Seven years, seven stalwarts: The players who grew with Clarke
When Steve Clarke sat down to name his first Scotland squad in May 2019, 27 players reported for duty ahead of Euro 2020 qualifiers against Cyprus and Belgium. The hope was a new dawn, an end to the barren major tournament runs that had plagued the national team. Seven years later, ahead of Scotland’s first men’s FIFA World Cup 2026 appearance in 28 years, only seven of that original group remain under the head coach. These are the players who have survived the cull, evolved with the system, and will now carry the nation’s hopes in the United States.
The Magnificent Seven
Andrew Robertson – The captain fantastic
The buzz of a debut call-up is long gone for the Liverpool left-back, who has since become Scotland’s on-field leader and record appearance-maker among defenders. Clarke’s system leans heavily on Robertson’s lung-busting overlaps and delivery from wide – and his maturity in 2026 means he is as influential in the dressing room as he is on the pitch.
Kieran Tierney – The versatile warrior
Deployed at left centre-back in Clarke’s favoured three-at-the-back, the Arsenal man’s ability to carry the ball and defend one-on-one makes him irreplaceable. Injuries have been a recurring theme, but when fit, Tierney remains one of the first names on the teamsheet – just as he was in 2019.
John McGinn – The heartbeat of midfield
Back then he was a Hibernian star; now he is a Aston Villa vice-captain with over 70 caps. McGinn’s energy, late runs into the box, and ability to press from the front have made him indispensable. He epitomises the aggressive, front-foot approach Clarke wanted from day one.
Scott McTominay – The goalscoring number eight
McTominay’s transformation from a deep-lying Manchester United midfielder to a Napoli goal threat has mirrored Scotland’s rise. He finished as top scorer in Euro 2024 qualifying and his physical presence in both boxes is a key reason Clarke kept faith. At 29, he is entering his prime in this tournament.
Callum McGregor – The metronome
The Celtic captain has been the constant in midfield, rarely grabbing headlines but always setting the tempo. His composure in possession and tactical intelligence allow others to flourish. From European nights at Parkhead to World Cup stadiums, McGregor’s reliability has never wavered.
Grant Hanley – The defensive rock
One of the squad’s older heads at 34, Hanley’s experience in the heart of defence provides a calming influence. The Norwich City centre-back remains a dominant aerial presence and an organiser, traits that were apparent even in that first camp seven years ago.
Scott McKenna – The left-sided glue
McKenna was a young Aberdeen defender when he got the call; now he is a Nottingham Forest regular and a natural fit in Clarke’s back three. His pace and physicality complement Tierney and Hanley, and at 29 he represents the bridge between the old guard and the next generation.
Key Takeaways
- Only seven players from Clarke’s original 27-man squad in June 2019 have made it to World Cup 2026.
- The survivors reflect the core of Scotland’s successful era: full-backs Robertson and Tierney, midfield trio McGinn, McTominay, and McGregor, plus defenders Hanley and McKenna.
- Their longevity highlights Clarke’s trust in a settled spine formed through years of competitive European qualifiers and Nations League campaigns.
- Each player has evolved – McTominay as a scorer, McGinn as a leader – demonstrating how the squad has matured together.
Quick Facts
Original squad size: 27
Survivors at 2026 World Cup: 7
Clarke’s tenure: Appointed May 2019, first major tournament Euro 2020
World Cup drought: Scotland last appeared in 1998; this is their first in 28 years
Captain: Andrew Robertson – the only unchanged leader from the original squad
