Ally McCoist believes that Steve Clarke’s missed opportunity at the Euros was not giving enough playing time to Lawrence Shankland. The talented Hearts striker scored an impressive 30 goals for his club last season and earned a spot on the national team. Despite his proven goal-scoring ability, Che Adams was chosen to start in all three group games while Shankland was left on the sidelines, only making brief appearances when the team needed to chase the game.
McCoist expressed his frustration at the lack of minutes given to Shankland, noting that he looked dangerous when he did get the chance to play, particularly against Hungary. The former striker suggested that this decision would be a regret that lingered for a long time, as Shankland could have provided the much-needed goal threat that Scotland has been lacking for years.
In response to a message from a Celtic supporter lamenting the absence of a striker like McCoist, the Scotland legend agreed that the team lacked quality in the final third. He pointed out that top teams have players who can make a difference in wide areas by going past defenders, something that Scotland was missing.
McCoist and talkSPORT host Jeff Stelling both agreed that Shankland should have been given more playing time, especially in crucial moments when Scotland needed a goal. The Ibrox hero emphasized Shankland’s ability as a natural goal scorer and believed that his inclusion alongside Adams could have made a significant difference for the team.
