To think that four-goal first-half performance didn’t even involve John McGinn.
A traditional 4-4-2 brought the best out of Scott McTominay, if that’s even more possible. Although we all know the Napoli star’s position was never in any doubt.
Bologna’s Lewis Ferguson, who captain Robertson said “turned into a man” , externalduring the qualification campaign, again showed his maturity and ability to dictate play in the middle of the park. Cultured, some might say.
But, in truth, the first half was dominated by the work done down the wings by Bournemouth pair Ben Gannon-Doak and Ryan Christie.
Long before he was even in the squad, Gannon-Doak excited supporters. He was the Billy Gilmour of the Euro 2024 team, picking up an injury before the squad jetted off to Germany.
Since then, he’s reminded everyone what they missed with his absence. The epitome of a Duracell Bunny, the 20-year-old dazzled on Saturday.
At times, his end-product has been his downfall, but it wasn’t of concern stateside.
“Ben did himself the power of good today,” Clarke acknowledged. “We know what he can give us.”
Clarke also knows what Christie can provide. In many positions. He was lively down the left, with an instinct to cut in and create.
Many were crying out for Findlay Curtis to start, given his first international goal last weekend, but its hard to make a case for Christie not starting somewhere on Sunday.
It’s perhaps the biggest head-scratcher of them all for Clarke, but what a problem to have.
