SCOTLAND interim head coach Stuart McLaren says today's Euro 22 qualifier against Cyprus is an opportunity for fringe players to stake a claim for regular starts. The ill-fated Group E campaign concludes on Tuesday when Portugal are the opponents, also in Larnaca because of travel restrictions.
No matter what happens in the double-header, Scotland will remain third in the group. Their chances of finishing top and qualifying automatically for the finals in England – or even going through to the play-offs in second place – ended when they lost 1-0 to Finland (twice) and Portugal.
That led to Shelley Kerr's early departure with Scotland men's under-16 head coach McLaren being drafted in to take charge for the two games. Compounding the problems, the Scottish-based players in his squad haven't played a game since December 13.
The eleven, including a record seven from Rangers and Celtic midfielders Lisa Robertson and Natalie Ross who were recalled after long absences, were due to return from their clubs' winter break when the Scottish FA suspended all women's football. There is still no prospect of a return.
READ MORE: Alan Campbell: All change as Scotland head to Cyprus in surreal circumstances
“We had seven training sessions with the Scottish-based players prior to the rest of the squad meeting up,” McLaren said. “We feel we've got them up to speed as best we possibly can.
“I don't think we'll have any issues with selecting them to go and do a job for the team. It's a really good blend of players with over 100 caps and other ones who can embrace this opportunity and become much more regular starters for their country.
“They've got the potential to do that, no doubt.”
The only game that matters in Group E is in Helsinki today. Finland, managed by former Scotland head coach Anna Signeul, host Portugal. The nations are tied on 16 points – seven more than Scotland – and if either wins they will be guaranteed a place in the finals with a game to go.
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