39-year-old Modric ‘motivated by love’ to still represent Croatia

“It’s going to be nice that someone is actually older than me on the pitch.”

At the age of 39, it’s rare for Luka Modric to be able to say that these days.

But it looks set to be the case with Craig Gordon likely to start between the sticks for Scotland against Croatia.

In his last game against Steve Clarke’s side, Modric scored as his side won 3-1 and knocked Scotland out of Euro 2020. It’s a fond memory for the Real Madrid captain.

“The last match against Scotland has excellent memories for all of us,” he said previewing Saturday’s game in Zagreb.

“It was a difficult game against a tough opponent, as it always is against Scotland.

“Their main qualities are passion, toughness and togetherness. It reminds me of Croatian teams, in a way, because you can tell playing for Scotland is a great honour and it has huge importance for the players.”

Many members of the Tartan Army would have been hoping, when the draw was made earlier this year, that the magic midfielder would have retired from the international scene by now… no such luck.

When asked how he’s still pulling on the national team shirt, he said: “It’s a love for football and for Croatia. Playing for the national team is something special, it’s the highest of honours and that’s what motivates me.”