Steve Clarke is running out of time to fix Scotland's stale midfield

The 2026 reality check

The 2026 World Cup feels like a lifetime away, but for Steve Clarke, the clock is ticking faster than a sub-par defensive line. We have spent years watching the same core group rotate through the starting eleven, but the Nations League displays proved that loyalty is starting to look like stubbornness. If we want to avoid another group stage exit where we look lost against technically superior sides, the squad needs a radical injection of pace and genuine creativity.

The midfield stagnation

We are still pinning our hopes on the same engine room that struggled to control the tempo against Hungary. Scott McTominay has finally moved to Italy, which is a positive step for his development, but relying on him as our primary goal threat is a systemic failure of our attacking structure. We need players who can actually dictate possession instead of just shuttling the ball sideways under pressure.

Ben Doak is the obvious answer to our lack of individual brilliance. Watching him terrorize defenders in the Championship shows he has the raw agility that our current attackers lack. He needs to be a starter by the time the qualifiers hit full speed. If Clarke keeps leaving him on the bench to prioritize defensive shape, we are effectively choosing a 0-0 draw over a chance to actually win a game.

Defensive gaps and the missing link

The back line remains a mess of aging veterans and players out of position. Grant Hanley has been a warrior for years, but his mobility is now a liability against elite strikers. We need to integrate younger, faster options like Max Johnston before the qualifiers turn into a disaster. If we continue to deploy a conservative three-at-the-back system against teams that aren't even pressing us, we are just inviting pressure that eventually leads to a 95th minute concession.

The lack of a true holding midfielder who can distribute under pressure is why we looked so toothless against Portugal. Billy Gilmour has the vision, but he needs a partner who isn't just there to win tackles. The experiment with Kenny McLean needs to end. It is time to look at players who are actually playing consistent minutes at a high level rather than relying on favorites who haven't evolved their game in three years.

A hard look at the future

If you look at how BBC Sport recently covered the squad depth, the lack of competition for places is glaring. Too many players know they are getting a call-up regardless of their club form. That sets a dangerous precedent. When you have guys like Lawrence Shankland playing his heart out but getting zero service because the midfield is too busy defending, you know your tactical approach is broken.

We need to stop treating this squad like a closed shop. If a player is performing in the Premiership or lower down in England, they deserve a look-in during the next international break. We cannot afford to turn up in 2026 with a roster that relies on the same tired legs that failed us in Germany. Clarke needs to stop coaching for job security and start coaching for a result, even if that means dropping a few household names who simply don't have the legs for international football anymore.