Adams leads the line as Clarke names Scotland team to face Moldova

Steve Clarke has named an experienced team for the crucial World Cup qualifier.

Adams leads the line as Clarke names Scotland team to face Moldova SNS Group

Steve Clarke has named his Scotland side to take on Moldova in their crucial World Cup qualifier, with Che Adams leading the attack in Chisinau.

Scotland go into their penultimate qualifier knowing that three points will guarantee them a place in the play-offs for Qatar 2022.

Clarke’s plans for the important fixture had to be tailored to deal with some notable absences from the squad.

Lydon Dykes, who has scored in the last four games as Scotland went on a winning run, is suspended, as is Ryan Christie.

Grant Hanley is injured, Ryan Fraser withdrew from the squad and Scott McTominay was sent home with a throat infection.

That created opportunity for John Souttar to return to the squad after a long absence, while Jacob Brown was called up for the first time. Both are on the bench for Friday night’s fixture.

The manager has named a strong team to face a side that made life difficult for Scotland before losing 1-0 at Hampden in September.

Craig Gordon starts in goal in Chisinau, with Clarke opting for a back three of Kieran Tierney, Liam Cooper and Jack Hendry.

Billy Gilmour, Callum McGregor and Stuart Armstrong appear to be the midfield trio, with Andy Robertson and Nathan Patterson playing in the full-back positions.

Che Adams is in attack, with John McGinn likely to play an advanced role in support of the striker..

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