Let’s be straight: Scotland aren’t the finished article. There are honest reasons to be proud, but also clear limitations. Some players are solid. A few get talked up as something they’re not. That’s the point of this rant — and it’s coming from someone who follows the team properly.

Where we actually stand

There’s a reliable central spine in midfield that gives us something to build on. McTominay and McGinn do a job and bring energy, but labelling them elite feels like a stretch. That doesn’t make them useless — it just sets expectations. If you expect world-class levels across the pitch you’re going to be disappointed.

Player-by-player, in plain terms

Some names get mentioned time and again and rightly so — Robertson has been brilliant for years, but form dips and age show. Gunn is a decent keeper. Patterson, after limited minutes last season, looks tidy but not a nailed-on starter at the highest level. McKenna and Hendry are okay for the SPL; Ferguson gets plenty of praise, but I don’t see the hype. Doak is a bright spot — a good wee player with potential. Shankland can score in Europe and at home, but at a World Cup the gaps are bigger and the margins smaller.

What actually needs fixed

Truth is, our midfield can paper over cracks. The real problems are at the back and out wide up front. We struggled to create consistent, dangerous wide play and our finishing was shaky. That’s a coaching and selection conversation as much as it’s about personnel. If Doncaster or whoever’s in charge doesn’t address shape, tempo and how we penetrate, little changes on the scoreboard.

I know plenty of fans travel at great expense and do it for the love of the country. I’m one of them. It’s okay to feel gutted after a big tournament, but keep hope sensible. Expectation breeds misery; optimism keeps the pilgrimage fun. Supporters will always back the team — but let’s be honest about where we are and what needs fixed.

Written by Boy blue 4: 7 July 2026

Tags: tactics