’s future as Scotland manager. After a disappointing performance against Iceland, Steve Clark has faced pressure from many fans, who believe his style of play is too negative to take Scotland forward.
Clark has previously acknowledged that this upcoming World Cup campaign will most likely be his last. Still, if he were to come away with anything but a win against Liechtenstein, he may struggle to retain his position, especially with the likes of Ange Postecoglou being available after his recent departure from Tottenham, following poor league form. However, Postecoglou did succeed in winning the Europa League, bringing a trophy to Tottenham for the first time in 17 years.
Liechtenstein is currently ranked 205th in the world rankings, with only five teams ranked below them, and having recently lost 3-1 to bottom-ranked San Marino in the last Nations League campaign. Liechtenstein’s previous match was an away game against Wales in World Cup qualifiers, where the home team ran out 3-0 winners, with Liechtenstein managing 0 attempts and having a possession of just 21%.
Scotland will aim to make up for the lacklustre performance on Friday. The current goalie crisis will not be a significant feature of this game, as previously seen, Liechtenstein have very little to offer going forward. Scotland should make a statement tonight and shape up ruthlessly. While saying that, it would be great to see some younger players, such as Lennon Miller and Kerion Bowie, get an opportunity to stake a claim in the starting team for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Especially in the case of Bowie, as the striker position is definitely up for grabs, with none of the candidates providing a consistent threat.
This match is the last friendly before the World Cup qualifiers, and it is vital that Scotland trial any new shapes and personnel now before what looks to be a difficult set of fixtures. This marks the last real chance for the young players to break through, and Clark should grant them the opportunity to do so.
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