Scotland National Team Faces Injuries for Upcoming Matches

Scotland's national football team will be without key midfielder John McGinn, ruled out for three to four weeks due to a hamstring injury, as they prepare for Nations League matches against Croatia and Portugal. In response, coach Steve Clarke has called up three new players: defenders Nicky Devlin and Liam Lindsay, and midfielder Andy Irving, while veteran goalkeeper Craig Gordon makes a surprising return to the squad. The team has struggled with injuries, with notable absentees including Scott McKenna, Kieran Tierney, and Aaron Hickey, contributing to a winless streak of eight competitive matches. Scotland lost their first two Nations League games last month, suffering late defeats to Poland and Portugal, leaving them with only one win in their last 14 matches. Clarke is looking for a turnaround as the team faces Croatia away on October 12 and hosts Portugal on October 15. The return of experienced players and fresh talent adds a glimmer of hope for the Tartan Army amid ongoing challenges.