The Scotland XI that should start against Czech Republic in Euro 2020 opener
By Ross Jackson
It's incredible to think of the amount of Scotland fans who've never experienced the joy of seeing their side play at a major international tournament - when we say 'joy' we obviously mean pain, misery and disappointment - much like England, then.
Steve Clarke's side qualified for Euro 2020 via the play-offs courtesy of David Marshall's penalty save in the shootout against Serbia, and qualification from Group D is by no means an impossibility.
If the Scots are to make it through to the knockout rounds, a good start to their campaign is a must and their clash against the Czech Republic on Monday represents a golden opportunity to pick up some points.
It's been 23 years in the waiting, but here's the Scotland lineup that could start at a major international tournament...
Scotland predicted lineup vs Czech Republic - Euro 2020
1. Goalkeeper & Defenders
David Marshall (GK) - It would be criminal for Marshall not to start really after his shootout heroics against Serbia. Even at the grand old age of 36 he's capable of producing match-winning performances and will be key to his side's chances.
Jack Hendry (CB) - Has done brilliantly to work his way back into contention and could be rewarded with a start after his fine season in Belgium.
Grant Hanley (CB) - Another who hasn't been a fixture in the national team over the past couple of years. Looked solid against Luxembourg last time out and should have done enough to book his starting place.
Kieran Tierney (CB) - Clarke had to do something to incorporate both Kieran Tierney and Andy Robertson, and the solution seems to be the Arsenal man moving inside to play on the left of a back three.
2. Wing-Backs & Midfielders
Stephen O'Donnell (RWB) - Started last time out against Luxembourg in what looked to be close to Scotland's strongest starting XI. Clarke will be hoping the Motherwell man can give his team some balance by mirroring the bombarding runs of Robertson on the opposite flank.
Scott McTominay (CM) - Has filled in a centre-back for his country on occasions but looks much more effective in the centre of the field where he can drive his team forward.
John McGinn (CM) - None of Scotland's forward options are what you would call prolific and so the Aston Villa man will be expected to support that attack and try to pick up any loose balls around the edge of the box.
Callum McGregor (CM) - Billy Gilmour could be given the nod but for a first game at a major tournament, you'd fancy Clarke to opt for a more experienced head.
Andy Robertson (LWB) - It goes without saying how key Robertson will be to his side's chances of progressing. Unquestionably one of the best left-backs in Europe, if not the best.
3. Forwards
Lyndon Dykes (ST) - Did well to notch double figures last season in a poor Queens Park Rangers team and has proven to be a handful for defenders even when he's not scoring.
Che Adams (ST) - So often the understudy at club level but for Scotland he's likely to be their biggest goal threat. Will need to be clinical when chances do come his way.