Steve Clarke ‘More or Less’ Set on World Cup Squad But Undecided Over Two Key Positions

Scotland head coach Steve Clarke has offered a tantalising glimpse into his thinking ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, revealing that his squad is “more or less” finalised. However, in a press conference that had the Tartan Army leaning forward in their seats, the 61-year-old admitted he remains “undecided” over two specific positions. With the tournament on the horizon, this admission has sparked intense debate among fans and pundits alike. Who will make the cut? And which roles are causing the gaffer sleepless nights?

Clarke’s candid update, delivered with his trademark stoicism, suggests a squad that is 90% locked in. The core of the team—built around the likes of Andy Robertson, Scott McTominay, and John McGinn—is virtually untouchable. Yet, the lingering doubt over two spots highlights the razor-thin margins at the elite level. For a nation that has learned to embrace the drama of qualification, this final selection puzzle could define Scotland’s campaign in North America.

In this analysis, we break down the likely candidates, the tactical implications, and the players who could still force their way into Clarke’s plans. Buckle up—the final countdown has begun.

The Core is Solid: Why Clarke is Confident in 90% of His Squad

Let’s start with what we know. Steve Clarke has built a side defined by resilience, organisation, and a never-say-die spirit. The spine of the team—Angus Gunn in goal, Kieran Tierney and Robertson in defence, McTominay and Callum McGregor in midfield, and Lyndon Dykes or Che Adams up front—has been tested in high-pressure qualifiers against Spain, Norway, and Georgia. These players have delivered.

Clarke’s statement that the squad is “more or less” set suggests he has already mentally pencilled in 21 or 22 names. The remaining two slots are not about fringe players fighting for a seat on the plane; they are about specialist roles that could tip the balance in a knockout tie. Historically, Scotland have suffered from a lack of depth in certain areas, but the current pool of talent is arguably the deepest in a generation.

• Goalkeepers: Gunn is the undisputed No.1, with Zander Clark and Liam Kelly as reliable backups. No debate here.
• Defenders: Robertson, Tierney, Jack Hendry, Grant Hanley, and Ryan Porteous form a solid base. The emergence of Anthony Ralston as a utility option adds flexibility.
• Midfielders: McTominay, McGregor, McGinn, Billy Gilmour, and Ryan Christie are locks. The energy and creativity here are world-class.
• Forwards: Dykes, Adams, and Jacob Brown offer physicality and work rate. Ben Doak’s pace is a wildcard.

So, where are the gaps? Let’s dive into the two positions that have Clarke scratching his head.

Position One: The Creative Playmaker – Who Unlocks Defences?

The first undecided slot revolves around a player who can break down low-block defences. Scotland’s style under Clarke is often pragmatic, relying on set-pieces and transitions. But against elite sides—like Germany or Argentina in the group stage—they will need a moment of individual brilliance. The question is: who provides that spark from the bench or even the starting XI?

Ryan Gauld is the romantic favourite. The Vancouver Whitecaps playmaker has been in scintillating form in MLS, racking up assists and goals with his vision and close control. Gauld has never truly been given a prolonged run in the national team, but his creative numbers are undeniable. However, Clarke has often prioritised tactical discipline over flair, which could count against Gauld.

Another candidate is Lewis Ferguson, the Bologna midfielder who has impressed in Serie A. Ferguson offers a blend of physicality, late runs into the box, and an eye for goal. He is more of a box-to-box threat than a pure creator, but his form has been consistent. Then there’s James Forrest, the Celtic veteran, whose experience and ability to hug the touchline could be invaluable in a tournament setting.

Prediction: Clarke will lean towards a player who can play multiple roles. Ferguson’s versatility—he can operate as a No.8 or a No.10—makes him the frontrunner. Gauld remains a tantalising option, but his defensive work rate might be the deciding factor. Expect Ferguson to edge this battle, with Gauld as a standby if injuries hit.

Position Two: The Defensive Shield – A Specialist Holding Midfielder?

The second unresolved position is arguably more critical. Scotland’s defensive structure relies heavily on the midfield screening the backline. While McTominay and McGregor can do this, they are often asked to push forward. A dedicated holding midfielder could provide the balance needed against counter-attacking teams.

Here, the candidates are fewer but fiercely competitive. Kenny McLean has been a reliable servant, offering experience and a calm head. However, his lack of pace has been exposed at times. David Turnbull is another option, though his best work is further forward. The wildcard is Elliot Anderson, the Newcastle United prospect who recently declared for Scotland. Anderson is a deep-lying playmaker with exceptional vision and composure, but he is still raw at international level.

Clarke’s system often uses a 3-4-1-2 or 5-4-1, which demands the midfielders to cover significant ground. A player like Ryan Jack, if fully fit, would be ideal—but his injury record is a concern. The gaffer may also consider Liam Henderson, the Empoli midfielder who has excelled in Italy’s tactical environment.

• Experience vs. Potential: McLean offers 40+ caps and knows Clarke’s system inside out. Anderson offers a higher ceiling but less tested mettle.
• Defensive Metrics: McLean averages 2.1 tackles per game in the Championship; Anderson averages 1.8 in the Premier League, but with a higher pass completion rate (88% vs. 82%).
• Set-Piece Threat: McLean is a danger from dead balls; Anderson is not yet a regular taker.

Prediction: Clarke will prioritise reliability over risk. McLean is the safe bet, but Anderson’s emergence could force a late change. If Anderson impresses in pre-tournament friendlies, he might snatch the spot. For now, McLean holds the edge, but this is a coin-toss.

Expert Analysis: How These Decisions Could Shape Scotland’s World Cup

The stakes could not be higher. Scotland are drawn in a group with Germany, Argentina, and Cameroon—a brutal test of their credentials. The creative playmaker slot will be vital against Cameroon, where Scotland will likely dominate possession and need to unlock a packed defence. The defensive midfielder role is crucial against Germany and Argentina, who will punish any gaps in transition.

Clarke’s tactical flexibility is his greatest strength. He can switch between a back three and a back four, and the final two selections will determine his plan B. If he opts for Gauld and Anderson, Scotland become more attacking but vulnerable. If he chooses Ferguson and McLean, they gain solidity but risk lacking a game-changer.

Consider the psychological impact on the squad. Players who are told they are “undecided” will be training with everything to prove. This internal competition can raise standards, but it also creates anxiety. Clarke’s man-management will be key—he must ensure the entire squad feels valued, even those who miss the cut.

Strong Conclusion: The Final Verdict

Steve Clarke’s revelation that he is “more or less” set on his World Cup squad is a sign of a coach who trusts his core group. The two undecided positions are not weaknesses; they are opportunities. Whether he chooses the flair of Gauld or the industry of Ferguson, the experience of McLean or the promise of Anderson, Scotland will head to the World Cup with a squad capable of causing an upset.

The Tartan Army has waited decades for moments like this. The final selections will be dissected, debated, and perhaps even criticised. But one thing is certain: under Clarke, Scotland are no longer just happy to be there. They are planning to compete. The next few weeks will reveal whether the gaffer’s gambles pay off—or if the undecided positions become the story of the tournament.

Bold prediction: Scotland will advance from their group for the first time since 1998, and the two players who fill these undecided slots will play defining roles. Watch this space.

Source: Based on news from Sky Sports.