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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

Steve Clarke addresses decision to pick Ben Doak for Scotland's Euro 2024 squad

The inclusion of Ben Doak in the provisional Scotland squad for Euro 2024 has been addressed by Steve Clarke.

The 18-year-old was a surprise pick in the national team head coach's 28-man squad list ahead of the major tournament in Germany.

The winger, who plays for Premier League giants Liverpool, has yet to be capped for the men's A-team.

He has some first-team experience with Liverpool in the cup competitions and Europa League, however, he's yet to have a sustained run in senior football.

It seems he's recovered from a long-term injury lay-off to be included in this summer's tournament in Germany, and Clarke is excited to get a closer look at the current Scotland Under-21 internationalist.

"Ben's got a lot of talent," Clarke told the media. "He catches the eye and his pace will be something we haven't got in abundance.

"He offers something different. He's a young man with a lot to learn, but I've never worked closely with him yet, so it seems the right opportunity to put him in.

"With the squad moving from 23 to 26 I thought it was something I had to do, so let's see how he does."

Of those in the player pool, only two will find themselves not going to Germany - with the final cut set to take place after next month's friendlies against Gibraltar and Finland. The final squad will have 26 players in it.

James Forrest and Ross McCrorie have also received their first call-ups in a significant period, with both Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson out injured, leaving the team short of options at right-wing-back. There is no place for Tino Livramento, who was speculated to have been involved by Clarke.

Four keepers have been called up to the squad, with one expected to drop out before the final call is made next month.

Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack has also been included by Clarke despite the 32-year-old's injury issues during recent months.

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