World Cup Qualifying: Denmark vs Scotland Preview
World Cup Qualifying: Denmark vs Scotland
Venue: Parken, Copenhagen Date: Friday, 5 September Kick-off: 19:45 BST
Coverage: Live coverage available on BBC Scotland, BBC Two, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website and app. Text updates can be followed on the BBC Sport website and app, and listeners can tune in to BBC Radio Scotland and Sounds.
Robertson's New Role Amid Club Challenges
Andy Robertson, Scotland's left-back and Liverpool vice-captain, faces new challenges this season following a self-described "difficult summer." With the arrival of Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth, Robertson appears to have dropped to second choice at Anfield for the first time since joining the club eight years ago.
Having played only 30 minutes in the Premier League this season, the 31-year-old may lack match sharpness ahead of Scotland's crucial World Cup qualifying matches against Denmark and Belarus, which will be broadcast live on the BBC.
"I’ve missed the feeling of playing games," Robertson told BBC Scotland. "I’m used to being a regular starter for so many years, and it’s been a bit difficult with the transition, but I think I’ve dealt with it fairly well."
Scotland's head coach, Steve Clarke, remains unconcerned about Robertson's current situation. Former Everton and Scotland player James McFadden also believes that there won't be significant issues in the short term. However, if Robertson continues to spend more time on the bench than on the pitch, it could pose a problem for both Scotland and their captain.
Scotland's Last Gathering and Future Prospects
During Scotland's last gathering for friendlies against Iceland and Liechtenstein in June, discussions centered around Robertson's future amid Liverpool's pursuit of Kerkez. Some speculated that Robertson, who is in the final year of his contract, might leave Anfield, with several clubs reportedly interested.
Despite the £40 million transfer of the 21-year-old Hungarian international Kerkez, Robertson has chosen to remain at Liverpool and compete for his long-held position. "I thought about what I wanted to do and came to the decision to stay, and I’m happy to be there," he stated. "My heart is still in Liverpool, and we wanted to stay. We’re very settled there and at one of the biggest clubs in the world."
This season, Robertson has seen limited action, with just thirty minutes played in Liverpool's opener against Bournemouth on August 15. Clarke has indicated that Robertson will still get ample playing time as the club competes on multiple fronts, but the lack of minutes follows a challenging previous season marked by mistakes and only one assist in 33 league appearances.
While Robertson has often faced criticism for not replicating his club form for the national team, McFadden believes that his current situation could actually benefit Scotland. "It might work out because you’ve got someone who wants to come in and remind everyone that he should be starting," he said.
Potential Changes in Team Structure
Scotland supporters are calling for a change in tactics, particularly a move away from the back three formation that was implemented to accommodate Robertson and Kieran Tierney. With Tierney unavailable due to injury, Clarke may be forced to adopt a four-man defense, which could better suit Scotland's emerging talents, including winger Ben Gannon-Doak.
McFadden emphasized the importance of integrating Gannon-Doak into the team, as he possesses unique speed and skills that Scotland has been lacking. "We need to get him in the team where he’s best and work out how to fit the team around him," he stated.
This shift may come at the expense of some of Clarke’s trusted players who have helped Scotland reach back-to-back European Championships. Nevertheless, Robertson remains determined to be part of Clarke's plans and is eager to chase Kenny Dalglish’s record of 102 caps. "I’m coming for you," he joked about Dalglish, who responded that many players have claimed the same before but he remains the top man.
As Robertson approaches what could be his final opportunity to qualify for a World Cup, a strong return to form at Anfield will be essential if he aims to prove his critics wrong.