Scotland issued warning for Euro 2024 after Germany struggled as 'secret weapon' identified

Scotland still have what it takes to get out of Group A, despite their embarrassing 5-1 loss to Germany.

That's the view of former Scotland assistant coach and striker James McFadden. The former Everton player said: “They now have to show the best version of themselves. There is still hope and expectation that Scotland can get out of the group. Thanks to the players we have in the team, an early exit would be a real disappointment.

“I think the players and the manager would be really disappointed if we didn't succeed. Before Friday, Steve Clarke hadn't said 'we're going to qualify', but that's what he was talking about. “I think Due to the team's good results recently, especially in qualifying, they need to find a way to qualify.”

Clarke's injured side must now regroup and show character against Switzerland in Cologne on Wednesday before their fate is decided against Hungary in Stuttgart next Sunday. However, the failure to win against Switzerland could potentially leave a mountain for the Tartan Army to climb as they look to reward the faith of the more than 200,000 supporters who made the disastrous trip to Munich.

McFadden believes the experience of Andy Robertson, John McGinn, Scott McTominay and Kieran Tierney will now prove vital if Scotland are to turn the tide. He continued: “I would also put Callum McGregor in the mix, he is the captain of Celtic, an exceptional player, who has won trophy after trophy.

“This group of players is always together, they look to the key players for leadership and advice, but it's a team and a group full of leaders and that's vital. I hope the players use that to do better than they did in the last Euro even if Germany's result is a huge setback.” McFadden also believes Hearts striker and Scottish Premiership player of the season Lawrence Shankland could be a secret weapon.

The 28-year-old has scored 31 goals for club this season and could be worth a move in attack after Che Adams was hooked at half-time against Germany following Ryan Porteous' horror red card. McFadden said: “Shankland came in after an incredible season. Around September the question was 'can he force his way into the team?' and now it's who starts. He's done it beautifully.

“Adams is still the No.1 striker and first choice, but Shankland is definitely a finisher and a goalscorer. Every time Shankland has played he has played very well, his hold-up game and his hold-up game link have been excellent If you give him chances you know he will score goals “Even though we don't have many options, it's still an interesting problem for Steve and I think Tommy Conway could be as well. a wildcard option that will also surprise a few people, if he gets minutes. It could be stronger but we still have some very interesting options.”

Audiences can watch and listen to live coverage of Euro 24 on BBC TV, BBC iPlayer, Radio, BBC Sounds and online.

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