Ryan Gauld's Potential Scotland Call-Up: A Shock for the Tartan Army?
Scotland manager Steve Clarke is considering a surprising call-up for Ryan Gauld, a talented midfielder currently showcasing his skills in the MLS with Vancouver Whitecaps. Gauld, 28, has never earned a cap at the senior international level, despite his impressive performances and the fact that he was once tipped for a bright future in football. He was even overlooked for a spot in Scotland's Euro 2024 squad. However, Clarke seems ready to give Gauld a chance to prove himself in the upcoming Nations League matches against Poland and Portugal.
Clarke's decision to consider Gauld for the upcoming international fixtures comes as a surprise to many, but it is a testament to the player's recent performances in North America. Gauld has been a standout player for Vancouver Whitecaps, demonstrating his exceptional playmaking abilities and consistently contributing to the team's success. His inclusion in the Scotland squad would undoubtedly add a new dimension to the national team's attacking line.
Gauld's Journey: From Dundee United to the MLS
Gauld's football journey began at Dundee United, where his exceptional talent quickly caught the eye of scouts. At just 18 years old, he earned a remarkable £3 million transfer to Sporting Lisbon, showcasing his potential for the highest levels of the game. However, Gauld's time at Sporting Lisbon did not go as planned, and he faced challenges in establishing himself as a key player for the Portuguese club. He subsequently had loan spells at other clubs in Portugal and the Netherlands before finding a home in the MLS with Vancouver Whitecaps in 2019.
Clarke's Decision: A Fresh Look at the Squad
Clarke's decision to consider Gauld for the upcoming Nations League matches could be interpreted as an attempt to refresh his squad. Gauld's creativity and technical prowess could provide Scotland with a unique attacking option. This could be especially valuable in games against strong opponents like Poland and Portugal.
Connor Barron: Another Potential New Face for Scotland
Gauld is not the only new face that might be joining the Scotland squad. Clarke is also considering a call-up for Connor Barron, a young and promising midfielder who recently moved from Aberdeen to Rangers. Barron, a player with great potential and a strong reputation, was on the verge of a call-up for the Euros but just missed out. This time, Clarke might be ready to give him a chance to showcase his talents on the international stage.
A Chance for Gauld and Barron to Prove Themselves
The upcoming Nations League matches present a valuable opportunity for both Gauld and Barron to prove their worth to Clarke. If they seize the opportunity and impress with their performances, they could secure themselves a regular spot in the Scotland squad and contribute to the team's success in future tournaments. This could be a turning point in their respective careers, as they aim to establish themselves as integral parts of the Scotland national team.
The Future is Bright for Scottish Football
The potential inclusion of Gauld and Barron in the Scotland squad represents a fresh and exciting direction for the national team. Their talents and dynamism could inject new energy into the team, enhancing their attacking capabilities and potentially leading them to new heights. With talented players like Gauld and Barron emerging, the future of Scottish football seems bright and full of promise. The upcoming Nations League matches could mark a significant turning point for the team, as they continue to build towards future successes.
