With Celtic regularly sending out so many players for international duty, it’s often an opportunity.
An opportunity for the national team managers, of course. And the players themselves. But also for club coaches, scouts, and supporters to see what their players can do. Take, for example, David Turnbull.
After a difficult start to the 21-22 season, following a blistering 20-21, there were doubts as to how Turnbull would adapt to Ange Postecoglou’s faster-paced, positionally fluid new system.
In recent weeks, though, he’s come to life. Alongside Tom Rogic, he’s learned to be more selective with his shots on goal, when to play a killer pass, and generally improved his decision making.
How can he adapt to a different system, with Steve Clarke and his Tartan Army teammates? To be honest, we don’t quite know yet.
Scotland facing Moldova tomorrow, and Turnbull is in tow. A regular for the squads but so rarely on the pitch, it’s time to see what the ex-Motherwell man can really do at international level.
His form dictates he’s well worth a shot. He’s been phenomenal over the last stretch of matches. He scored an absolute belter against Motherwell, set up two goals against Hibernian, and has generally been tidy and progressive on the ball.
Steve Clarke needs to see what Celtic international David Turnbull can do for Scotland
Against Moldova, Scotland are likely to be up against a low block. Typically, they’ve played in a defensive 3-5-2 formation, and are without a win in 5 games; all losses [WhoScored?].
Steve Clarke will be aware that his team sneaked past the Moldovans 1-0 in September. If he wants chance creation from the middle of the park, as well as excellent set-piece delivery, Turnbull might be the best shout.
After all, from corners and free kicks, the Celtic POTY is a considerable threat. It’s also where Scotland can be most dangerous, as the dramatic win over Israel proved.
Moldova are going to be no pushovers, but they simply don’t have the technical ability that Scotland do. Turnbull being unleashed for a start by Steve Clarke could make a big difference, linking the play between the midfield and attack.
Clarke’s side don’t utilise their midfield talents enough. Against the Faroe Islands, despite the quality on the pitch, the performance was poor.
Let’s see what a Celtic star can do in a Scotland shirt. For this game, it feels entirely right.
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