Gordon Makes Comeback for Scotland in Crucial World Cup Qualifiers

Craig Gordon Returns to Scotland Squad for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers

Veteran goalkeeper Craig Gordon has made a significant comeback to the Scotland national team ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers against Greece and Belarus. At 42 years old, Gordon has not played since early May due to a neck injury but is now back to full fitness, ready to contribute to his team’s efforts on the international stage.

Squad Changes and Key Player Updates

Gordon, who has earned 81 caps for Scotland, steps in to replace Zander Clark from his club team, Hearts. Additionally, two other players, Derby County’s Max Johnston and Blackburn Rovers’ Dominic Hyam, have also been excluded from the roster. The decision comes as Scotland prepares for two pivotal matches, having secured four points so far following a 0-0 draw against Denmark and a 2-0 victory over Belarus in Hungary.

Upcoming Matches at Hampden Park

Scotland will host Greece at Hampden Park on October 9, followed by another home game against Belarus three days later. Both matches will be broadcast live on BBC, presenting an excellent opportunity for fans to support their team in these vital qualifiers.

Greece’s Recent Performance and Historical Context

Greece enters these matches with mixed results, having secured a win against Belarus but falling to Denmark in their last outing. Historically, the Greeks have fond memories of their previous trip to Hampden Park. They overturned a first-leg deficit during a Nations League playoff in March, defeating Scotland with a resounding 3-0 victory, marking Gordon’s last international match.

Notable Omissions from the Squad

Scotland’s head coach Steve Clarke has opted for a streamlined squad for these qualifiers, meaning several key players will not participate. Notably absent are Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland, who has already scored seven goals this season, and Middlesbrough forward Tommy Conway.

• Anthony Ralston has returned to action after missing the last squad, joining Celtic teammate Kieran Tierney.
• Angus Gunn, who recorded two clean sheets recently, has not played for Nottingham Forest since signing this summer.
• Rangers goalkeeper Liam Kelly has only appeared once this season, coming against Alloa Athletic during the Premier Sports Cup.

As the Scotland team gears up for these vital fixtures, the return of Craig Gordon could prove crucial in their quest for World Cup qualification. Fans are eagerly anticipating the action at Hampden Park as the national team looks to build momentum in their qualifying campaign.

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