Leigh Griffiths’ international return was denied by Steve Clarke last month as the Scotland boss announced his squad to face Russia and Belgium respectively.
Clarke claimed that it was “too early” for Griff to return to international action (The Scotsman). That’s despite the fact he’s already played eight matches for Celtic this season alone. Granted, he’s come off the bench in four of those matches, but he’s still looked in good shape.
Griffiths has also scored three goals this season, and his general play has looked sharp. But it still apparently wasn’t enough to make the Scotland squad.
Meanwhile, the Tartan Army watched on as Russia bossed a toothless Scots side at Hampden on Friday night. There were many reasons for the defeat, and it can’t be pinned on one area of the team. However, one of the main problems was the lack of an outlet up top.
Clarke decided to start the incredibly over-rated Oli McBurnie. A player with effectively half of Griffiths’ ability if you’re being generous. McBurnie has now played eight times for Scotland at senior level and has hardly come close to scoring.
In reserve, Scotland had Johnny Russell, Matt Phillips, and Steven Naismith respectively. All three also don’t compare to Griffiths. The former two also only have one international goal each.
Leigh Griffiths’ international return must be inevitable
Of course, you can see Clarke’s reasoning. Griffiths himself has consistently stated that he’s not at 100% just yet (Scottish Sun). But even still, what he’s been offering on the park this summer amounts to much more than the likes of McBurnie can provide.
Even when he’s not having his best day, Griffiths is still the best striker Scotland has at its disposal. He may not have scored the winner vs Russia. He may not even have had any clear-cut chances has he played. But what he would’ve provided is an outlet.
Griffiths isn’t the tallest or most powerful striker in world football, but he can hold his own as the lone frontman. Russia’s defence wouldn’t have had the stroll it did on Friday night had Griffiths played. His tenacity and sharpness wouldn’t have allowed them the time they had on the ball. No defence has an easy night when they’re up against the Celtic man.
The thought of now facing Belgium on Monday night with McBurnie up top is a frightening thought.
Again, Griffiths may not have it in him to put the Belgians away by his own, but he makes Scotland a better team. With him in there, Scotland have someone up top they know can score goals. Regardless of how much money McBurnie has gone for, he’s yet to net at all at international level. Confidence from supporters in his ability isn’t there like it is with Griff.
It’s difficult to say Griffiths should definitely be in there without knowing his own personal situation of course. Does he feel ready for international football, for example? But there haven’t been any signs that there’s a case for that.
And, after just one game of our double-header gone, you have to wonder if Clarke is beginning to regret not including the country’s best striker in his squad.
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