Bouncing back: Could Craig Gordon make Germany?

By Alexander Cruickshanks

Still going strong: Craig Gordon could play his way into Scotland’s Euros squad (Image: Getty Images)

Steve Clarke has just announced his Scotland squad for the upcoming international break. There are the mainstays like Andy Robertson, Scott McTominay and John McGinn. Then there are the players who are usually there but could finally have a chance at the starting spots. These being Lawrence Shankland and Lewis Ferguson, for instance. But the big one for most Scotland supporters is the return of Hearts goalkeeper Craig Gordon.

Gordon was a regular in the starting lineup for Clarke, but he was unfortunately ruled out for a year due to a horrific double leg break which many thought would end the 41-year-old’s career. However, he made his Hearts return in the back half of 2023, and he played against Morton on Monday night, making some excellent saves as Hearts saw them off to progress to the semi-final of the Scottish Cup.

It’s no secret that Clarke loves Gordon and if he could he him on that plane to Germany. The squad selection suggests that Clarke wants to see where Gordon is at as he is one of four goalies selected in the squad. There’s his Hearts teammate Zander Clark, Angus Gunn and Liam Kelly who has found form recently in the Motherwell goal.

Potentially two Hearts goalkeepers could be on the plane (Image: Getty Images)

This selection for two friendlies is seemingly to give Clarke the chance to evaluate Gordon and see him first-hand. He brings invaluable experience to the side and would be a great character to have in the dressing room when it comes to the Euros.

But there are questions about whether he can return to his old form after his long lay-off combined with his age. This international break is the perfect opportunity to see if he’s up to the task.