Scotland head coach Steve Clarke has explained his decision to include 18-year-olds James Wilson and Lennon Miller in his latest squad, as the national team prepares for a crucial UEFA Nations League play-off against Greece later this month.
Injuries and call-offs have hit Clarke’s squad hard, particularly in midfield and attack, prompting the former Kilmarnock and West Brom boss to turn to youth.
Both players have impressed at club level this season, with Miller establishing himself as a key player for Motherwell, while Wilson has made headlines for his goalscoring exploits with Hearts.
“A lot of call-offs, a lot of injuries, especially in middle to forward areas,” Clarke acknowledged when discussing the duo’s inclusion.
“I just felt it was a chance to have a look at two young boys, who’ve caught the eye—Lennon certainly over the last 18 months and James over the last six months. Two for the future but also can help us just now.”
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Miller, who made his Scottish Premiership debut at just 16, has continued to develop into one of the country’s most promising young midfielders. Clarke highlighted his intelligence and versatility as key factors in his call-up.
“Lennon plays with a maturity beyond his years,” Clarke said.
“Good qualities - he can play deep in midfield, can play higher midfield, good delivery, box-to-box, good energy. Now we have to see if he can fit in among the group.”
Wilson, meanwhile, has been in fine form for Hearts, with his ability to stretch defences and find the net making him an appealing option for Clarke.
“[James] is someone who catches your eye, runs behind, looks to score goals, which is a great trait,” the Scotland boss added. “We’re always looking for goal scorers.”
With a high-stakes double-header against Greece on the horizon, the pair could get the chance to prove they belong on the international stage sooner rather than later.
Scotland travel to Greece on March 20 before welcoming Ivan Jovanović’s side to Hampden Park three days later.
