Scotland manager Sebastien Pocognoli faces several selection dilemmas as he prepares to announce his second squad on Tuesday. Key questions surround the fitness and form of several players, particularly in midfield and defense.
Scott McTominay, who missed Pocognoli's first selection, is expected to be recalled after recovering from minor heart surgery and scoring twice for Napoli. However, Billy Gilmour's playing time has been limited, while Lewis Ferguson of Bologna and Ryan Christie of Bournemouth have been in regular form for their clubs. Aston Villa's John McGinn also remains a strong contender.
In defense, Scott McKenna appears set to miss out due to a knee injury that will sideline him for at least two weeks. Fellow center-back Luis Binks has returned to action for Brondby. Jack Hendry, Stephen Welsh, and Luke Graham are reportedly regular starters, with Graham helping his Championship side maintain clean sheets. Kieran Tierney is back playing for Celtic, though the team's defense has shown vulnerability. Left-back Andy Robertson has started for Tottenham Hotspur but is not always finishing matches. Josh Doig's chances may have been impacted by Sassuolo's recent heavy defeat.
The right-back position remains a concern for Pocognoli, with Celtic's Colby Donaldson being the only regular starter. Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson have been primarily used as substitutes for their respective clubs.
Upfront, Che Adams is in line for a recall after scoring two goals in four games for Torino, while Rangers' Lawrence Shankland is still sidelined by injury. Oli McBurnie has made a case for selection with his first two goals of the season for Hull City, despite the team's winless run. Kieron Bowie, who scored in the win over North Macedonia, has not found the net in five games since. Robbie Ure has scored for Sevilla but has also seen limited minutes, and James Wilson is experiencing a goal drought for Hearts.
Pocognoli may also consider wingers, with Ben Gannon-Doak having started for Bournemouth and Josh McPake impressing for Hearts. Findlay Curtis has also made notable appearances for Rangers.