The first international break of the year is upon us after we felt like we had one every other week at the start of the season.
Celtic have nine stars away on international duty, while there are many staying in Glasgow during the break. With Celtic hampered by injuries, it’s a good opportunity for Brendan Rodgers to get some training into the squad. The manager has also planned a bounce match.
Notably, captain Callum McGregor misses out on Scotland duty for only the second time in six years, and Cameron Carter-Vickers remains after a conversation between Rodgers and USA’s Gregg Berhalter about his injuries this season.
Luis Palma and Liam Scales were initially called up, but dropped out of their respective squads through injury.
Greg Taylor and Anthony Ralston are set to bolster Scotland’s defence in matchups against the Netherlands and Northern Ireland, pivotal games that could serve as a platform for their further involvement in national team affairs.
Alistair Johnston‘s call-up for Canada against Trinidad and Tobago marks another milestone for the player.
Matt O’Riley finds himself with another opportunity to impress Denmark’s setup ahead of the Euros, a testament to his form this season.
Daizen Maeda represents Japan in a unique double-header against North Korea.
Adam Idah‘s call-up for Ireland against Belgium and Switzerland is a chance for him to stake a claim at the international level, while Hyunjun Yang and Odin Thiago Holm‘s involvement in U-23 and U-21 teams, respectively.
Paulo Bernardo is involved yet again with Portugal U21s.
