Craig Gordon Returns For Scotland World Cup Qualifiers

Craig Gordon makes a welcome return to Scotland squad

After a challenging period sidelined by a neck injury, Craig Gordon has been recalled to the Scotland national team ahead of their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The veteran goalkeeper, capped 81 times, is expected to bring experience and stability as Scotland prepare to face Greece and Belarus at Hampden Park in October.

Gordon's return is particularly significant given his absence from competitive matches since early May and the fact he has yet to feature in a Hearts squad this season. His recovery and fitness boost provide head coach Steve Clarke with a reliable option between the sticks, replacing Zander Clark in the squad.

Scotland's journey so far in World Cup qualifiers

Scotland have started their qualifying campaign on a positive note, accumulating four points from two fixtures. A goalless draw in Denmark and a solid 2-0 victory over Belarus in Hungary have set the tone for the upcoming home matches.

The upcoming qualifiers against Greece on 9 October and Belarus three days later present opportunities for Scotland to consolidate their position and edge closer to securing a spot in the World Cup. Both fixtures will be broadcast live on the BBC, reflecting the high interest in Scotland’s progress.

Key squad changes and tactical considerations

Coach Steve Clarke has opted for a smaller, more focused squad for these qualifiers. Notably, club-mates Derby County’s Max Johnston and Blackburn Rovers’ Dominic Hyam have been omitted, while Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland, despite his impressive tally of seven goals this season, has not been called up. Middlesbrough forward Tommy Conway is also absent from the squad.

Anthony Ralston's inclusion is a positive development. The Celtic full-back, who withdrew from the previous squad due to injury, returned to club action recently, enhancing the defensive options available. Meanwhile, Angus Gunn, who kept two clean sheets for Scotland earlier in the month, remains in the squad despite limited game time at Nottingham Forest since his summer move. Rangers’ Liam Kelly has had minimal involvement this season but continues to be part of the goalkeeper rotation.

Scotland squad breakdown and player highlights

The squad combines a mix of seasoned internationals and emerging talents across all positions:

• Goalkeepers: Craig Gordon (Heart of Midlothian), Angus Gunn (Nottingham Forest), Liam Kelly (Rangers)
• Defenders: Hanley (Hibernian), Hendry (Al-Etiffaq), Hickey (Brentford), McKenna (Dinamo Zagreb), Ralston (Celtic), Robertson (Liverpool), Souttar (Rangers), Tierney (Celtic)
• Midfielders: Christie (Bournemouth), Ferguson (Bologna), Gannon Doak (Bournemouth), Gilmour (Napoli), McGinn (Aston Villa), McLean (Norwich City), McTominay (Napoli), Miller (Udinese)
• Forwards: Adams (Torino), Bowie (Hibernian), Dykes (Birmingham City), Hirst (Ipswich Town)

This blend offers Clarke tactical flexibility, with players like Andy Robertson and Kieran Tierney providing attacking impetus from the back, while midfielders such as John McGinn and Scott McTominay can control the game's tempo.

Historical context and recent encounters with Greece

Scotland's upcoming fixture against Greece carries added significance due to their recent Nations League encounter earlier this year. In March, Scotland was eliminated after a 3-0 defeat at Hampden Park, overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit. This match marked Craig Gordon’s last international appearance before his injury setback.

Greece's mixed results this campaign, including a win over Belarus and a loss to Denmark, mean they remain a formidable opponent, especially given their confidence from past successes at Hampden. Scotland will be keen to avenge that defeat and secure a positive result in front of home fans.

What this means for Scotland’s World Cup hopes

With the World Cup qualifiers entering a crucial phase, the return of an experienced goalkeeper like Gordon could be pivotal. Stability in defence often underpins successful campaigns, and Gordon's leadership and shot-stopping ability will be key assets.

Moreover, the squad’s current momentum, supported by recent positive results, suggests Scotland are well-positioned to challenge for qualification. Fans will be watching eagerly as the team aims to build on their promising start.

Related insights from the football world

In the broader football landscape, the transfer market continues to influence team dynamics significantly. For example, recent updates on the Premier League and beyond key football transfers September 2025 have highlighted how player movements can impact squad strength and strategy.

Additionally, player power and transfer sagas like those involving Isak and Wissa have sparked wide debate on football’s evolving landscape. Understanding these dynamics provides context for national team selections and player availability, which is relevant as Scotland navigates their World Cup campaign. For further insights, check out our article on the Isak and Wissa transfer saga.

Conclusion: What to watch for in the coming qualifiers

As Scotland prepare to host Greece and Belarus, key factors will include team selection, player fitness, and tactical execution. Craig Gordon’s return adds experience and reassurance in goal, while the rest of the squad will look to maintain the momentum built so far.

Supporters can anticipate competitive fixtures that will test Scotland’s resolve and quality. With live coverage on the BBC, fans across the UK can follow every moment as the national team strives for World Cup qualification.