Not exactly what Steve Clarke wanted to see just 24 hours before Scotland’s biggest match of the tournament.
Scotland’s preparations for Friday’s crucial World Cup showdown with Morocco have suffered an unfortunate setback after Scott McKenna appeared to suffer a fresh injury concern.
The Dinamo Zagreb defender missed Scotland’s historic 1-0 victory over Haiti after picking up a calf problem during the build-up to the tournament.
There had been positive signs earlier this week when McKenna returned to training with the squad in Charlotte, raising hopes he could be available for the Morocco clash.
However, those hopes have now been thrown into doubt.
The 29-year-old was absent from Scotland’s final training session in Charlotte on Wednesday afternoon before the squad travelled to Boston for the match.
McKenna was instead spotted on the sidelines as teammates completed preparations for one of the biggest games in recent Scottish football history.
The timing could hardly be worse.
Scotland currently sit top of Group C following their opening victory over Haiti, while Morocco and Brazil played out a 1-1 draw in the group’s other fixture.
A positive result against Morocco would move Steve Clarke’s side a huge step closer to reaching the knockout stages of a major tournament for the first time ever.
McKenna’s absence also creates a selection headache for Clarke.
The defender’s return would have given Scotland the option of switching to a back three against a talented Moroccan side that impressed many observers during their draw with Brazil.
Instead, Clarke may now have to stick with the defensive setup that started against Haiti.
The Scotland boss is expected to provide an update on McKenna’s condition ahead of Friday’s match.
The Bottom Line
A fresh injury concern. A key defender back on the sidelines. And Scotland facing their toughest test of the tournament.
With Morocco up next, Steve Clarke will be hoping Scott McKenna’s latest setback is only a minor one.
