Scotland take on Moldova in the World Cup qualifier on Friday but midfielder Scott McTominay will not be a part of the matchday squad.
The midfielder has been an integral part of Steve Clarke’s side as he’s played in midfield as well as in defence to keep the side’s 2022 World Cup hopes alive. But he will be an absentee for the Moldova clash due to a throat infection.
The manager told the press: “Almost everyone is good. Unfortunately, Scott McTominay has picked up a bit of a throat virus so we have sent Scott home to rest and recuperate and hopefully he will join us again at the weekend.
“I looked at the squad and obviously you can think about calling someone up but we have good cover at centre-back and good cover in midfield.
The Man Utd midfielder will miss Friday's away match against Moldova but could return for Monday's home tie with Denmark.
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) November 11, 2021
“Yes it’s disappointing to lose Scott, but it’s going to be a big chance for someone else to play in the team.”
Scotland have won their previous four matches in this tournament and they need one more win to secure a position in the play-off. And since Moldova are in really poor form, the away side should be able to pick up a win without major issues on Friday.
But having said, Steve Clarke will have to achieve this feat without several key first-team players since apart from Scott McTominay, Ryan Fraser is also out with an injury while Lyndon Dykes and Ryan Christie are unavailable due to a suspension.
Scotland’s next match is against Denmark and Scott McTominay will return for that game but if they can pick up a win on Friday then the Man United midfielder’s services might not even be needed.
