Souttar has ‘point to prove’ amid Scotland return

John Souttar “has a point to prove” with Scotland after missing out on Euro 2024, says assistant manager John Carver.

The Rangers centre-back is in the Steve Clarke’s set-up for Nations League matches away to Croatia on Saturday and at home to Portugal next Tuesday.

Although the defender was called up for the previous games against Poland and Portugal, he was an unused substitute for both games.

But a lengthy injury list has bolstered Souttar’s chances of featuring in the upcoming double-header.

“We’ve got a number of centre-backs out at the moment,” Carver said.

“And you can see there’s a little glint in his eye because he thinks, ‘I’ve got an opportunity now’, and he wants to put the record straight [after his Euros omission].

“When I first came here, I remember John was in the squad and he did exceptionally well and he wants to get back to that standard again – and he’s playing well for Rangers, which is great.

“Players that are in can use it as an inspiration. Go on, get on with it and see what you can deliver. Because if it was me, I would want to stay in this group.

“I would want to be part of a Nations League game and then eventually the World Cup, so it’s an absolutely fantastic stage for these guys.”