Scotland is preparing for its fourth participation in a European Championship and its aim is to overcome the group stage for the first time. Although Germany, the host and favorite to advance to the round of 16, got lucky in their group, the fact that the third team has a chance to qualify gives the team led by Steve Clarke more options to make history in the tournament considering that their other rivals are Hungary and Switzerland.
Clarke received some very bad news on Monday as a playmaker Lewis Ferguson one of its most outstanding players, will miss the Eurocup after confirming the serious injury to his right knee (rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament) that he suffered on Saturday in the Serie A match he played in Bologna against Monza.
Hickey, down since October
How to make up for his absence is not just a headache Clarke. The right back position is pending the evolution of the physical condition of some players, mainly Aaron Hickey who is recovering from a hamstring injury sustained on October 28 with Brentford against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Since then Hickey He has not been able to play this season. although at 21 years old he was determined to arrive in time to compete in the Euro Cup. Steven Pressley Brentford’s head of player development, insists the young full-back is “making great progress, he’s really trying.”
Hickey’s recovery became a priority afterward Nathan Patterson He retired injured in the Premier League match he played at Everton, like his compatriot, against Chelsea and at Stamford Bridge (6-0). Toffees coach Sean Dyche He was brought on at half-time but the full-back did not finish the game and was replaced in extra time. The extent of his illness is yet to be determined.
The alternative
Yes Clarke don’t count on Hickey or Patterson for the Euros, his replacement is likely Anthony Ralston, who is the second option on Cetic’s right side.
Scotland will play two friendlies in June against Gibraltar and Finland before making their Euro 2024 debut on the 14th of that month against hosts Germany in the opening match of the tournament.
Source: La Verdad
I’m Rose Herman and I work as an author for Today Times Live. My expertise lies in writing about sports, a passion of mine that has been with me since childhood. As part of my job, I provide comprehensive coverage on everything from football to tennis to golf.
