Scotland's head coach, Steve Clarke, has made several changes to his squad ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifiers against Greece and Denmark. Falkirk's goalkeeper, Scott Bain, returns to the national team after a hiatus since 2019, stepping in for the injured Angus Gunn. Gunn, who had been the starting goalkeeper in the last four qualifying matches, is sidelined due to a knee injury. Alongside Bain, Clarke's goalkeeping options include the 42-year-old Craig Gordon and Liam Kelly from Rangers.

In attack, Lawrence Shankland from Hearts is back, replacing Kieran Bowie from Hibernian. Shankland has been in excellent form, scoring three goals in his last three matches, contributing to Hearts' leading position in the Scottish Premiership. In defense, Josh Doig from Sassuolo is included after missing out in October, while Ross McCrorie from Bristol City hopes to make his first national team appearance in over a year.

Scotland has already secured a playoff spot, but now faces Greece and Denmark in matches that could be decisive for direct qualification to the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico in 2026. To qualify directly, Scotland likely needs at least a draw in Greece and a win against Denmark in Glasgow.

Journalist's commentary: Scotland stands on the brink of a historic achievement, aiming for their first World Cup appearance since 1998. The key will be whether Clarke's squad can demonstrate stability and determination in these final two qualifying matches.